Why Not Celebrate Your Christmas By The Sea?

Christmas is meant to be magical — and on Chincoteague Island, that magic feels a little brighter, a little warmer, and a whole lot more meaningful. In a world where family time is harder to come by, Christmas By the Sea offers a chance to slow down, reconnect, and savor the moments that matter most.

Chincoteague is a place where holiday traditions meet coastal charm. Where twinkling lights reflect off the water, where ponies roam nearby on Assateague, and where every event feels like it was created just for you and your family. It’s small‑town Christmas wrapped in seaside beauty — a combination you won’t find anywhere else.

From the official Christmas tree lighting the Saturday after Thanksgiving to the exhilarating Polar Pony Plunge on New Year’s Day, the season is packed with festive fun. Holiday markets, craft fairs, parades, Santa visits, glowing drive‑thru displays, and the beloved Horseshoe Drop on New Year’s Eve — many of them free and open to all — make every day feel like a celebration.

Most importantly, Chincoteague welcomes you like family. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to a place that already feels like home, you’ll find kindness, community, and memories that last long after the season ends.

So why not celebrate your Christmas by the Sea in Chincoteague, VA? Because here, the holidays aren’t just observed — they’re cherished.

Our mission:

  • Family Connection: Create meaningful experiences that bring families closer.
  • Community Pride: Celebrate the people, history, and spirit of Chincoteague Island.
  • Welcoming Spirit: Invite visitors to feel at home and become part of our story.