Ultimate Guide to Smith Mountain Lake Events and Festivals (2025)
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Explore the most popular annual Smith Mountain Lake events and festivals! We’ve curated this handy list so you’ll always be able to find the best things to do at Smith Mountain Lake in 2025.
You may also enjoy: SML Event Guides for every month of the year
Smith Mountain Lake Calendar of Events
This post is updated throughout the year as plans are finalized, so be sure to check back regularly.
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SML Business Expo
April 8, 2025
The 21st annual SML Business Expo features more than 100 local businesses showcasing products and services across home improvement, real estate, health, finance, retail and recreation. Free and open to the public, the event runs from 3 to 7 p.m. inside EastLake Community Church. Don’t miss the chance to connect with professionals and discover what makes the SML business community thrive.
Portside BBQ Battle
April 26, 2025
Sample some of the best barbecue around at this competitive cookoff benefiting Food for Kids Weekend Pack-A-Sack. Held lakeside at Virginia Dare Marina, the event starts at noon and features live music, a car show, grilled oysters and fun drinks at Portside Grill and Bar.
Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon
May 3, 2025
The first triathlon of the year in western Virginia, this SML tradition includes a 750-meter lake swim, 20K bike race and 5K run. Staged at SML State Park, the course features clear water, scenic mountain views and a sandy beach start. With rolling but manageable bike and run courses, it’s perfect for all skill triathlete levels. Participate, volunteer or cheer on the racers.
Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake Cleanup Day
May 3, 2025
Join fellow volunteers for this longtime community initiative to keep the lake clean, safe and looking its best ahead of the busy summer season. Neighborhood groups, businesses, families and civic organizations are all invited to participate at various locations around the lake. Volunteers receive supplies, an appreciation gift and a ticket to a fun post-cleanup celebration at Mango’s Bar & Grill.
Open Mic Competition
MAY 7, 14, 21, 28 and JUNE 5, 12, 19, 2025
Come watch some of the area’s most talented musicians compete at the SML Songwriters Festival Open Mic Competition. This six-week event takes place Wednesday nights on the outdoor stage at Mango’s Bar & Grill, all in support of local children’s charities. Weekly winners will compete in the finale on June 19 for a chance to perform at the SML Wine Festival in September.
SMAC Arts eXpo
May 17, 2025
Learn more about the lake’s vibrant arts scene and how you can get involved at this free event featuring live performances, interactive exhibits and 30-plus booths showcasing a diverse mix of talent. The expo also will include food trucks, face painting and hands-on activities for all ages. Proceeds benefit youth scholarships and SMAC activities.
Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run
May 17, 2025
Not a race, but a game of chance, the Poker Run is your opportunity to see some of the most awe-inspiring boats around. Lively, costumed crews boat to restaurants and marinas around the lake to collect cards in an attempt to build the best poker hand. Register your crew or simply visit a card stop to join in the fun and help raise funds for local nonprofits.
You may also enjoy: SML Event Guides for every month of the year
Wind Vineyards Rodeo
June 7
Get ready for an action-packed event at Wind Vineyards with sanctioned, professionally produced bull riding, barrel racing and more. Now in its second year, this event features high-level professional riders from across the country, offering an exciting, top-quality rodeo experience. Don’t miss the Grape Crusher monster truck, and enjoy food and drinks available for purchase throughout the day. Wind Vineyards is also planning rodeos for July 19 and Sept. 6.
Harmony4Hope Music Festival
June 8
The Harmony4Hope Music Festival brings the community together through music to support the Lymphoma Research Foundation. Featuring performances by Kimberley Dahme, Jason Long, Martin and Kelly, and Big Daddy Ray, this festive event takes place lakeside at Mango’s Bar & Grill and aims to raise $300,000 for the cause.
Juneteenth Celebration
TBA
Gospel music and food vendors highlight this annual event at Booker T. Washington National Monument.
4th of July Celebrations and Fireworks
TBA 2025
Parkway Marina Fireworks
The largest over-the-water fireworks display at SML, this event is a fundraiser for the Saunders Volunteer Fire Company. Enjoy live music, as well as food and drink vendors. Gates generally open at 5 p.m., with music at 6 and fireworks at dusk. Please note, if you’re coming by water, this is a no-wake event.
This fun-filled SML tradition usually runs from 7 to 11 p.m. Parking is limited at the marina so fireworks are best viewed by boat near channel marker C3 on Craddock Creek. Donations are accepted for various charities. Please note, if you’re coming by water, this is a no-wake event.
You may also enjoy: Our Insider’s Guide to SML Fireworks with essential tips for viewing fireworks by boat and a no-wake zone map.
TBA 2025
Fire WORX Fest
Festivities usually kick off at 5 p.m. and include live music by popular regional band The Worx, food, drinks, vendors, games and fireworks. FireWorx Fest takes place at Downtown Moneta and benefits the Moneta Fire Department.
JULY 6
Wind Vineyards Fireworks Festival
Wind Vineyards’ event on July 6 will feature live music, food vendors, wine and other beverages. Activities include slides, games, bounce houses and Grape Crusher monster truck rides. Walking Tall monster truck will perform before sunset, followed by fireworks.
Free celebration at Spring Valley Farm from 4 to 10 p.m. Live music, food and craft vendors, pony rides, petting zoo, wagon rides and, of course, fireworks at dusk!
Beastlake 5K & Obstacle Course
TBA 2025
A fundraiser for Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy, this event features a 5k, a 5K Obstacle Course and a 1.5-mile Obstacle Course Fun Event.
Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days
July 18-20, 2025
Set sail on a weekend of excitement for scallywags of all ages. Events take place at participating businesses around the lake, and most are free or low cost. The rollicking Pirate’s Ball kicks things off on Friday at Mango’s with live music and a costume contest. Pancakes with Pirates, a kid-friendly breakfast hosted by the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce, is Saturday. There are also pirate-themed cruises on the Virginia Dare (complete with water battles) throughout the weekend, too.
Wine, Balloons and Tunes
AUG. 1-2, 2025
Enjoy a fun-filled day at Wind Vineyards with live music, hot air balloon chartered flights and tethered rides, plus a special appearance by the Grape Crusher monster truck. There will be a number of activities for kids, along with a variety of beverages to taste, including wine, ciders and non-alcoholic options. Food trucks and artisan vendors will also be on hand.
Monster Truck Show
AUG. 9-10, 2025
Don’t miss the Monster Truck Show at Wind Vineyards in July. Enjoy world-famous monster trucks, meet the drivers, watch mini monster truck action and take a ride on the Grape Crusher. The event also features motocross riders, a festival with rides, slides and games, plus food and drink vendors for a full day of excitement.
Labor Day Weekend Concert and Fireworks
TBA 2025
An evening of family fun at Eastlake Community Church. Bounce houses for the kids, food vendors, live Christian music concert and a fireworks display. 5-10 p.m.
Smith Mountain Lake Antique and Classic Boat Show
Sept. 13, 2025
Now in its 33rd year, this annual favorite will take place at Goodhue Boat Company – Blackwater (formerly Crazy Horse Marina). Check out beautifully restored wooden boats, meet their friendly owners and peruse a variety of craft and other vendors. The show is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
Sept. 27-28, 2025
The Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, one of the region’s longest-running and most popular events, will take place at Bernard’s Landing, with stunning lake and mountain views. Enjoy tastings of wine, beer, cider and spirits, browse a variety of artisan vendors and soak in the sounds of top regional and local bands. With plenty of room for dancing, festivalgoers can sip, shop and sway to the music while supporting local charities. The event takes place rain or shine from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.
Olde Dominion Fantasy & Medieval Faire
SEPT. 27-28, 2025
Wind Vineyards will host this new event featuring comedy, crusader knights and themed entertainment for all ages. Food, wine, ciders and more will also be available.
Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour
Oct. 10-12, 2025
The SML Charity Home Tour is one of the area’s most anticipated annual events, drawing thousands of visitors each fall to explore eight stunning waterfront homes while supporting local charities. Held over Columbus Day weekend, this year will mark the 34th edition of this truly unique event. Come by car or boat to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience!
Dive deeper with our SML Event Guides for every month of the year
Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili and Craft Festival
Nov. 1, 2025
Savor a variety of delicious chili, shop unique vendors and enjoy live music while enjoying the colorful fall foliage lakeside at Bridgewater Plaza. Gates open at 11 a.m. for this fun-filled, family-friendly event with tastings from noon to 2 p.m. Arrive by car or boat and cast your vote for the “People’s Choice” and “Best Showmanship” categories, then stick around to see who the judges crown for “Best Chili.”
Smith Mountain Lake Lighted Boat Parade
NOV. 1, 2025
Kick off the holiday season with this fun-filled tradition featuring decorated boats cruising up and down the lake starting at 7 p.m. Enter your boat (free), book a spot on the Virginia Dare (fee) or head to a vantage point along the lakeside parade route. All are invited to donate jackets, gloves and toys for distribution to local children in need.
Smith Mountain Lake Turkey Trot
Nov. 27, 2025
Now in its third year, the Smith Mountain Lake Turkey Trot is a family-friendly 5K run/walk and a kids’ 1-miler that starts at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day at SML State Park. The race takes place on a scenic, paved route and is open to runners and walkers of all ages. There will be a bounce house for kids and an award for the most-spirited family outfits. A portion of proceeds benefit the park.
Santa Around Bridgewater Plaza
Nov. 29, 2025
This beloved Smith Mountain Lake tradition begins with Santa making a grand entrance by lighted boat at Bridgewater Marina. He then heads to the upper level of Bridgewater Plaza to hear wishes and pose for festive photos at SML Coffee House. Visitors can also join a plaza-wide Elf on the Shelf adventure, indulge in tasty treats and take advantage of special holiday deals at participating businesses.
Bedford Festival of Trees
All month
Immerse yourself in holiday ambiance at the Bedford Area Welcome Center, where local businesses and community organizations display creatively adorned Christmas trees.
Come Home to a Franklin County Christmas
Dec. 6, 2025
Celebrate the season in the heart of downtown Rocky Mount with a festive Christmas parade, tree lighting, dancing, music, shopping, and more.
In addition to the annual events featured above, you’ll also want to check out happenings at The Coves Amphitheater, Harvester Performance Center and SML Pavilion.
Need accommodations? Consult our comprehensive SML Vacation Rentals and Lodging Guide or download our FREE SML Lodging eBook.
Andie Gibson
CO-PUBLISHER
Andie has been covering Smith Mountain Lake since 2000 for a variety of publications, including Smith Mountain Laker Magazine, The Roanoker, SML Visitor and Newcomer Guide, SML HOME Magazine and Life Outside. As a partner in G&C Ventures, LLC, she oversees all content for our suite of websites, including Smith-Mountain-Lake.com and LakeLubbers.com.
