The public is invited to celebrate local music and nature at the virtual “Sourland Mountain Happy Hour.” The first is event is on Thursday, March 4 from 6-7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $10 at www.sourland.org.

Sourland Mountain Spirits will create a bespoke cocktail for the occasion and offer a 20 percent special for Happy Hour participants on all March 3 and March 4 purchases. Founder and CEO Ray Disch says, “The Sourland Mountain has the largest uninterrupted forest in central Jersey. Between the forest, the fields, and the watershed, it provides us with magnificent well water that is the heart and base of all the spirits we make here.”

“We hope to share the spirit of the Mountain Fest with our friends and neighbors while supporting artists and businesses in our community,” says Gery Juleff, Sourland Conservancy trustee. “It’s been a challenging time for all of us. Let’s get together safely and have a little fun!”

The New Jersey Forest Service estimates that over one million trees in the Sourland forest will die within the next few years due to an invasive insect, the emerald ash borer. The Sourland Conservancy is working with volunteers and partners to restore the forest in the region. The first of five public plantings this year – on Earth Day – will be held at Baldpate Mountain in partnership with the Mercer County Park Commission.

“The Sourland Conservancy is partnering with public and private landowners to plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers to support wildlife, protect clean air and water, and sequester carbon,” said Board President Dante DiPirro. “We all appreciate the tireless efforts of the Happy Hour volunteers: Suzanne Parsons, Jennifer Bryson, Cliff Wilson, Gery Juleff, David Vorhees, and Michelle Baker.”

The musical lineup includes a variety of New Jersey favorites. Pat Foran of Lambertville will be features on March 4, followed by Jake Thistle on April 1, AS IS Jazz on May 6, and James Popik & Supernova on June 3. Danny Coleman will emcee all shows.

For more information, visit www.sourland.org.