Pony Penning Day is Here

The Chincoteague Pony Penning reaches its biggest day of the year Wednesday as thousands of visitors line the shores of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands for the world-famous Pony Swim.

At slack tide, expected at approximately 9:00 Wednesday morning, the Saltwater Cowboys will guide the herd of wild ponies across the Assateague Channel from Assateague Island to Chincoteague. The swim, a tradition dating back more than a century, attracts tens of thousands of spectators each year.

Once ashore, the ponies will make their way through downtown Chincoteague in the annual Pony Parade before arriving at the carnival grounds, where they’ll remain until Thursday’s Foal Auction.

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company reminds visitors to arrive early, expect heavy traffic, and follow directions from law enforcement and event volunteers. Parking is limited, and shuttle service is available from designated lots.

The festivities continue Thursday morning with the annual Foal Auction beginning at 8 a.m., with selected foals sold to help support the care and management of the Chincoteague herd. On Friday morning, the remaining ponies will make the return swim back to Assateague Island.

The Pony Penning is one of Virginia’s longest-running traditions and the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company’s largest annual fundraiser.