Head of the Schuylkill Regatta
The picturesque Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, one of the largest rowing competitions in the world, takes place annually during the fall in Fairmount Park.
Bringing together more than 9,000 athletes and upwards of 30,000 spectators, the festive two-day event features college crews, high school crews, master rowers, elite rowers and previous world champions — it’s a chance for both highly experienced and brand-new rowers to hit the water together in a single inclusive event.
The 2021 regatta takes place October 29-30.
Head of the Schuylkill Regatta — Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
The Head of the Schuylkill regatta brings thousands of athletes to Philadelphia every year.
What began as a single-day, 180-competitor race in the 1970s has grown into a two-day festive celebration often referred to as America’s favorite regatta.
More than 30,000 friends, family and spectators typically attend each year.
— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
The 2.5-mile race course runs along scenic Kelly Drive and allows for many great vantage points. The course starts near Twin Bridges and runs downriver, ending between the Girard Bridge and Boathouse Row.
Race organizers recommend watching the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta races near the Playing Angels Statue, which is about a mile from the finish line at the intersection of Kelly Drive and Fountain Green Drive.
Parking nearby is limited and Kelly Drive closes to traffic, so the best bet for those attending is to walk or use public transportation. Offsite parking is available for a fee, and a free shuttle (yellow buses marked “HOSR Regatta Shuttle”) runs continuously, taking people from parking areas to the regatta site.
Note that there is no cost for admission to watch the rowing action. Guests should just arrive, find a great vantage point and take in the exciting Philadelphia tradition.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package to make the most of this two-day affair. The perks-packed fall getaway serves as the perfect base itinerary for a weekend in Philadelphia.
For more information about the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, click the button below.
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.