Smith Mountain Laker

07/14/2026

🌿 They grow vegetables, teach children, support pollinators, help homeowners, and protect the health of Smith Mountain Lake—all as volunteers.

The Franklin County Master Gardeners are quietly making a remarkable impact across the community, from donating more than 2,600 pounds of fresh produce through the Giving Garden at Booker T. Washington National Monument to creating teaching gardens, planting native landscapes, and sharing their horticultural expertise with residents of all ages.

Meet the dedicated volunteers cultivating more than gardens in our latest feature.

Story by Reed Dillon
Photos by Franklin County Master Gardeners and Reed Dillon

A dedicated group of Master Gardeners in Franklin County work to spread gardening knowledge, support the community, and engage in diverse horticultural projects.

07/07/2026

🎶 As Bob Seger famously sang, "Rock and roll never forgets." Neither does the SML Boomer Band.

For eight years, this talented group of local musicians has been bringing the beloved sounds of the ’60s and ’70s back to life — from The Temptations and Wilson Pickett to Santana and The Eagles — while turning every performance into an opportunity to give back.

Since forming in 2018, the SML Boomer Band has raised more than $80,000 for local nonprofits, proving that music can do more than create memories. It can strengthen a community.

Story by Reed Dillon | Images provided by SML Boomer Band

Talented musicians play '60s and '70s hits, spreading joy and raising funds for local nonprofits through vibrant performances since 2018.

07/02/2026

🇺🇸 July is here, and there's no better place to celebrate than Smith Mountain Lake!
🎆 July 2: Fireworks at Mitchell's Point Marina
🎉 July 2: Franklin County Independence Festival & Mullet Contest
🎶 July 3–4: Molly Tuttle at The Coves Amphitheater
🏃 July 4: BeastLake 5K
🎇 July 4: Parkway Marina's annual over-the-water fireworks spectacular
🇺🇸 July 4: Celebrate Independence Day at Poplar Forest

See more events: https://smithmountainlake.com/lifestyle/july-august-2026-events/article_1de4e694-0dfd-4e65-be5f-5949ff86844e.html

Photos by Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest, Franklin County Parks and Recreation, Eastlake SML

07/01/2026

Local resident Michelle Novak turned her passion for life on the water into Unsalted Water Co., a premium lakewear brand inspired by the traditions, adventures, and everyday moments that make lake life so special.

From the Classic Collection to Wags On Water (inspired by her sheepadoodle, Lulu 🐾), every design celebrates the unique ways people connect with the lake, whether it's cruising on a pontoon, casting a line, enjoying sunset drinks, or simply soaking in the view.

Anyone who shares a deep appreciation for Smith Mountain Lake, whether visiting during the summer or enjoying the area year-round, understands that it’s more than a body of water; it’s

06/30/2026

☀️ Our July/August issue is available at smithmountainlake.com (🔗 link in bio), and on newsstands soon.

This issue celebrates everything we love about summer at Smith Mountain Lake: building community, savoring local flavors, and embracing the lake lifestyle. Inside you'll find:

🍅 Local farmers markets and the people growing our communities
🍹 A quest to find Smith Mountain Lake's best piña colada
🌿 Growing hyloom tomatoes
🎶 SML Boomer Band
🌼 Franklin County Master Gardeners
🚤 Unsalted Water Co.
🎨 A getaway to the Virginia Highlands Festival
And more!

📖 Read the latest issue today at the link in our bio, and let us know which story you're most excited to dive into!

Cover photo: Rocky Mount Farmers Market

View the Laker Magazine for Wednesday, June 24, 2026

06/29/2026

🐾 If you're cruising Smith Mountain Lake this summer, there's no need to leave your four-legged first mate behind. Several waterfront restaurants welcome well-mannered, leashed dogs in designated outdoor dining areas.

One longtime favorite is Portside Grill and Bar. Located directly over the water beside the Virginia Dare, Portside's floating docks make arriving by boat a breeze. It's not unusual to see 10–15 dogs soaking up the sunshine on any given day!

The restaurant is also embracing its canine guests with fun additions like the Ruca Smash Burger — named after manager James Wade's dog — plus whipped cream pup cups.

📷 Aaron Spicer

🐶 Does your pup have a favorite pet-friendly spot on Smith Mountain Lake? Tell us in the comments!

Smith Mountain Lake restaurants welcome leashed dogs in designated outdoor areas with pet-friendly amenities like water bowls and special menus for furry companions.

06/03/2026

🍩 Lake mornings are just better with a donut in hand.

Whether you’re heading out on the boat, watching the sunrise from the dock, or fueling up for a day on the water, a fresh pastry or breakfast sandwich and a cup of coffee from are a sweet way to start the day.☕☀️🚤

Looking for more grab-and-go favorites around Smith Mountain Lake? From brunch on the boat to dockside dinners, we’ve rounded up plenty of delicious options for your next lakeside adventure.

Read about them at SmithMountainLake.com (link in bio).

📷

06/02/2026

Boat day? Bring the dog.

From waterfront views and easy dock access to fresh water bowls and pup-friendly treats, several Smith Mountain Lake restaurants make it easy to enjoy a meal without leaving your four-legged first mate behind.

One favorite is at Bridgewater Plaza, where dogs are welcome in a designated outdoor area and can even enjoy a simple menu featuring grilled chicken or a plain hamburger patty.

Discover more dog-friendly dining destinations around the lake and plan your next outing with your best friend by your side.

Read the full story in the latest issue of Smith Mountain Laker and online at smithmountainlake.com.

Story and photo by Reed Dillon

05/22/2026

Looking for meaningful ways to spend Memorial Day weekend around Smith Mountain Lake and beyond? 🇺🇸

Here are a few events and exhibitions worth adding to your plans:

🏛️ Go behind the scenes at during special architectural restoration tours exploring Thomas Jefferson’s villa and the meticulous work bringing it back to its original appearance.

🇺🇸 Honor those who gave their lives in service during the annual Memorial Day observance at the National D-Day Memorial on May 25 with Guest Speaker Ami Waldon, Mothers of Veteran Su***de president.

🎨 While in Bedford, explore “The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz” at the — a traveling exhibition celebrating the creator of Peanuts and one of the most influential comic artists of all time.

Find more details and local happenings at smithmountainlaker.com.

05/21/2026

Summer at Smith Mountain Lake is nearly in full swing — and no one captures the magic of the season quite like Kimba Dalferes. ☀️🌊 From dockside mornings and sunset margaritas to wildlife sightings and welcoming new visitors to the Lake, her latest column is a reminder of what makes this community so special.

“Take a deep breath and slow down. The Lake is built for dawdling.”

Read the full column now at smithmountainlaker.com and soak in all the summer-at-the-Lake wisdom. 💙