July 3rd, 4th and 5th mark some opportunities for great fun around Smith Mountain Lake as Independence Day celebrations take place.

Three days of fireworks that can be seen from land or on water kick off at the 4th of July Rotary Independence Festival which is held at the Franklin County High School Football Stadium in Rocky Mount, but this event is actually on July 3rd beginning at 6pm. A special kids booth will also be set up to entertain the little ones.

Thousands of visitors come to Smith Mountain Lake for the annual Smith Mountain Lake Fireworks Display. This event would not be possible without the hard work and fundraising efforts of the local Saunders Volunteer Fire Company which works with local businesses, organizations and individuals to raise enough funds to support a fireworks show of this magnitude. While the event is free there is a charge to park at the Parkway Marina and the parking is limited (but all proceeds go to support the Saunders Volunteer Fire Company).  Bring your chairs or blanket and partake in live music by The Worx, kids activities, and much more. The event begins at 3pm with live music beginning at 5:30pm and the fireworks show beginning at dusk.

Should you be attending the July 4th fireworks show by boat click here to view a link of pertinent information regarding the “no wake” rules and other safety precautions that boaters should take.

Mitchell’s Point Marina Fireworks and Music Festival begins at 1pm on Saturday, July 5th. Listen to live music and enjoy some great eats. The fireworks show begins at dark and all donations to the event go to help four veteran’s charities.

Last stop on the 4th of July local event calendar is Downtown Moneta’s celebration on July 5th. The Moneta Volunteer Fire Department hosts a fun filled evening beginning at 5:30 with a magician and other activities for the kids. Food, drinks and live music will be enjoyed then the fireworks will begin around 10pm. Admission is $5 per person with children ages 10 and under getting in for free.

There is no better place to be over the 4th of July holiday than at Smith Mountain Lake. Have a safe and fun holiday weekend!

One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, One Nation evermore! –Oliver Wendell Homes