A benefit to raise funds for the Durango Whitewater Park will be held Sat., Oct. 16, at the Summit. Organizers are hoping to raise $6,000 for regular maintenance on the park this winter. Extra funds will go toward the park’s eventual redesign, slated for 2013.

Saturday’s festivities kick off at 6 p.m. with live music by Mike Madden. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for keg giveaways, courtesy Ska, Carvers and Steamworks. There will also be a silent auction featuring: a kids Jackson kayak; adult kayak; snowcat skiing; hut trip; snowmobile tours; Upper Animas raft trip; and more.

Entertainment for the evening will be rounded out by sets from Cosmic Accident, and Lucy and Friends.

In addition to Saturday night’s festivities, there will be a pre-race downriver event Thursday from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at the 32nd Street put-in. Racers will paddle up the Animas River, around a buoy and back to the start. Entry is $25 and proceeds will be donated to the Durango Whitewater Park fund in the name of the winner. All crafts, including stand-up paddleboards, are welcome.

To donate or for more information, call Aaron Lombardo, 759-2628.