For all the wonderful sights, activities and events that our little island has to experience, it is amazing how many of them can be found in an area just a quarter mile long and a block or two wide. From the stately Bed & Breakfasts at the north, to the bustling waterside activity at the boat ramp and fishing pier, the essence of what makes people fall in love with Chincoteague is easily found wherever you go Downtown.
Bunches of events are currently scheduled downtown, including Pre-school Story Time every Thursday morning, Shakespeare in the Park over Labor Day Weekend, classic movies on the big outdoor screen, and various musical artists sharing their melodies with everyone.
Mother Nature was showing off last week, with a gorgeous display of a double rainbow right over the famous “LOVE” chairs at the Robert Reed Downtown Park. Couples sat on benches catching the gorgeous sunset, and whole families piled into the LOVE chairs to snap a photo with the rainbows. Complete strangers became friends as cameras were hurriedly handed over and passed along to catch the moment before it passed. A mama duck and her itty bitty babies made their way to the water, to the amusement of all the kids (and adults!) in the park.
Cynthia & fam went Downtown last night to hunt Pokemon and watch the sunset. We were pleasantly surprised to find the Community Drum Circle (click here for video) in full swing! There were all sorts of percussion instruments for everyone who had any interest in playing– even little kids dancing around with maracas and tambourines. Residents and visitors alike were joining in with the rhythm, drumming on everything from paint buckets to bongos to picnic tables! It was such a cool thing to experience.
Culinary options vary widely in this corner of Chincoteague! From the family-style local favorite Don’s Seafood, to the ever-popular white tablecloth Bill’s Prime, from “Right Up Your Alley” taco truck, to Saigon Village, the most delicious Vietnamese food I’ve ever had. You’ll also enjoy sweet treats from Mueller’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Lil’ Whippy. The aptly named “Wine Cheese and More” store can make some excellent recommendations on wine or craft beer, and don’t miss the spicy lavender peanut brittle at HollyHocks!
The Island Theater hosts bunches of entertainment events. Blockbuster movies appear alongside $5 Friday Classic Films, with a spattering of local plays, and music acts such as the Tidewater Guitar Orchestra, Jazz Vocalist Rondi Charleston, and the Bill Toms Band.
Chattie’s Lounge, atop Don’s Seafood, is a great place for some local color. They host live music or DJs and dancing most weekends, and a public line-dancing class every Monday at 7.
A new addition is the fishing pier where the old drawbridge used to be. This part of the Chincoteague Channel is a favorite spot to fish if you don’t have a boat, especially at night. Croaker are biting there this week!
As the song says:
So go Downtown
Things will be great when you’re downtown
No finer place for sure, downtown
Everything’s waiting for you