Fun things to do at Smith Mountain Lake in the fall

Summer may be nearly behind us, but that doesn’t mean there’s not PLENTY of fun things to do at Smith Mountain Lake!

In fact, some of the absolute best Smith Mountain Lake events take place in September, October and November, including several biggies right here at Bridgewater Plaza.

Boat rental prices also drop for the season (starting the day after Labor Day), which is another great reason why autumn is an amazing time to visit Smith Mountain Lake.

Click here -> Book SML boat rentals

SML Antique  & Classic Boat Show and Festival

Date: Sept/ 14, 2019

Description: Antique and classic boat enthusiasts from around the country converge on SML to show off their beautiful vessels. Craft and food vendors, activities for kids and more. Free (but donations accepted.)

Location: Mariners Landing Resort - Accessible by boat

Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More details: woodenboats.net 

Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival

Date: Sept. 28-29, 2019

Description: Dozens of Virgina wineries and breweries, artisan and craft vendors, food and live music combine to create one of SML's most popular annual events. Advance tickets are $26 for tasters and $16 for non-tasters and can be purchased online.

Location: Crazy Horse Marina - Accessible by boat

Time: Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (rain or shine)

More details: SML Regional Chamber of Commerce

Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour

Date: Oct. 11-13, 2019

Description: Eight stunning waterfront homes are open to the public to raise funds for lake-area charities. Tickets are good for all three days. Early bird prices available online.

Location: Various locations around the lake; Accessible by boat - Click for home locations and directions

Time: Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

More details: smcharityhometour.com

Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili and Craft Festival

Date: Nov. 2, 2019

Description: Chili tasting and competitive cookoff, craft vendors, live music and more – all along the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. Tickets are $7 at the gate.

Location: Bridgewater Plaza - Accessible by boat

Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

More details: visitsmithmountainlake.com/sml-chili-festival

Christmas Around Bridgewater

Date: Nov. 30, 2019

Description: A Smith Mountain Lake tradition you don't want to miss! Enjoy retail open houses, refreshments, door prizes, an Elf on the Shelf contest and more at this FREE event.

Santa arrives by boat to hear wish lists and pose for photos until 4 p.m. (bring your own camera).

Location: Bridgewater Plaza - Accessible by boat

Time: 1-4 p.m.

More details: 5 Reasons to Shop Small at SML this Holiday Season

Small Business Saturday at Smith Mountain Lake

Date: Nov. 30, 2019

Description: A day to celebrate the Shop Small movement and encourage shoppers to support local merchants.

Location: All around Smith Mountain Lake, including Bridgewater Plaza (accessible by boat)

Time: Varies depending on the merchant, but basically 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

More details: 5 Reasons to Shop Small at SML this Holiday Season

Autumn is a great time to get out on Smith Mountain Lake!

Take advantage of off-season pricing for boats and jet ski rentals by visiting our online booking site. It's fast and easy!

CLICK TO BOOK