Hook Lines and Singers, Inc., which is in its second year of organizing the popular and long-running Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, announced today it will relocate the event to Bernard’s Landing for at least the next five years.
After getting its start at the former Manor at Taylor’s Store B&B near Burnt Chimney in 1989, the Wine Festival moved to Bernard’s in 1992 where it flourished through 2007 before transitioning to LakeWatch Plantation, Crazy Horse Marina and Mariners Landing over the years.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing the Wine Festival back to Bernard’s Landing in 2024,” said Tim Reith, executive director of Hook Lines and Singers. “In addition to on-site accommodations, a restaurant, docks and ample parking, Bernard’s Landing offers an absolutely spectacular view of the lake and Smith Mountain.”
Mike Thomas, General Manager at Bernard’s Landing, described the partnership as a natural fit.
“We’re excited to be working with Hook Lines and Singers, and to have the marquee event at Smith Mountain Lake in our own backyard again,” he said.
After taking over the event from the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce, Hook Lines and Singers organized a successful SML Wine Festival in September at Crazy Horse Marina that included two days of wine tastings, vendor booths and live music. The organization donated approximately $20,000 to six regional charities, an amount it hopes to double next year.
“We’d really like to get that number up to $6,000 to $10,000 per charity,” Reith said. “We’re passionate about helping local nonprofits fulfill their critical missions in the SML community, and the Wine Festival is such a great way to make that happen.”
The 2024 SML Wine Festival is slated for Sept. 28-29. Those interested in finding out more may visit smlwinefestival.com.
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Photo caption: An aerial view of Bernard’s Landing where the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival will take place Sept. 28-29, 2024. Photo courtesy of Rapid Imagery.
