Although autumn is in full swing and October has nearly passed us by, one fall staple event has yet to grace the City of Boston. Saturday, October 18, marks the start of the 50th Head of the Charles Regatta. To help you fully enjoy this event of aquatic athleticism, we put together a map of a few spots worth checking out.
We created the above map for the 2013 regatta but after checking out what’s in store for this year, we decided to renew what we already have. Fret not though, avid rowing enthusiasts, all of the charted the eateries, watering holes, boathouses and transit hubs are completely up to date.
The traditional boat race has attracted rowers and spectators to the banks of the Charles since 1965. With competitors numbering upwards 11,000 strong and a viewer base roughly 40 times as large, the Head of the Charles is a major draw for the Greater Boston area.
Given that 2014 marks the regatta’s semicentennial– 50th anniversary – a number of programming efforts have been ramped up in order to make this year’s race an unforgettable spectacle.
A celebratory gala is scheduled the night of the regatta’s opening from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Buckingham Browne & Nichols School, across the street from the Cambridge Boat Club. Unfortunately, though, if you haven’t purchased a ticket, the swanky reception is sold out and the waiting list is full.
Fans will, however, be able to check out a new HOCR 50th History Exhibit near Hospitality Row throughout the entire weekend. The showcase will feature a number of historic artifacts, old photos and miscellaneous regatta items to help enthusiasts gain a deeper insight into how the race has helped shape the region and vice versa.
“No one could have envisioned how big this event would become when it was started, back in 1965, by a few members of the Cambridge Rowing Club. But this will be a spectacular year for the Regatta, and one that reaffirms the event as New England’s most celebrated fall tradition,” said Head Of The Charles Executive Director Fredrick Schoch in a statment. “We’ve been planning for this weekend for years – October will be the culmination of a half century of historic rowing on Boston’s famed Charles River, and fans will be delighted by what the Regatta has in store.”
If you plan on heading over to the Charles for a weekend of rowing, also be sure to keep an eye out for a rowing and fitness expo; various food samplings from across the globe; and Reunion Village, which marks the confluence of the race offering clubs, schools, alumni groups, parents, boosters and more – like the opportunity to catch up with friends in a fun and relaxed environment.
To stay completely up to date on all of the Head of the Charles race results and events throughout the weekend, be sure to check out our comprehensive coverage right here.
