Head of the Charles Regatta

Head of the Charles Regatta

The Head of the Charles Regatta, held annually in Boston since 1965, is the largest two-day rowing event in the world. The 62nd edition runs 17-18 October 2026 on a 4.8 km (3-mile) downstream course on the Charles River, from the Boston University DeWolfe Boathouse to the Eliot Bridge. Over 11,000 athletes in approximately 2,000 boats compete in 61 events across two days.

Unlike Olympic-style regattas where crews race side by side, the Head of the Charles uses a processional time-trial format: boats start at intervals and are timed individually over the course. The winding Charles River, with six bridges and sharp turns, rewards steering skill and river knowledge as much as raw speed. The Anderson Bridge turn, roughly two-thirds through the course, is notorious for catching inexperienced coxswains.

When does the Head of the Charles start? Racing begins at 08:00 EDT on both days. The marquee Championship Eights events take place Saturday afternoon. 08:00 EDT translates to 13:00 BST in London, 14:00 CEST in Berlin, and 21:00 JST in Tokyo.