Chincoteague Christmas One of Chincoteague Island’s best kept secrets includes annual winter traditions. Three people, Steve Potts, Kevin Krome, and Lynn Neilson, were the driving force and masterminds behind what many know as Christmas by the Sea. Steve Potts, Managing Partner and Catering Coordinator at Bill’s Restaurant, explains it best. “It all started when the Town of Chincoteague asked us to help to raise money for the town Christmas lights. Kevin and I went to businesses, civic groups, and individuals who generously gave to help light up the town for the holidays. Since we were getting new lighting, we thought why not promote the season along with events that were already happening at the holidays and hopefully extend the shoulder season and attract visitors to dine shop, stay, and play? We felt that by marketing all of the holiday events under the name Christmas by the Sea and the tag line....Even a COOL day at the beach....beats a day at work! would be beneficial to all. Within 5 years, Christmas by the Sea and the familiar Santa Hat logo have become icons for the holidays on Chincoteague.”
Events to look forward to include: Annual Tree Lighting
(sponsored by the Main Street Merchants)
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade (Chincoteague Chamber)
Holiday Home Tour (Laurie Walton)
Tea with Mrs. Claus
(Christmas by the Sea)
The Great Gingerbread Challenge (Chincoteague Center)
Pony Island Horseshoe Drop (Christmas by the Sea)
Polar Pony Plunge
(Christmas by the Sea)
For more information about Christmas by the Sea, please email info@chincoteaguechristmas.com or visit www.chincoteaguechristmas.com. 32