Regatta Day Timeline

1816

The first Regatta Day race

While rowing matches on St. John's Harbor date back to the 1700s, this marks the first time an organized race is documented in the region.

1860

A royal visit on Regatta Day

Prince Albert Edward attends the races. To this day, Regatta Day is among the races always attended by members of the British monarchy.

1978

Regatta Day date changed

Regatta Day temporarily moves from August to July to accommodate the visit of Prince Phillip and Queen Elizabeth II.

1993

Regatta Day honors ties with the British monarchy

Regatta Day is given the Royal designation in 1993 to respect the close relationship between Canada and the British monarchy.