The Coves Charity Concert Series (2026)

Through its Neighbors in Need initiative, The Coves Charity Concert Series benefits a coalition of local nonprofits addressing food and healthcare needs in Franklin County with more than $200,000 collected since 2020.

The coalition includes the Free Clinic of Franklin County (Bernard Healthcare Center), SML Good Neighbors, Stepping Stone Mission, Transition Basics and SML Gives, Inc. Together, these organizations are expanding their reach while raising awareness of the challenges facing some of the region’s most vulnerable residents.

The concerts began as small, socially distanced porch-side gatherings in the fall of 2020 in the Union Hall development of The Coves.

The events raise money for children in need during the pandemic. Those early, intimate performances sparked the vision for what is now an impressive amphitheater overlooking the lake and mountains.

Since opening in 2021, the venue has hosted acclaimed performers such as Ricky Skaggs, Bruce Hornsby, Indigo Girls, Michael Franti and Old Crow Medicine Show.

“From the beginning, we’ve wanted to celebrate the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake while also shining a light on families who are quietly struggling. In a place that feels so full of life, not everyone shares in that experience,” said Dennis Crumpler, developer of The Coves at SML, a low-density lakefront community that blends scenic trails, shared gathering spaces and modern amenities with a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings.

“This concert series lets us honor both, bringing people together while supporting charities doing meaningful work for those who need it most.”

To date, the concert series has generated more than $150,000 for local charities, driven primarily by skybox sales, with 100 percent of proceeds going directly to the charity coalition.

Additional support comes from ticket sales, pre-concert dinners and donated bar tips, many of which are contributed by volunteers from the partner charities who help staff the concerts.

Each temperature-controlled skybox includes six tickets, a private deck, VIP bar and restroom access and a direct view of the stage. Available for individual shows or the full season, Crumpler said the skyboxes offer a memorable way to celebrate special occasions or entertain clients, while corporate sponsorships provide additional opportunities to support the cause.

“One out of every eight Franklin County residents is struggling to know where their food is going to come from,” said Staci Talley, president of Stepping Stone Mission. “An $800 skybox purchases 150 meals for our kitchen.”

A wide variety of musicians will take the stage at The Coves Amphitheater in 2026. You may purchase ticket at covesmusic.com or enter to win free tickets here.

We’ve partnered with The Coves to give away two tickets to each concert in 2026. Enter here!