Foal number 56, a bay pinto filly, was sold to The Buyback Friends of the Chincoteague Ponies for a record-breaking $100,000

The centennial Chincoteague Pony Swim is taking place on July 30, but a whole week of events precedes the swim.

Thousands of visitors from across the country gathered in Chincoteague to watch the 100th annual pony swim. Many arrived before dawn, drawn by tradition, wild ponies, and memories inspired by the beloved Misty book series.

Before houses, shops and attractions lined Main Street on Chincoteague Island, there once stood an ice cream shop, a hotel, a post office and a factory. Just over 100 years ago, the island was filled with dirt roads and wood and brick buildings, according to assistant director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island Cindy Faith. “It looks sort of like any movie set that you would have seen out west depicting the turn of the century,” Faith said. 

This year’s Pony Swim will mark the 100th anniversary of ponies crossing the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. 

As the Chincoteague Pony Swim celebrates its 100th anniversary this summer, town officials have announced updated security measures following online threats mentioned by the mayor.

Thousands gather at Assateague Channel for the historic event, drawing travelers from across the country to witness the beloved tradition organized by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.

Before houses, shops and attractions lined Main Street on Chincoteague Island, there once stood an ice cream shop, a hotel, a post office and a factory. Just over 100 years ago, the island was filled with dirt roads and wood and brick buildings, according to assistant director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island Cindy Faith. “It looks sort of like any movie set that you would have seen out west depicting the turn of the century,” Faith said. 

Chincoteague ponies prepped for historic 100th swim as crowds gather for annual tradition.