06/20/2026
FYI: Something to keep in mind. Stay safe out there! 🛶⛵️🚣♂️
NO-WAKE ZONE PROTOCOL 🌟 SML’s two most spectacular over-the-water fireworks shows will be launched by professionals on July 2 and 4 and include viewing areas designated as temporary no-wake zones from 8 to 11 p.m.
Read the full version of this story. 👉 smith-mountain-lake.com/events/sml-fireworks
Find accommodations. 👉 smith-mountain-lake.com/stay
🚤 During both evenings, it’s crucial for boats to reduce speed to idle upon entering the primary viewing areas to prevent disturbance to other vessels and ensure everyone’s safety. Typically, the fireworks begin around 9:45 p.m.
When leaving the area, boats must again idle back out to the no-wake zone boundaries before accelerating to a safe after-dark cruising speed. This gives the traffic (as many as 3,000 boats is typical) a chance to separate before wakes are generated.
Look out for vessels displaying flashing yellow, blue or red lights, as they indicate the no-wake boundaries and are authorized to enforce the no-wake protocol. Skippers who disregard this protocol and operate above idle speed within these boundaries risk receiving citations for reckless operation.
Smith Mountain Lake has adhered to this no-wake fireworks protocol since 2006, resulting in very few incidents and zero serious injuries. SML Insiders urges all boaters to help maintain this outstanding safety record during these two evenings.
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