18 Essential Smith Mountain Lake Fall Events (2026)

Cool mornings, uncrowded coves and a calendar packed with festivals, concerts and long-running traditions make autumn one of the most rewarding times of year to be at the lake.

Here are 18 essential events for fall 2026. For a more robust list, including live music each weekend, visit our SML Community Calendar.

Southern rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band take the stage at The Coves Amphitheater, with Franklin County favorites Crawford & Power opening the show. Best known for classics including “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song,” the band helped define the Southern rock sound. Part of The Coves Charity Concert Series benefiting local nonprofits.

Celebrate Smith Mountain Lake’s 60th birthday with live ’50s and ’60s favorites from the SML Boomer Band, dancing, diner-style food, root beer floats and plenty of nostalgia at the SML YMCA. Space is limited so get your tickets for this Sept. 5 event soon!

Kick off Labor Day weekend with an action-packed rodeo at Wind Vineyards. Enjoy professional bull riding, barrel racing and family-friendly entertainment in a lively outdoor setting.

Dine at Smith Mountain Lake restaurants while helping fight hunger across the region. A portion of proceeds benefits Lake Christian Ministries’ food assistance programs. See our full Dine Out to Lift Up guide for participating restaurants and event details.

Get ready for high-flying jumps, roaring engines and plenty of family-friendly excitement as monster trucks take over Wind Vineyards. This adrenaline-fueled event delivers big thrills for kids and adults alike.

Lace up your walking shoes and help make a difference for our neighbors in need. Choose from scenic 5K and 10K routes, walking or running, through SML State Park while raising funds for Lake Christian Ministries.

Downtown Rocky Mount comes alive with live music, arts and crafts vendors, food, family activities and community spirit at Rocky Mount Fest. This tradition showcases the best of Franklin County while offering a full day of entertainment for all ages. See our full Rocky Mount Fest guide for set times.

Sample wines from Virginia and beyond while enjoying live music, food vendors and scenic lake views at Bernard’s Landing. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun afternoon, this annual festival is a fall favorite. Read our Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival Guide for more details.

Tour eight spectacular waterfront homes during the 36th Annual SML Charity Home Tour. This popular event showcases exceptional architecture, interior design and lake living while raising funds for local charities. Attend by car or boat. See our comprehensive Charity Home Tour Guide for previews of all eight homes, details on the organizations they support and more.

Experience an evening of positive energy and feel-good music as Michael Franti takes the stage at The Coves Amphitheater with special guests The Wheeland Brothers. Known for uplifting hits like “Say Hey (I Love You)” and “Sound of Sunshine,” Franti blends reggae, rock, soul and pop into an unforgettable live performance. Part of The Coves Charity Concert Series benefiting local nonprofits.

Southern rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band take the stage at The Coves Acclaimed Americana and bluegrass favorites Trampled by Turtles bring their high-energy live show to The Coves Amphitheater. The band has built a devoted following with crowd favorites like “Wait So Long” and “Alone.” The Last Revel opens the evening. Part of The Coves Charity Concert Series benefiting local nonprofits.

Discover original works by regional artists at the Smith Mountain Arts Council Annual Art Show. Held at Kaleidoscope – The Gathering Place, the exhibition features diverse artwork available for viewing and purchase.

Take in the beauty of autumn at Wind Vineyards while enjoying an exciting rodeo experience. Enjoy bull riding, barrel racing and family-friendly entertainment in a scenic outdoor setting.

Challenge yourself on the scenic trails of Smith Mountain Lake State Park during the Shorefire Trail Races. Choose from a 10K or 25K course featuring expansive lake views and well-maintained trails winding through native forest, with a mix of flat, fast stretches and punchy climbs to keep things interesting.

Usher in the holiday season as decorated boats light up the lake. Watch from shore, reserve a seat aboard the Virginia Dare or enter your own vessel. All are invited to donate non-perishable food and/or monetary donations for the Food for Kids Weekend Pack-A-Sack Program.

One of SML’s favorite fall traditions returns to Bridgewater Plaza. Sample chili, enjoy live music, browse vendors and vote for People’s Choice honors. See our full SML Chili Festival Guide for tickets and parking.

Start Thanksgiving Day with this family-friendly tradition at SML State Park. Enjoy a 5K run/walk and kids’ fun run on a paved course for all ages and abilities. Costumes and festive attire are encouraged. A portion of the proceeds support the work of Friends of SML State Park.

Santa arrives by boat at Bridgewater Marina before heading to SML Coffee House for photos and holiday fun. Families can enjoy festive activities, seasonal treats and special promotions to kick off the Christmas season.