Residents: 5,253

Official name of local region:

Official nickname/s of residents: "smiltenieši". This term simply refers to the people or inhabitants of Smiltene, following the standard Latvian naming convention for demonyms (names for the residents of places).

Main occupation: primarily based on the region's agricultural and manufacturing industries, with some notable emphasis on service sectors due to its role as a regional center.

Favorite / main local dishes: local dairy products from "Smiltenes Piens". Also "Ozolu maizes piparkūkas" — these gingerbread cookies are a local specialty in Smiltene and are particularly famous during the Christmas season.

Favorite sports: In Smiltene, like much of Latvia, sports play an important role in the community, both for recreational and competitive purposes. Popular sports include orienteering, football, basketball, ice hockey, cycling, athletics, hiking.