A silent auction is a fundraising event where items or experiences are sold to the highest bidder without an auctioneer. Participants place their bids on paper or electronically, often writing down their offers next to the items they want. The auction typically lasts for a set period, and at the end, the highest bid wins the item. Silent auctions are commonly used by charities, schools, and organizations to raise money. Items can range from donated goods, such as artwork and gift baskets, to unique experiences like dinner with a celebrity or vacation packages.