Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival: Insider’s Guide (2024)

Get ready for a weekend of fun, flavor and philanthropy as the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival returns Sept. 28-29 to scenic Bernard’s Landing Resort. 

Festival-goers can look forward to an impressive lineup of more than 100 vendors, featuring a mix of food, wine, beer and crafts, according to Tim Reith, executive director of the nonprofit Hook Lines and Singers, which organizes the event.

Reith said he’s excited about the diverse offerings, as well as the lineup of live music both days.

“Music lovers are in for a treat with performances by Calvin Lawhorne, Big Daddy Ray, Spank and SupaFly Five on Saturday, and Austin Myers, Danielle Gray, the Jerry Wimmer Trio and The Kings on Sunday,” Reith said. “There will be plenty of room for dancing, too.”

New this year, one-day general admission tickets are good for either day. Patrons may also purchase a discounted two-day ticket. VIP tickets offer access to a private tent area overlooking the festival grounds, plus shaded seating, upgraded restrooms and complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer.

Reith said the spirit of giving remains at the core of the festival with Hook Lines and Singers aiming to donate $60,000 to six area nonprofits. Beneficiaries include SML Good Neighbors, Healing Strides of Virginia, the Franklin County YMCA, Lake Christian Ministries, American Legion Post 62 and SML Marine Fire and Rescue.

To ensure a seamless experience, Reith said four parking areas will be available, with shuttle buses and golf carts providing easy access. Handicap parking will also be designated closer to the venue.

The 2024 Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival is slated for Sept. 28-29. Of course, if you can, it’s best to book accommodations right at Bernard’s Landing so you can walk to all the festivities.

On-site condos and nearby homes are expected to book up early for the weekend so be sure to make your arrangements for accommodations ASAP. Use this handy link to find the perfect spot for you and your wine-loving crew!

Here is the music lineup for the 2024 festival:

Saturday

• Calvin Lawhorne, 11-11:45 a.m.
• Big Daddy Ray, 12-2 p.m.
• SupaFly Five, 2-4 p.m.
• Spank, 4:15-6 p.m.

Sunday

• Austin Myers, 11-11:45 a.m.
• Danielle Gray, 12-12:45 p.m.
• Jerry Wimmer, 1:15-3:15 p.m.
• The Kings, 3:30-:5:30 p.m.

$50 for one-day or $90 for two-day general admission

$150 one-day VIP

$20 non-taster admission

Taster tickets include a souvenir wine glass. Parking is free. 

The festival takes place rain or shine (no refunds). No pets or coolers permitted. Limited boat slips available through the Bernard’s Landing POA by contacting [email protected].

To keep up with the latest, be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter and follow us on social media.

Contrary to popular belief, Bernard’s is not the original home of the SML Wine Festival. That distinction goes to the former Manor at Taylor’s Store B&B off of Virginia 122 near Burnt Chimney, which hosted the first three events starting in 1989.

However, Bernard’s Landing, a beloved venue from 1992 to 2007, was where the SML Wine Festival truly flourished, growing under the direction of the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce to become the lake’s largest and most popular event.

Other locations for the event have included LakeWatch Plantation, Crazy Horse Marina and Mariners Landing. The festival was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the global pandemic.

Watch our video with Hook Lines and Singers’ director Tim Reith about the 2023 SML Wine Festival featuring live music with Morgan Myles.