6 Essential Smith Mountain Lake Winter Events (2025-26)

The holiday season at Smith Mountain Lake is here, bringing festive lights, cozy celebrations and a lineup of can’t-miss events for all ages.

Our Winter SML Events Guide here is just the beginning. For even more, explore our monthly event calendars, which are packed with the best holiday happenings at Smith Mountain Lake.

The easiest way to stay in the loop is to subscribe to the SML Outlook, our free weekly email, and get the top Smith Mountain Lake events delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday all year long.

Experience the magic of Christmas at the 17th annual Festival of Trees, lighting up the Bedford Area Welcome Center. This year’s theme, Small Town Christmas, celebrates the warmth, togetherness and timeless traditions that make the season shine. Stroll among dozens of beautifully decorated trees, each crafted by local businesses and community groups, cast votes for your favorites and help raise funds for local charities. Hours vary.

Experience a dazzling drive-through display at Franklin County Recreation Park. This half-mile loop shines with festive holiday scenes that capture the spirit of the season. Open 5–9 p.m. nightly, the event, sponsored by Franklin County Parks & Recreation, invites guests to tune their car radios to 107.7 FM for a special message and cheerful holiday tunes. Free with donations accepted.

Celebrate the 22nd annual edition of this beloved tradition that fills downtown Rocky Mount with holiday magic. From 4–8 p.m., enjoy a festive evening with an opening ceremony to kick off the holiday season, dancers, live music and plenty of food and craft vendors. The Rocky Mount Train Depot transforms into the North Pole with games, inflatables and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free and fun for all ages.

The Central Virginia Business Coalition will host Bedford’s annual Christmas Parade, winding through the streets of downtown from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festivities continue with the community Christmas tree lighting at 3 p.m., featuring Santa, local vendors, children’s activities, live performances and music. The town’s tree will be lit at 6 p.m. 

Experience the magic of the holidays as Maestro David Stewart Wiley of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra returns to Trinity Ecumenical Parish with guest soprano Adelaide Trombetta. Sponsored by the Smith Mountain Arts Council, Home for the Holidays begins at 7 p.m. and offers an evening of festive favorites to welcome the season.

Enjoy festive tunes with an island flair at the SML Steel Drum Band’s Holiday Concert, held from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Saunders Volunteer Fire Company. The lively performance blends tropical rhythms with holiday favorites, creating a fun and upbeat celebration for all ages. A baked goods sale will benefit the fire company, with additional food and beverages available for purchase.