The Royal St. John's Regatta is North America's oldest annual sporting event. It has been a part of Newfoundland history for almost 200 years. The first record of an organized event was in 1816, but rowing matches were common among ships crews in St. John’s Harbour since at leats the 1700’s. The even take place on the shores of Quidi Vidi Lake. The holiday is celebrated primarily by Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Regatta
Even though this is a holiday primarily for Newfoundland and Labrador, this event draws over 50,000 people each year on the first Wednesday in August. As long as weather conditions are favorable, the event is held and the crowds will gather to watch. This rowing race is a big part of the history of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Quidi Vidi lake is where the rowing race takes place and where the people gather to watch the event.
Local Holiday
It is not a public holiday and all public offices are still open on the first Wednesday of August. It is just a fun event that has a lot of heritage.
For more information regarding event and history please visit official The Royal St. John's Regatta website.