A Spectator’s Guide to Head of the Charles

For the crew-obsessed, it’s not the changing leaves along Fresh Pond or the start of Patriots football that indicates a shift in the seasons. It’s the legendary migration of thousands of rowers to Cambridge hoping to claim the glory of winning the Head of the Charles regatta. For the 59th year in a row, the world’s largest rowing event will draw thousands of spectators to Cambridge to bask in the electric atmosphere of the unique athletic pageant.

But, the Head of the Charles is about much more than rowing. While the rowers take to the water — with more than 12,000 athletes competing, making it one of the largest sporting tournaments in the world — HOCR viewers have the privilege of enjoying a panoply of attractions on the banks of the river, from food to drink to crew-themed merchandise. Consider this guide your all-day roadmap to a successful HOCR.

The Nitty Gritty Details

If you're thinking of driving into Cambridge for the race, think again. Parking will be nothing short of a nightmare. As an alternative, the Red Line will drop you off only three blocks from the finish line, near the main vendor tents, the most exciting viewing point.

If you are determined to see the start of the race, take the Green Line to Blandford Street. If you are determined to drive, there will be limited parking on a first come first serve basis at Harvard Stadium, gate 14, for $30/hour. There is also street parking in Cambridge, but it is hard to find a spot on an average weekend and will be even harder during the races.

Luckily, HOCR’s deep well of partnerships has you covered even if you forget to open the weather app and find yourself shivering. The beginning and end of HOCR merchandise is the iconic partnership with Vineyard Vines. If you’re not already familiar with smiling whales and preppy quarter-zips, time to embrace the Good Life.

The Vineyard Vines tent will be located at the Eliot Bridge Enclosure, enmeshed within the rowdiest viewing area. If you have the money to spare, the brand’s limited edition cashmere sweaters are sure to draw admiration from fellow spectators. The outlet also carries HOCR-themed T-shirts and hats for under $50.

Bright and Early

The races start every day at the BU BoatHouse at 7:45 am. For early risers, there are plenty of breakfast food options. Café Juice Up will be serving smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and acai bowls from their vendor tent. For those looking for a sweeter breakfast, Zinneken's is located just a few blocks from the river and has mastered the delicate art of the perfect waffle.

The morning is the perfect time to walk along the river and appreciate the gallantry of the event — especially with the way the racing schedule stacks up. On both Friday and Saturday morning, most of the early races are veterans races, testaments to the intergenerational pull of the water.

On the first day of competition, the last race starts at 10:28 a.m., creating the perfect conditions for a late-morning brunch after the action concludes. If you’re looking for somewhere to put your feet up following the morning of activity, check out The Friendly Toast, a new brunch spot located at 1230 Massachusetts Avenue — a swanky, retro ode to old diners serving up craft drinks and tasty concoctions.

On Saturday, the packed morning schedule means that some meal-planning will be required in order to catch the height of the action; after the masters races wrap up, club races kick off at 12:35 p.m. On the closing day of racing, a must-watch is the men’s and women’s championship fours, which start at 12:40 p.m. and 1:10 p.m., respectively.

The Stretch Run

The official food and beverage area of the race, FALS Bar, will be serving a curated food and drink menu including some New England favorites: clam chowder and lobster rolls. In the late afternoon and evening spectators can enjoy beer, wine, and cocktails. The finish line is typically the most action-packed (and the booziest) part of the race; it’s the place to be.

The last starting gun of the day is at 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday, giving you plenty of time to explore Harvard Square before an evening dinner. There are lots of food options for dinner in the square. Visit Hourly Oyster House for sensational seafood, Smoke Shop for brilliant barbeque, Source for incredible Italian, or Grafton Street for amazing American grub. If you are looking for an authentic Harvard nighttime experience, visit JP Licks for some ice cream to cap off the day.

As the crowd dissipates, headed back to far-flung parts of the United States and the world, we hope that you made cherished memories. Whatever stage of life you’re in — from HOCR newbie to proud rowing alumnus to seasoned tournament veteran — the Charles River has something for you.

—Staff writer Josephine Elting can be reached at josephine.elting@thecrimson.com.

—Staff writer Jack Silvers can be reached at jack.silvers@thecrimson.com.