Head of the Charles Regatta

You don't have to be an oarsman, or even a Harvard guy, to get a thrill out of the Head of the Charles Regatta. Held every year at the end of October, this competition is a grand and colorful spectacle that you will thoroughly enjoy even if you don't know the first thing about crews or shells. The largest two-day regatta in the world, the Head of the Charles draws more than 8,000 athletes from all over the world, many of them at the very top of the rankings. While sometimes, perhaps unfairly, characterized as an elitist sport, rowing is growing in popularity and this regatta accommodates all with races for men and women of all ages and skill levels. There are events for 8-man and 4-man crews as well as doubles and singles. The regatta attracts about a quarter of a million spectators and if the weather is just right – crisp, clear and sunny – it is a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Find yourself a soft spot somewhere along the banks of the Charles and enjoy.