12 Essential Smith Mountain Lake Fall Events (2025)

Autumn at Smith Mountain Lake is here—bringing crisp air, stunning foliage, and an incredible lineup of can’t-miss events.

This SML Fall Events Guide is just a starting point. For even more, explore our comprehensive monthly event calendars packed with the best things to do at Smith Mountain Lake.

The best way to stay in the know is to subscribe to the SML Outlook, our free weekly email, to get the top Smith Mountain Lake events delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday.

Now in its 33rd year, this annual favorite will take place at Goodhue Boat Company, Blackwater. Check out  beautifully restored antique and classic boats, meet their friendly owners and peruse a variety of craft and other vendors at the SML Antique & Classic Boat Show. The event is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Lake Players will bring The Addams Family: The Musical to life on stage at Westlake Cinema. Directed by Broadway veteran Matt Karris, this spooky and kooky hit promises family-friendly fun filled with music, laughter and mischief. This marks the first live event produced by the SML Center, which aims to purchase the cinema and create a hub for arts, education and entertainment. Find out more.

Get ready for small-town charm and big-time fun at Rocky Mount Fest. Held annually in the heart of downtown Rocky Mount, this family-friendly celebration features live music, food, local vendors, kids’ activities and more. Enjoy a full day of festivities, including performances by regional bands, community showcases and a vibrant street fair atmosphere.

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 its stunning lake and mountain views. The event includes tastings of wine, beer, cider and spirits, live music and artisan vendors, and proceeds benefit local charities. It takes place rain or shine from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

Experience the thrill of live medieval combat, fantasy fun and family-friendly entertainment at the Olde Dominion Fantasy & Medieval Faire at Wind Vineyards. This year’s theme, The Legend of the Grail, will feature full-contact armored battles, food, crafts, cosplay and live performances. Enjoy a variety of food, wine, cider and other refreshments throughout the weekend. windvineyards.com

The SML Charity Home Tour invites visitors to explore eight spectacular waterfront homes each year during Columbus Day weekend. The event not only showcases the beauty of the lake, but also raises money and awareness for local charities, with more than $5 million donated since the all-volunteer organization’s inception in 1991. Read our comprehensive Home Tour Guide with home descriptions, maps, directions by car and boat, insider tips and more!

Make plans to attend the Smith Mountain Arts Council Annual Art Show at Kaleidoscope Gathering Place. This popular, non-juried exhibition will feature original artwork in diverse media and genres by regional artists of all ages. The opening reception includes several cash awards, and a People’s Choice award is presented at the close of the show. smithmountainartscouncil.com/art-show

Kick off the holiday season at the Lighted Boat Parade, a 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.

Savor a variety of chili, shop and listen to live music while enjoying the colorful fall foliage lakeside at Bridgewater Plaza. Gates open at 11 a.m. for this family-friendly event, with tastings from noon to 2 p.m. Vote for your favorites in the “People’s Choice” and “Best Showmanship” categories, and stick around to see who the judges crown for “Best Chili” at the 2025 SML Fall Chili Festival.

The Smith Mountain Lake Turkey Trot is a family-friendly Thanksgiving tradition features a 5K run/walk and a 1-mile kids’ fun run. The event kicks off at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, following a scenic, paved course suitable for participants of all ages. Dress to impress as there’s a prize for the most spiritedly dressed group or family. A portion of the proceeds supports the park

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 hunt, indulge in tasty treats and take advantage of special holiday deals at participating businesses. Make plans to attend Santa Around Bridgewater Plaza!