While almost everyone knows about the vaunted Boston Marathon, fewer know the importance of what’s about to be played out on Boston’s River Charles this weekend. It’s time for the 48th edition of the Head of the Charles Regatta, billed as “the world’s largest two-day rowing event.”
Set for Saturday, Oct. 20 – Sunday, Oct. 21, the very best place to watch the rowers go at it is the swath of riverbank between the Anderson and Weeks bridges. There’s plenty to do, see and taste while awaiting the swift passage of your favorite crew. That’s because the Head of the Charles is as much a social event as it is a contest of sinew, muscle and mind.
Rowing aficionados will be fascinated by the Rowing & Fitness Expo, located in the Finish Area Launch Site. Some 50 vendors fill the area. They’ll be selling everything from rowing gear to rugby apparel, Brooks Brothers clothing to Sperry Top-Sider shoes.
The expo is held in a massive tent, the same tent that’s home to the regatta’s awards ceremonies and the Heroic Rower Stage.
Athletes need fuel, and so do hungry spectators. That’s why they’ll be heading to the Weld Exhibition, again between the Weeks and Lars Anderson bridges. The warm, wondrous food you’ll find there is a perfect compliment to the crisp fall air. While rain’s forecast for Saturday, a cool front moves through and renders Sunday cool and sunny.
There’s more food to be found in Reunion Village, on the Boston side of the Charles. Not only is this a prime site from which to take in the race the dining tent serves up food, wine and beer – all on a cash-only basis, please. The great thing about Reunion Village is that you get play-by-play commentary on the contest out there on the river.
(Image: hocr.org)
