Chincoteague Pony Swim

Held on the last Wednesday of July since 1925, when the volunteer fire company turned an old roundup into a fundraiser. Saltwater cowboys herd the wild ponies from Assateague across the channel at slack tide, the herd swims the narrow crossing, and the foals are auctioned the following day to keep the herd at its permitted size.

Tens of thousands of people come for it. The swim itself lasts a few minutes and happens early, and the whole island books out months ahead.

Book accommodation a year in advance, arrive before dawn for a viewing spot at Memorial Park, and be prepared for heat, crowds and marsh mud. Exact timing depends on the tide and is announced shortly beforehand.