Attraction Guide: Chincoteague Pony Swim & Auction, Chincoteague, United States

Chincoteague Pony Swim & Auction Guide

A Chincoteague Tradition: Witness the Annual Pony Swim & Auction Guide

Experience a truly unique and unforgettable event at the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim & Auction. This time-honored tradition, held every July, sees the "Saltwater Cowboys" swim the wild Chincoteague ponies from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. The foals are then auctioned off to raise money for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which manages the herd. Witness the spectacle of the ponies swimming across the channel, feel the excitement of the auction, and be a part of this cherished community event. The Pony Swim & Auction dates back to the 1920s and originated as a way for local ranchers to round up and manage the wild ponies on Assateague Island. Over time, it evolved into a fundraising event for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The ponies are descendants of horses that likely arrived on the island centuries ago, possibly shipwrecked Spanish horses. The annual swim and auction have become a symbol of Chincoteague Island and a beloved tradition for generations of locals and visitors alike. The main event is the pony swim, which takes place on the last Wednesday of July. Thousands of spectators gather along the channel to watch the "Saltwater Cowboys" guide the ponies across the water. The foals are then auctioned off on the following day. In addition to the swim and auction, there are numerous other activities taking place throughout the week, including carnival rides, games, and food vendors. The event is a celebration of community, tradition, and the unique bond between the people of Chincoteague and the wild ponies.