Top Food and Drink Events at Smith Mountain Lake [2025]

Smith Mountain Lake offers a tasty lineup of food and beverage events year-round for those who love to sip, sample and savor. From casual wine tastings and beer dinners to lakeside festivals with barbecue, chili and fine wines, there’s something for every palate.

This is just a sampling of the exciting events at the lake. Be sure to subscribe to our free weekly email newsletter to stay updated on all the latest happenings!

Sip and savor each Friday at SML Fine Wines during their weekly wine tastings. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, explore new selections and discover favorites with friends from 4 to 7 p.m.

Enjoy barbeque tastings, live music, fresh oysters and fun drinks at Portside Grill & Bar. This lakeside cookoff at Virginia Dare Marina starts at noon and benefits Food for Kids. 

Savor local flavor during Virginia’s Blue Ridge Restaurant Week. Enjoy special menus, deals and delicious discoveries while supporting local restaurants all across the region. 

The region’s most popular annual event with tastings of wine, beer, cider and spirits, live music, food and artisan vendors, plus stunning lake views. Held rain or shine, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days at Bernard’s Landing.

Experience craft brews paired with gourmet courses at Jake’s Place. These fun, flavorful evenings feature expert pairings, chef-inspired menus and a laid-back lakeside vibe.

Sharpen your culinary skills with popular chefs Bruno Silva and Lauren Sanders at Tiff’s Lakefront at Mariners Landing. Held on select Sundays in the offseason, they’re your chance to enjoy hands-on instruction, delicious fare, recipes and fun with fellow foodies.

Enjoy chili tastings, live music, artisan vendors and fall foliage at this family-friendly lakeside festival at Bridgewater Plaza. Gates open at 11 a.m., with tastings from noon to 2 p.m.