SML Chili Festival: An Insider’s Guide (2026)
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Spice up a fall afternoon with chili tastings, lakeside shopping, live music and friendly competition at Bridgewater Plaza.
Competitive teams decked out in costumes and themed booths will tempt your taste buds with their best chili creations at the annual Smith Mountain Lake Chili Festival, held Nov. 7 at Bridgewater Plaza. This heated, family-friendly competition invites festivalgoers to sample the entries and cast their votes for the People’s Choice and Showmanship awards, while event judges crown the Best Chili of 2026.
2026 SML Chili Festival
The SML Chili Festival is Nov. 7 at Bridgewater Plaza, one of Smith Mountain Lake’s most popular waterfront destinations for dining, shopping and family fun. The festival is organized by the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Vendors offering crafts, gifts and seasonal goods will line the decks, making this a fun opportunity to get a jump on holiday shopping while enjoying one of Smith Mountain Lake’s signature fall events.
The location also makes it easy to turn the festival into a full day at the lake. Before or after the cook-off, linger over lake views, visit the shops or grab a bite at one of Bridgewater Plaza’s many restaurants.
Tickets for the SML Chili Festival are $10 and sold exclusively at the gate. Cash and credit cards will be accepted.
The SML Chili Festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Chili tastings are from noon to 2 p.m. with winners announced at 3 p.m.
Live music will add to the festive fall vibe, including performances by Big Daddy Ray Band and Martin & Kelly.
Arrive early
The festival opens at 11 a.m., and arriving before chili tastings begin gives you time to park, browse the vendors and make a plan before the busiest part of the day.
Use the shuttle
Parking at Bridgewater Plaza is limited, especially during popular events. Take advantage of the free shuttle from Trinity Ecumenical Parish (just two minutes down the road) to avoid circling for a spot.
Bring a little cash
Tickets can be purchased at the gate with cash or credit cards, but cash can come in handy for vendor purchases, food and drinks, tips or quick transactions.
Dress in layers
November weather at Smith Mountain Lake can range from sunny and mild to brisk and breezy, especially near the water. Wear comfy shoes, too.
Pace yourself
Tastings run from noon to 2 p.m., so take your time sampling before casting your vote for People’s Choice.
Come ready to shop
Seasonal vendors and gift booths make this a great event for early holiday shopping.
Make lunch or dinner plans
Chili may be the star of the day, but they are only tastings, not full bowls! Bridgewater Plaza features a number of restaurants where you can grab a full meal.
Take photos
Between the costumed teams, decorated booths, lake views and fall foliage, this is one of those events that’s made for sharing. Be sure to tag #smlinsiders!
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Amy Dye
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Amy has enjoyed countless happy days with friends and family at Smith Mountain Lake. She’s written stories about lake people and places, and put together special event calendars and guides for local publications. Amy’s novel “Moonshine Serenade” pays homage to her Franklin County roots including a chapter devoted to a sweet summer day spent on Smith Mountain Lake.
