Pour Trail
Upcoming · September 26–27, 2026

Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026

Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 in Moneta, VA — over 10,000 attendees, two days of Virginia wines. September 26–27. From $20 (designated driver) to $150 (VIP).

Best for groups Best for foodies grand tasting 21+ only
September 26–27, 2026
$90–$150
Get tickets

Quick facts

At a glance.

Dates
September 26–27, 2026
Duration
2 days
Best for
Groups, Foodies
Atmosphere
Casual
Food
Bring or buy nearby
Age
21+ only

The story

About this festival.

Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 is a grand tasting wine festival held September 26–27 in Moneta, Virginia, welcoming more than 10,000 attendees annually to Bernard's Landing. Gates open at 11 a.m. both days, offering Virginia wines from across the Commonwealth alongside craft vendors, food options, and two days of live music. General admission tasting tickets start at $50 (early bird $30), with a two-day option at $90, and include a souvenir wine glass. VIP tickets ($150) grant access to a private tent with appetizers, curated wine selections, shaded seating, and upgraded restrooms. Designated driver tickets are available for $20.

The festival's waterfront location at Bernard's Landing provides views of Smith Mountain Lake while visitors sample from multiple Virginia wineries and purchase bottles for off-premise pickup. Live music programming features local, regional, and national acts across both days. Craft vendors curate handmade and distinctive items, while food vendors provide everything from light snacks to full meals.

For groups or those seeking premium amenities, private chalets ($600–$1,000) offer reserved seating and optional add-ons in limited availability. Early bird discounts apply through May 31st. Tickets are available at the gate, though advance purchase is recommended for popular ticket types. The festival combines wine tasting with entertainment and shopping in a single outdoor venue, making logistics straightforward for first-time visitors.

Getting there

Location & logistics.

What to expect

The experience.

Wine focus

Expect a strong showing of red, white — pace yourself and start with the lighter pours.

The setting

Held at Bernard's Landing Resort in Moneta. Check the venue page for layout details.

The crowd

A mix of regulars and newcomers. Knowledgeable pourers happy to walk you through what you're tasting.

Worth the trip

Arrive early, hit your must-try wineries first, then wander. That's the move.

Reviews

What people are saying.

No reviews yet.

Been to this festival? Share your experience →

Frequently asked

Common questions.

When is Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026?
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 runs September 26–27 in Moneta, Virginia. Gates open at 11 a.m. both days at Bernard's Landing. The festival spans two full days with continuous live music and wine tasting throughout.
How much are tickets to Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026?
General admission tasting tickets are $50 (early bird $30 until May 31st), with a two-day option at $90 (early bird $50). VIP tickets cost $150 (early bird $100). Designated driver tickets are $20. Private chalets range from $600–$1,000 with limited availability.
What is included with a VIP ticket?
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 VIP tickets ($150) include access to a private tent overlooking the festival grounds, appetizers, curated wine selections from participating wineries, beer, shaded seating, and upgraded restroom facilities. VIP attendees avoid general admission crowds while enjoying premium amenities.
Is Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 family-friendly?
The festival welcomes over 10,000 attendees annually to Bernard's Landing with food vendors, craft shopping, and live music, suggesting broad appeal. However, the source does not specify age policies or family-specific programming, so confirm directly with the festival before attending with children.
Where exactly is Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 held?
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival 2026 takes place at Bernard's Landing in Moneta, Virginia, on the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. The waterfront venue offers views of the lake while hosting Virginia wineries, food vendors, craft vendors, and two days of live entertainment.

More Virginia

Other festivals nearby.

Newsletter

Join The Pour

Get the best upcoming wine festivals, seasonal picks, and planning guides in your inbox each week.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.