Chincoteague Island Events
It’s easy to find reasons to celebrate on amazing Chincoteague Island! Our little slice of heaven hosts everything from our famous Pony Swim to our one-of-a-kind Oyster Festival, and you’re always invited to join in the festivities. Check out these upcoming events on C.I. for 2022 and get ready to have some fun! Need help planning your getaway around an event? Give us a call - we’re always here to help, and no one knows our Island better than we do! Find your perfect vacation home and get ready to make some amazing memories.
Search for the Shamrocks
Historic Downtown Main Street
The hunt is on!
Make your way to Chincoteague Island for the second scavenger hunt of the year — Search for the Shamrocks!
Participants will travel to participating businesses all across the island, searching for hidden letters that will help solve a festive riddle. Once you’ve gathered all the clues, cross the finish line with your completed riddle to be entered for a chance to win prizes!
While you’re playing, don’t forget to take your time, explore, and support the amazing local businesses that make our island so special. You never know what treasures you might find along the way!
Grab your friends, bring the family, and let the shamrock searching begin!...
Easter Decoy & Art Festival
Chincoteague Combined School
Held each year to celebrate the history and craft of decoy carving, the 2026 Eater Decoy & Art Festival will take place Friday, April 3rd and Saturday, April 4th! Local and national decoy carvers will be on site showing their latest work, while other artists in categories such as fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, stained glass, pottery, and more will also be present.
Admission is $5.00 each Day.
Children under 12 are FREE!...
Spring Roundup 2026
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company will hold its annual Spring Roundup to perform a routine health check on all of the wild ponies, and to identify any new foals that may have been born. Ponies that were selected as buybacks in last year's Pony Swim that have been held at the Carnival Grounds will also be released back onto Assateague following this Spring Roundup.
On Friday afternoon, our famous Saltwater Cowboys will round up the southern herd of ponies (this takes 1-2 hours), corralling them in the South Pen that's located just in front of the Woodland Trail Parking lot. The ponies will remain in the corral overnight, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to see their favorite ponies up close!
On Saturday morning, the Cowboys will head out to herd the northern herd to corral them in the north pen. Due to the large amount of land that has to be covered to round up this herd, this roundup can take 5-6 hours. The public will be allowed to walk up the Service Road to the cattle grate (3 miles each way), but access further north won't be allowed until the roundup is complete for the safety of the public and the ponies....
Spring Flounder Tournament
Make your way to Chincoteague Island for Captain Steve’s Bait & Tackle's annual Flounder Fishing Tournament, happening April 24th – May 3rd! That’s 12 days of family-friendly fun, island adventures, and unforgettable time on the water. Registration and prize details will be added to the event page as soon as they’re announced, so be sure to check back for updates! With gorgeous spring weather on the way and beach season just beginning, it’s the perfect excuse to get outside, cast a line, and enjoy everything the island has to offer. Whether you’re fishing, cheering on participants, or soaking up the coastal vibes, Chincoteague is calling!...
56th Annual Chincoteague Seafood Festival
Tom's Cove Park
Starts: 10:00 AM ‐ Ends: 4:00 PM
Held the first Saturday in May each year, the Chincoteague Seafood Festival's mission is to promote the seafood industry on Virginia's Eastern Shore. This fun filled event features fresh, local seafood including little neck clams, raw oysters and clams, clam fritters, single fried oysters, fried fish, steamed shrimp, crab cheddar jalapeno poppers, clam chowder, grilled chicken, boardwalk fries, and more!
Live music begins at 12:00, and there will be various arts and crafts vendors selling handmade creations from area artisans.
Tickets are $65 per person (Children under 5 are FREE) and can be purchased on the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce website.
Tickets are limited, and often sell out, so buy early, and reach out to Seaside so we can help you find the perfect place to call home for the weekend!
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National Parks Free Entrance Day
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to Chincoteague to experience a FREE day on the National Wildlife Refuge! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, or hit the trails for some exercise!
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Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company's Carnival
Chincoteague Carnival Grounds
Starts: 7:00 PM
The 2026 Carnival kicks off Thursday, July 2nd for a summer full of rides, arcade games, and delicious food! Check back soon as more information is announced!
Carnival Dates for 2026 are:
July 2nd, 3rd and 4th
July 10th and 11th
July 24th and 25th
July 27th through August 1st
Carnival Hours are 7 PM - 11 PM nightly!...
National Parks Free Entrance Weekend
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to Chincoteague to experience a FREE weekend (July 3rd - 5th) on the National Wildlife Refuge! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, or hit the trails for some exercise as we celebrate America's birthday!...
Music at the Dock:
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in....
4th of July Fireworks
Carnival Grounds @ 3648 Main St.
Make your way to Chincoteague Island to celebrate Independence Day with a good old fashioned fireworks display by the Volunteer Fire Company, Chamber of Commerce, and Town of Chincoteague!
Free shuttle service will be available from Chincoteague High School to the carnival grounds from 6 PM to 12 AM....
Music at the Dock: Southern Frog
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
Misty's Birthday Party
Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce
Come celebrate Misty's birthday right here on Chincoteague Island on July 18th from 2 PM - 4 PM!
A FREE event put together in collaboration by the]Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce and Chincoteague Pony Drill Team, this family friendly event will allow guests to meet Misty III, a descendent of Misty, and see Misty's Ember perform tricks!
Author Kendy Allen will also be present autographing her children's books about Misty's descendants!...
Chincoteague Blueberry Festival
Chincoteague Center
The 38th annual Blueberry Festival will be held July 23rd-25th from 9 AM - 4:30 daily.
This event is the largest fine arts and crafts event on the Eastern Shore of Virginia featuring non-stop live music, and mouthwatering food.
Limited Parking is available at the Chincoteague Center, but additional parking will be at the Chincoteague Elementary and Combined Schools, with trolley service available for 50 cents each way....
Music at the Dock: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
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South Herd RounUp
South Herd Corral
Pony Swim kicks off at 7:00 AM as the Saltwater Cowboys ride out to the southern end of Assateague Island to herd more than 50 ponies that live in this portion of the island. The ponies will be brought to the Southern Corral on the Wildlife Refuge, where the public can await their arrival and get plenty of photos as the ponies stay overnight. ...
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North Herd Roundup
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The North Herd Roundup will take place July 26th, as the Saltwater Cowboys ride across the northern end of Assateague Island, to herd between 100-150 ponies. This roundup is not open to the public for the safety of the ponies and the public. ...
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Beach Walk
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
One of the most beautiful events of an already beautiful week, the Beach Walk has become a favorite of the Seaside family. The Saltwater Cowboys will release the North Herd of ponies at daybreak, and walk them along the shore of the Atlantic to join the South Herd in the South Corral.
The wildlife refuge opens at 5AM, and attendees are advised to arrive as early as possible for parking purposes....
Vet Checks & Buyback Selection
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to the South Corral to see the Chincoteague Ponies receive their vet checks prior to the Pony Swim. Buybacks for the year are also selected this day.
101st Annual Pony Swim
Veterans Memorial Park
The Main Event.
Chincoteague's world famous Pony Swim will take place Wednesday, July 29th at slack tide as we begin another century of tradition. View the Pony Swim on the big screen with thousands of other pony lovers at the Veteran's Memorial Park, or make your way through the Marsh and witness the event front row from Pony Swim Lane!...
Chincoteague Pony Auction
Carnival Grounds
Dreams will come true at 3648 Main Street as the foals born throughout the year are auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. Viewers and bidders are allowed to enter beginning at 6 AM. Any chairs placed prior to then will be removed by law enforcement. ...
Swim Back
The Saltwater Cowboys parade the South Herd on the reverse Parade Route so they can swim back to Assateague Island as Pony Swim week concludes.
Music at the Dock: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stops
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
Music at the Dock: Island Boys
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
National Park Free Entrance Day
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to Chincoteague to experience a FREE day on the National Wildlife Refuge to celebrate the 110th Birthday of the National Park Service ! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean (or sunset over the bay( or hit the trails for some exercise! ...
Music at the Dock: Bobby Black Hat
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
Music at the Dock: C.A.I.S.O.
Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Get ready for another unforgettable summer on the island! The Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and Seaside Vacations & Sales are teaming up once again to bring guests and locals a beloved summer tradition, a series of FREE waterfront concerts at Robert Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, this concert series offers the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy incredible live music from talented regional performers. Whether you’re visiting for a week or taking a long weekend, these concerts are a must-experience part of Chincoteague’s warm-weather charm.
Full 2026 Summer Concert Schedule
July 4: Salisbury Community Band
July 11: Southern Frog
July 25: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys
August 1: Heinz, Outtens, and the F-Stop Stops
August 15: Island Boys
August 29: Bobby Black Hat
September 6: C.A.I.S.O.
Guests are encouraged to circle these dates on their calendars, grab some lawn chairs or a blanket, and settle in for evenings filled with great music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront views. There’s simply nothing like listening to live music while the sun sets over the bay and the salty island breeze rolls in.
...
Fall Roundup 2026
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Starts: 4:30 PM
The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company's Fall Roundup will take place September 25th (South Herd) and 26th (North Herd) to perform health checks on our beloved ponies, and to identify any foals that have been born since July's Pony Swim.
The South Herd Roundup on Friday takes 1-2 hours, and spectators are invited to watch from Beach Road or from the corral.
Saturday's North Herd Roundup takes 5-6 hours. Spectators are allowed to walk up to the cattle grate at anytime of day, but access further north is restricted until the Roundup is complete for the safety of everyone involved....
Endless Summer Cruisin' 2026
Inlet Parking Lot & Convention Center
The 29th annual Endless Summer Cruisin' will take place October 8th-11th in conjunction with annual Hot Rod & Custom Car Show, making it THE place to be for car enthusiasts of all ages!
Boardwalk Cruises, celebrity appearances, and LED light car show, live music and more highlight the weekend with over 500 trophies, plaques, and awards presented....
2026 Oyster Festival
Tom's Cove Park
Starts: 10:00 AM ‐ Ends: 4:00 PM
Celebrate the beginning of oyster season with a day filled with fun, friends, and food!
Enjoy all you can eat seafood, live music from Island Boy, and Extravaganza Raffle, and a Best Space contest that brings so much joy and creativity to the event.
Gates will open at 10:00 AM, with appetizers being served at 11, and seafood tents opening at Noon.
Tickets for the Seafood Festival are $65 per person (Children under 5 are FREE!) and can be purchased on the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce website...
National Wildlife Refuge Week
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Kick off National Wildlife Refuge Week with a day of FREE entry onto the refuge! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, or hit the trails for some exercise! ...
National Park Free Entrance Day
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to Chincoteague to experience a FREE day on the National Wildlife Refuge in honor of Theodore Roosevelt's Birthday! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, or hit the trails for some exercise! ...
National Park Free Entrance Day
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Make your way to Chincoteague to experience a FREE day on the National Wildlife Refuge in honor of Veteran's Day! Head down beach road to see if you can spot the wild ponies roaming, catch a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, or hit the trails for some exercise! ...
Ocean City Running Festival
Get ready to hit the pavement and enjoy the scenic beauty of Ocean City and beyond at the Ocean City Running Festival, now in its fourth year! This exciting festival offers a variety of race options for runners of all levels: 5K 8K Half Marathon Full Marathon Participants will enjoy beautiful, scenic routes that take them along the coast and as far as Assateague State Park, providing unforgettable views of the ocean, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the area. ...
