A number of organized major events grace the Lake area each year and provide residents and visitors a range of fun things to experience as well as activities with which to become involved in some way. Here is just a sampling:

  • Boating Safety events – Multiple sessions of Virginia’s “Boat Virginia” boating safety education program are offered beginning in January. With warmer weather come several opportunities for free Boating Safety Equipment inspections at local marinas by trained members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and US Sail and Power Squadron. 
  • Lyrics on the Lake – Talented musicians perform their original compositions at several pub-style venues around the Lake and are judged by visiting Nashville artists. Audience voting also plays a part in picking a winner for a Nashville audition.  
  • Pirate Days – A Chamber of Commerce event held one weekend each July featuring decorated boats and costumed crews engaging in mock battles with biodegradable water balloons, water cannons and other “soaker” weapons. Several waterfront parties occur and many retailers offer specials to celebrate the family-friendly event. 
  • Wake the World – Many owners of inboard (for safety) towboats gather to provide a day of swimming/tubing/skiing/wakeboarding for area children who might otherwise never have the chance. Organized by Crazy Horse Marina and Bridgewater’s Smith Mountain Wake tow-sports shop, over 100 kids are treated to this very special day of on-water fun. 
  • SML Wine Festival – Aficionados and curious alike enjoy a weekend of sampling Virginia wines and craft beers plus music, crafts and food concessions.  
  • Antique Boat Show – The SML Antique and Classic Boat Society’s annual fall showing of restored early Chris Craft and Century “woodie” vessels, plus examples of early fiberglass runabouts. Many of the boats shown are resident to SML; others come from afar for the weekend of showings and cruising. All are a delight for the curious who stroll the docks of Mariners’ Landing to ogle the workmanship that has brought these old boats back to life. 
  • Charity Home Tour – It takes over 1100 volunteers to stage this, the area’s biggest charity fundraiser, held each year on Columbus Day weekend. Eight stunning waterfront homes are opened for public inspection; proceeds go to area charities that apply to participate. CHT has raised nearly $5 million in it’s 29 year history.  
  • Christmas Boat Parade – A line-up of decorated boats follow the Virginia Dare “sidewheeler” replica on an after-dark cruise up the Roanoke River to Bridgewater Plaza. Boat crews and guests at parade-watching parties in shorefront homes contribute toys for children of impoverished families.