Perhaps the most thrilling three days of the calendar in Boston, the annual Head of the Charles Regatta returns to the banks of its namesake waterway October 17–19. A fall staple since 1965, this prestigious rowing competition welcomes crews and spectators from all over the planet to take part in the largest event of its kind in the world. While thousands of athletes battle the current and each other, the tens of thousands of expected visitors can mix and mingle at a variety of prime gathering spots to enjoy food and drink, browse the latest gear and, of course, cheer on the rowers. Favorite viewing perches include the start line at the Boston University DeWolfe Boathouse, the Weeks Footbridge at the race course’s famed 90-degree turn and Herter Park, which lies at the conclusion of the 4,702-meter course. Along the way, enjoy special hospitality areas such at the Weld Exhibition at Riverbend Park, the ticketed Eliot Bridge Enclosure at Hospitality Row and Attager Row’s Rowing & Fitness Expo at Herter Park, all of which enhance what is already of the city’s greatest annual sporting spectaculars.
