Chincoteague Pony Swim to be featured on 2025 Virginia Travel Guide Cover

The iconic Chincoteague Pony Swim will grace the cover of the 2025 Virginia Travel Guide as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this July. The annual event, organized by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, has become a signature attraction drawing thousands of visitors to Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

The tradition began in 1925 following two devastating fires that struck Chincoteague’s downtown in the early 1920s. Twenty-five local men formed the volunteer fire company and initiated the carnival and pony swim as a fundraiser to purchase essential firefighting equipment. Their first event drew an estimated 15,000 spectators, establishing a tradition that continues to this day.

The event gained international recognition through Marguerite Henry’s 1946 children’s novel “Misty of Chincoteague” and its subsequent 1961 film adaptation. In 2023, the Chincoteague Ponies were officially designated as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Official Pony.

The weeklong celebration, scheduled for July 30-31, 2025, includes multiple events such as the South and North Herd Roundups, Beach Walk, veterinary checks, and the main attractions – the Pony Swim and Auction. During the swim, saltwater cowboys guide the famous ponies across the Assateague Channel while spectators watch from Veterans Memorial Park, Pony Swim Lane, and various watercraft.

“Pony Penning is a magical time of year, steeped in rich tradition,” said Joanne Moore, Executive Director of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce & Certified Visitor Center. “This year promises to be even more memorable as the fire company and community are planning special events to commemorate this one-hundred-year milestone.”

The 2025 Virginia Travel Guide, available free at Virginia State Welcome Centers and online at Virginia.org, will feature personal recommendations and narratives from writers and local enthusiasts. Virginia Tourism President and CEO Rita McClenny expressed enthusiasm about showcasing the event, noting its significance in highlighting the Commonwealth’s unique attractions.

“It is quite an honor for our Chincoteague ponies to be featured on the Virginia Travel Guide, and the entire Eastern Shore of Virginia is excited to celebrate the 100th anniversary Chincoteague Pony Swim this year,” said Robert Sabbatini, the Executive Director of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission. “The pony swim has such a great historical and cultural significance to the Eastern Shore, and now attracts visitors from all over the world. We look forward to the 100th Anniversary!”

Visitors planning to attend the centennial celebration can access detailed event information and schedules through the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce website or the Chincoteague App. The annual carnival will run for 16 nights, featuring two fireworks displays as part of the anniversary festivities.