Ultimate Guide to Smith Mountain Lake Events and Festivals (2026)
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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 2026.
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2026 Smith Mountain Lake Calendar of Events
This post is updated throughout the year as plans are finalized, so be sure to check back regularly or sign up for our weekly email newsletter.
APRIL 28
SML Business Expo
Connect with more than 100 local businesses and discover new services at this one-stop community showcase.
MAY 2
SML Triathlon
A longtime SML tradition featuring swim, bike and run courses at scenic SML State Park. Participate, cheer or volunteer.
MAY 2
Portside BBQ Battle
A lively lakeside showdown serving up award-worthy barbecue, live music and local flavor at Portside Grill and Bar.
MAY 2
Monster Truck Show
World-famous monster trucks, motocross thrills and festival-style entertainment roar into Wind Vineyards.
MAY 2
Take Pride in SML
Neighbors, families, business and civic groups unite across the lake for this annual cleanup event ahead of the summer season.
MAY 6, 13, 20, 27
Open Mic Competition
Six weeks of live music competition at Mango’s, with the winner advancing to the SML Wine Festival.
MAY 16
SML Poker Run
Eye-catching boats, costumed crews and card stops at marinas around the lake, all to benefit local charities.
Where to Stay
Easily explore and compare Smith Mountain Lake accommodations to fit every budget.
JUNE 11-14
SML Songwriters Festival
Three days of live music featuring talented singer-songwriters at venues on and off the water. Proceeds support multiple local charities.
JUNE 7
Harmony4Hope Music Festival
A lakeside music celebration and fundraiser at Mango’s Bar & Grill supporting lymphoma research..
JUNE 13
Spring Antique Boat Show
Preview classic boats ahead of September’s main show and bring your boat for a free vessel safety check.
JUNE 20
Juneteenth Celebration
Living history, guided tours and gospel music honoring Juneteenth at Booker T. Washington National Monument.
JULY 3-5
Independence Day Celebrations
Fourth of July festivities around the lake, including live music and over-the-water fireworks displays.
JULY 17-19
Pirate Days
A weekend of pirate-themed fun featuring lake battles, live music, a Pirate’s Ball and kid-friendly events at various lake venues.
JULY 31-AUGUST 1
Wine, Balloons & Tunes
Wine tastings, live music, balloon rides and family-friendly activities at Wind Vineyards.
AUGUST 29
Big Little Poker Run
High-energy charity event showcasing impressive boats, themed crews and card stops at various marinas and restaurants.
SEPTEMBER 5
SMAC Sock Hop
Celebrate the lake’s 60th anniversary with a dance at the SML YMCA, featuring hits from the 1960s performed by the SML Boomer Band to benefit the Smith Mountain Arts Council.
SEPTEMBER 5
SML Rodeo
Professional bull riding, barrel racing and high-energy rodeo action hosted at Wind Vineyards.
SEPTEMBER 12
Antique and Classic Boat Show
Beautifully restored wooden boats, vendors and waterfront views at this long-running lake tradition at Goodhue Boat Company, Blackwater.
SEPTEMBER 26-27
SML Wine Festival
The region’s largest annual event featuring wine, beer, cider, spirits, live music and artisan vendors at Bernard’s Landing.
SEPTEMBER 19
Monster Truck Show
World-famous monster trucks, motocross thrills and festival-style entertainment roar into Wind Vineyards.
SEPTEMBER 19
Rocky Mount Fest
Enjoy live music, tasty food and local vendors at this fun-filled community celebration in downtown Rocky Mount.
SEPTEMBER 26-27
Fantasy & Medieval Faire
Full-contact armored battles, fantasy fun, cosplay and live entertainment transform Wind Vineyards for a family-friendly medieval weekend.
OCTOBER 9-11
SML Charity Home Tour
Tour eight stunning waterfront homes, accessible by land and lake, benefiting multiple local charities.
OCTOBER 17
SML Rodeo
Professional bull riding, barrel racing and high-energy rodeo action hosted at Wind Vineyards.
Where to Stay
Easily explore and compare Smith Mountain Lake accommodations to fit every budget.
NOVEMBER 7
Lighted Boat Parade
Festively decorated boats cruise the main channel from Virginia Dare Marina to Bridgewater Plaza and back, kicking off the holiday season.
NOVEMBER 7
SML Chili Festival
Chili tastings, local vendors, live entertainment and peak fall foliage in a family-friendly setting at Bridgewater Plaza.
NOVEMBER 26
SML Turkey Trot
A festive Thanksgiving morning run or walk through SML State Park, welcoming families and visitors of all ages.
NOVEMBER 26
Santa Around Bridgewater Plaza
anta arrives by boat for holiday cheer, Elf on the Shelf fun and Small Business Saturday shopping.
DECEMBER 1-31
Bedford Festival of Trees
Admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees displayed by local businesses and community organizations.
DECEMBER 1-25
Land of Lights
Dazzling drive-through display of holiday lights at Franklin County Recreation Park that capture the spirit of the season.
DECEMBER 5
Come Home to a Franklin County Christmas
Downtown Rocky Mount sparkles with parade floats, music, dancers, food and craft vendors.
DECEMBER 5
Bedford Christmas Parade
Celebrate the season with Bedford’s holiday parade and the lighting of the community Christmas tree.
TBA
Home for the Holidays Concert
Celebrate the season with a holiday concert featuring Maestro David Stewart Wiley of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra.
TBA
Steel Drum Band Holiday Concert
Island-inspired steel drum music brings a fun twist to classic holiday favorites.
In addition to the annual events featured above, you’ll also want to check out happenings at The Coves Amphitheater and Harvester Performance Center.
Need accommodations? Consult our comprehensive SML Vacation Rentals and Lodging Guide or download our FREE SML Lodging eBook.
Explore More Articles on Smith Mountain Lake Events
Where to Stay
Easily explore and compare Smith Mountain Lake accommodations to fit every budget.
Insider Tip: Check out our monthly SML events blog posts for a schedule of live music around the lake!
