Pony Swim Guide
Pony Swim Guide – Wednesday, July 30, 2025
The Pony Swim is one of the highlights of Pony Penning Week, where the wild Chincoteague ponies swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island, marking a unique and cherished tradition. Visitors gather to watch the ponies make the swim across the Assateague Channel, guided by the Saltwater Cowboys.
Event Schedule:
Shuttles:
• Start time: To be determined
• End time: One hour after the ponies reach the Carnival Grounds
• Cost: Free
• Details: Shuttles will operate throughout the event, offering transportation to various locations. Check the shuttle map for full route details.
Pony Swim Window:
• Time: 7:00 am – 1:00 pm (subject to change)
• Details: The ponies swim during slack tide, when the water is calm. The swim occurs just south of Veterans Memorial Park along Pony Swim Lane, on the east side of Chincoteague Island.
• Viewing Tip: It’s a muddy area, so wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes or muck boots if you plan to watch from Pony Swim Lane and get there early as possible.
Carnival:
• Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
• Location: Carnival Grounds on Main Street
• Details: The carnival features rides, games, food, live music, bingo, and raffles. The Neptune Pony Raffle Drawing will take place at 7:30 pm at the bandstand. To win the raffle, you must be present, and tickets sell out quickly.
Viewing the Pony Swim:
• Location:
• The swim happens along Pony Swim Lane, located south of Veterans Memorial Park. Attendees can watch as the ponies make the swim to Chincoteague Island.
• Wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes or muck boots to avoid getting muddy.
• Shuttle Service:
• Free shuttle service will run from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm. From 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm, there will be a $0.50 per ride fee.
• Handicap-accessible shuttles will be available for those who need them.
• People staying on the island can catch a shuttle near their accommodations.
• Parking:
• No parking will be available at Veterans Memorial Park for the event. Those with disabilities or those coming for the day should use the Municipal Center (6150 Community Drive) to catch a free shuttle.
• Tour buses should contact the Town office at 757-336-6519 to arrange parking.
• Boat Tours:
• If you’d prefer to see the ponies from the water, charter boats and kayak rentals are available for the swim. These fill up quickly, so it’s advised to reserve your spot as soon as possible.
After the Pony Swim:
• Once the ponies have swum across the Assateague Channel, they will rest for about 45 minutes to an hour before heading to the Carnival Grounds along Main Street.
• The first foal to reach the shore will be crowned King or Queen Neptune, and the foal will be part of a raffle at the Carnival Grounds bandstand at 7:30 pm. Limited tickets are sold for this raffle, and you must be present to win.
Important Notes:
• Pets are not allowed in Veterans Memorial Park or the Carnival Grounds during the event.
• There is no charge to watch the swim or park at the event site, and parking is free provided you use the shuttle service.
Make sure to check the schedule and plan ahead for an exciting and memorable experience during the Pony Swim!
Chincoteague Tourist 