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Chincoteague Island, a small barrier island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, is best known for its wild ponies, made famous by the beloved children’s book Misty of Chincoteague. Annually, it’s home to one of the most iconic wildlife events on the East Coast — the world-famous Chincoteague Pony Swim!
Rooted in tradition and local heritage, this breathtaking spectacle features the Saltwater Cowboys guiding a herd of wild ponies and their foals from neighboring Assateague Island across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague. This annual event is vital in managing the size of the wild herd, keeping it healthy and sustainable (given the limited resources of Assateague Island).
Check out the 2025 schedule below. Be sure to connect with this event online for important viewing details and more.
July 26, 2025
Southern Herd Roundup
Watch the famous Saltwater Cowboys begin rounding up the wild ponies that live on the southern end of Assateague Island.
July 27, 2025
Northern Herd Roundup
The roundup continues as the northern herd is guided into the North Corral in the early morning.
July 28, 2025
The Beach Walk
At sunrise, the Saltwater Cowboys will guide the northern ponies along the Atlantic shoreline, joining them with the southern herd.
July 29, 2025
Pony Vet Checks
All ponies receive veterinary checks before the swim and auction.
July 30, 2025
Pony Swim & Parade
This is the day! Around midday, the Saltwater Cowboys swim the ponies across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. After a short rest, the ponies are paraded down Main Street to the carnival grounds.
July 31, 2025
Pony Auction
Foals are auctioned at the carnival grounds in an event that supports herd management and care.
Aug 1, 2025
Return Swim to Assateague
The adult ponies make their peaceful swim back to Assateague Island. This quieter event is a hidden gem — less crowded and a great chance to watch the ponies as they graze along the shore and gradually make their way back into the wild.
Details:
Website
Dates:
July 26-Aug 1, 2025
Location:
Chincoteague Island, VA
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