“Chincoteague Pony Swim Takes Center Stage on 2025 Virginia Travel Guide Cover!”

The legendary Chincoteague Pony Swim will adorn the cover of the 2025 Virginia Travel Guide as it marks its centennial this July. This yearly event, coordinated by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, has evolved into a hallmark attraction that draws thousands of tourists to Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

The custom began in 1925 in response to two catastrophic fires that impacted Chincoteague’s downtown in the early 1920s. A group of twenty-five local individuals established the volunteer fire company and launched the carnival and pony swim to fundraise for essential firefighting gear. Their inaugural event attracted approximately 15,000 attendees, establishing a legacy that endures to this day.

International acclaim came to the event through Marguerite Henry’s 1946 children’s book “Misty of Chincoteague” and its 1961 film adaptation. In 2023, the Chincoteague Ponies were officially recognized as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Official Pony.

The weeklong festivities, taking place on July 30-31, 2025, will showcase numerous activities including the South and North Herd Roundups, Beach Walk, veterinary assessments, and the primary attractions – the Pony Swim and Auction. During the swim, saltwater cowboys guide the well-known ponies across the Assateague Channel as viewers observe from Veterans Memorial Park, Pony Swim Lane, and various boats.

“Pony Penning is a charming season, rich in historical significance,” remarked Joanne Moore, Executive Director of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce & Certified Visitor Center. “This year is destined to be even more extraordinary as the fire company and community are orchestrating special activities to honor this centennial milestone.”

The 2025 Virginia Travel Guide, which will be available free at Virginia State Welcome Centers and online at Virginia.org, will include personal insights and stories from writers and local enthusiasts. Virginia Tourism President and CEO Rita McClenny conveyed excitement about highlighting the event, accentuating its importance in showcasing the Commonwealth’s distinctive attractions.

“It is a tremendous privilege for our Chincoteague ponies to be highlighted in the Virginia Travel Guide, and the entire Eastern Shore of Virginia is thrilled to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Chincoteague Pony Swim this year,” stated Robert Sabbatini, the Executive Director of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission. “The pony swim possesses immense historical and cultural value to the Eastern Shore, and now draws visitors from across the globe. We eagerly anticipate the 100th Anniversary!”

Those intending to participate in the centennial festivities can find comprehensive event details and schedules on the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce website or via the Chincoteague App. The annual carnival will extend over 16 nights, showcasing two fireworks displays as part of the anniversary celebration.