Where Luck
Meets The Water

Join us as we raise money for local charities through a fun day of friendly competition at Smith Mountain Lake

2026 sml poker run - may 16, 2026

MANGO’S BAR & GRILL

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

:

Minute(s)

:

Second(s)

The Smith Mountain Lake Poker Run is a charitable boating event that combines a scenic day on the water with a little friendly competition, all in support of local causes.

Boats travel to multiple designated card stops around Smith Mountain Lake to collect a playing card at each location. At the end of the run, players turn in their best five-card hand for a chance to win cash prizes and other awards. The first player to get five aces receives $2,000.00 — a top prize the SMLBA has awarded numerous times. There is also a $1,000.00 prize for the best hand, $500 for second best, $200 for third best, and many other cash awards for various categories such as best appearing crew and the most players on a boat. In addition to top hands, prizes are awarded in several fun categories, including crew spirit and participation.

The event is limited to a set number of boats to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Captains may bring as many registered players and guests as their vessel’s legal capacity allows. Boats of all kinds are welcome, from cruisers and pontoons to runabouts and houseboats.

If a boat is unable to complete every stop within the event window, accommodations are made so participants can still finish the day and remain eligible. The goal is a great experience on the water, not a sprint to the finish.

All proceeds benefit local charities and lake-area organizations, helping strengthen and support the Smith Mountain Lake community.

Participants enjoy a full weekend of activities, including a kickoff gathering, the Saturday run, and a celebratory return to the marina featuring food, music, and time to connect with fellow boaters, volunteers, and sponsors.

SML Poker Run Event Details

Registration Fees

  • Boat Registration: $380 (Includes 1 captian and 1 player)
  • Player Registration: $190 per player
  • Guest Registration: $125 per guest

What’s Included

Captains receive:

  • Participation in the Poker Run card event
  • Eligibility for cash prizes and awards
  • Access to all scheduled weekend festivities
  • Captains Bag
  • T-Shirt

Players receive:

  • Participation in the Poker Run card event
  • Eligibility for cash prizes and awards
  • Access to all scheduled weekend festivities
  • T-Shirt

Guests Receive:

  • Access to all scheduled weekend festivities 
  • T-Shirt
Register Now!

We’re all in for a good cause.

Whether you're ready to register, interested in becoming a sponsor, or just want to learn more about how you can be part of the weekend, we’d love to hear from you. The Smith Mountain Lake Poker Run is more than a day on the water. It’s a chance to raise funds and make waves for our charities in a big way.

Contact Us

Unveiled in 1969, Virginia is for Lovers is one of the most iconic and enduring tourism slogans in the world. Originally crafted to appeal to young travelers with interests in history, beaches, and outdoor adventures, the phrase quickly took on a broader meaning, symbolizing a love for all things Virginia. While the logo has taken on several different looks over the decades, it has always been a well-loved and celebrated part of Virginia’s identity, inspiring locals and visitors alike to explore everything the commonwealth has to offer.