NEIRA Championship Regatta

Every Memorial Day weekend, the NEIRA Championship Regatta turns Lake Quinsigamond, on the Worcester and Shrewsbury line, into a focused showcase of speed and precision. You watch elite scholastic crews from programs such as Phillips Exeter Academy, Deerfield Academy, and Phillips Academy race for regional titles on one of the country’s most respected courses. Come prepared for an energetic shoreline scene, with thousands of spectators tracking every stroke and finish.

Your best vantage point is Regatta Point Park, where you get a direct view of the finish line and the decisive last 500 meters. We recommend arriving by 7:30 AM to claim a clear spot near the water and to beat the traffic on North Lake Avenue. Racing typically starts around 8:00 AM with morning heats, and you will see a steady flow of shells from top schools, including Nobles and Winsor, moving through qualifying rounds toward the afternoon’s fastest matchups.

Plan to stay through the grand finals, usually scheduled from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, when the pressure is highest and the margins are smallest. Bring binoculars to pick up boats early from mid lake, plus a folding chair, high SPF sunscreen, and a light jacket for shifting lake breezes. Spectator entry at Regatta Point Park is typically free, but on-site parking fills before the first horn, so use nearby overflow lots or rideshare for a smoother arrival.

After the last race, the award ceremonies deliver a clean finish to the day, with trophies that settle the team standings. For the easiest logistics, stay in downtown Worcester or along the Route 9 corridor in Shrewsbury, both just minutes from the course and well placed for post-race dining. You can also book vacation rentals and regional lodging through Lake.com to set up a comfortable base for the holiday weekend.