Dad Vail Regatta

Over 100 universities from North America participate in this rowing classic on the Schuylkill. The Dad Vail Regatta, one of the nation’s most historic student athletic events, brings thousands of students and families to Philadelphia [2] each year.

The weekend of activities begins in early May, and hordes of locals and visitors come out to be part of the festivities. The 6,000-foot race winds along the Schuylkill River; the best seats are at the Grand Stand finish line, along Kelly Drive beyond Boathouse Row [3] coming from the Art Museum [4].

The packed bleachers afford a great view, and the atmosphere is bustling with cheering onlookers.