Where Music Meets the Water —
Join Us at The SML Songwriters Festival!
The Smith Mountain Lake Songwriters Festival is a multi-day celebration of music and community set against the stunning backdrop of Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.
The festival kicked off this season on April 27th, with a phenomenal concert featuring National Recording Artist, Glen Shelton.
The Open Mic Contest began on May 7th. It will continue every Wednesday until the Grand Finale on June 18th.
The three-day festival featuring Ty Herndon and 19 other singer-songwriters from Nashville to Austin will be held at various venues from June 20th – June 22nd.
Presented by Hook, Lines & Singers, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting charities through music. Run by volunteers, all donations are tax-deductible and benefit local charities.
We’re incredibly grateful to our generous sponsors and venue partners whose continued support makes the SML Songwriters Festival possible. Your commitment helps us celebrate music, uplift local talent, and bring unforgettable experiences to the community.
Want to be part of the magic?
We’re now seeking sponsors for next year’s festival! If you’re interested in supporting live music, connecting with the community, and being part of something special, reach out today. Let’s make next year even bigger—together.
Get ready for an incredible lineup of artists who are writing, recording, and making waves in the music industry. These talented songwriters bring their stories to life on stage in an intimate setting—don’t miss your chance to hear them live!
From scenic lakeside venues to hometown favorites, get ready to celebrate great music in the heart of Smith Mountain Lake. Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains where all can come together to enjoy music and community!
Leading up to the festival there will be an Open Mic Contest that offers local singers and songwriters an exciting opportunity to showcase their talents! The contest takes place every Wednesday from May 7th – June 18th.
2025 SML Songwriters Festival Spring Kickoff Concert
The SML Songwriters Festival kicked off this season with a concert featuring Glen Shelton, a renowned singer-songwriter and National Recording Artist. He entertained the crowd with his high energy show playing both country cover songs and original music. This was an exciting kickoff to the 2025 season!
📅 Date: Sunday, April 27th, 1-4 PM
📍 Location: Mango’s Bar & Grill
2025 SML Songwriters Festival Finale Concert
#1 Independent Single of 2023 | Four Million Albums Sold | 17 Top Ten | Billboard Singles | Three #1 Billboard Singles | Grammy® Nominated | CMA + ACM Nominated | Dove Award Winner
📅 Date: Sunday, June 22nd, 12-5 PM
📍 Location: Mango’s Bar & Grill
Meet the 2025 Featured Artists
Don’t miss your chance to hear them live at the SML Songwriters Festival!
*Check back for artist updates!
*We are no longer accepting songwriter applications for 2025.
Mango’s Bar & Grill
16430 Booker T Washington Hwy, Ste 200, Moneta, VA, 24121
Drifter’s
1617 Crystal Shores Dr Moneta, VA, 24121
Portside Grill & Bar
3619 Airport Rd, Moneta, VA, 24121
Hot Shots
13360 Booker T Washington Hwy
Moneta, VA 24121
The Pavillion at Blackwater Junction
356 Bethel Ln
Union Hall, VA 24176
Hosting VIP Event For Songwriters
Charity Parnters
SML Good Neighbors is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Moneta, Virginia. The organization, founded in 2007, provides academic, enrichment and nutritional programs, free of cost, to students in rising 1st – 6th grades, and scholarships to high school seniors in Franklin and Bedford County, Virginia.
They also provide leadership development internships to college students from around the globe. Their mission is to develop good neighbors skills and values in children through programs that nourish, educate and support them while providing life-changing experiences for college students through leadership development internships.
Veterans of American Legion Post 62
American Legion Post 62 is a veterans organization located in Moneta, VA. The post is dedicated to assisting veterans, mentoring youth, and improving communities as per the national organization’s mission.
Sponsors
We’re incredibly grateful to our generous sponsors and venue partners whose continued support makes the SML Songwriters Festival possible. Your commitment helps us celebrate music, uplift local talent, and bring unforgettable experiences to the community.
Want to be part of the magic?
We’re now seeking sponsors for next year’s festival! If you’re interested in supporting live music, connecting with the community, and being part of something special, reach out today. Let’s make next year even bigger—together.
Special thank you to our 2025:
Songwriter Sponsors:
FLMoore
Steve & Ann Davis
Bridgewater Marina
Debra Gatto
Mangos
Edward Jones
Charlene Jones
Eagles FOE-1
Eagles FOE-2
Laslie’s Auto Body
Patron Sponsors:
Jo & Co Jewelers
Nora & John Hedrick
Open Mic Contest
May 7th – June 18th
Leading up to the festival there will be an Open Mic Contest that offers local singers and songwriters an exciting opportunity to showcase their talents! Whether you’re an experienced artist or just getting started, this is your chance to take the stage and shine!
