Events Calendar

North meets south when the "Saltwater Cowboys" release the North Herd of Chincoteague Ponies at daybreak and walk them along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean to join the South Herd ponies in the South Corral.

It is advised to be at Assateague Island National Seashore by 6am for parking purposes. Assateague Island opens at 5am. Bring your beach gear and stay for the day or walk behind the ponies to the corral and visit awhile. Bikers and hikers may access the beach via Swan Cove Trail.

Learn more about Pony Swim HERE - including the Official Pony Swim Guide with helpful hints, full schedule of events, updated maps and logistics, tips for getting the most out of the week, and details on security measures, road closures, trolley schedule, and shuttle stops.

This information is verified by and provided in partnership between the Town of Chincoteague, Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, and Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce.

PLEASE NOTE: No pets or emotional support animals are permitted on the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge; even in your vehicle. Service animals specifically trained to aid a disabled person are permitted. 

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company will host their 101st Annual Carnival on July 2-4, 10-11, 24-25, and 27-31, August 1, 2026 from 6pm - 10pm nightly!

Food, Fun, Games, Raffles & Attractions for the Entire Family - Chincoteague Island style! A great variety of food is available for purchase including oyster and clam fritter, soft crab, crab cake, and fish sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, pony fries, soft serve ice cream, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, caramel corn, and more. Rides and games for all ages. Live entertainment on the band stage. Try your luck at Bingo too.

Ride tickets will be $1.50 each, 20 tickets for $25, 30 tickets for $35, 40 tickets for $45, and 50 tickets for $55

July 2- Opening night ceremony at TBD

July 4 - Fireworks at 9:15 (inclement weather date TBD) 

July 24 - Neptune Raffle Ticket Sales Begin - Raffle tickets for King or Queen Neptune, the first pony not already designated as a buyback pony to come ashore on Chincoteague Pony Swim day, will be on sale at the Information Stand at the Carnival Grounds! Tickets are a $1 each, no matter how many tickets are purchased. Limited tickets are sold, so purchase yours before they sell out.  

July 29 - Neptune Raffle Drawing - Will take place Wednesday night at approximately 7:30pm at the band stand. Please note, this is the ONLY raffle that you MUST be present to win!

All proceeds of the carnival benefit the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. ATM on site and credit cards are accepted.

PLEASE NOTE: No pets or emotional support animals are permitted on the Chincoteague Carnival Grounds, even in your vehicle. Service animals specifically trained to aid a disabled person are permitted. 

The Fireman's Carnival leads up to the world famous Pony Swim and Auction always held on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July! Learn more here.