The Royal St. John's Regatta is the oldest organized sporting event in North America. It has been a part of Newfoundland history for 185 years. The first record of an organized event is in 1818, but rowing matches were common among ships crews in St. John's Harbour since at least the 1700's.

These days, the Regatta draws crowds of up to 50,000 people annually to the shores of Quidi Vidi Lake. It is widely known as "The Largest Garden Party in the World" because it has been about socializing as much as amateur sport. Concession stands, wheels of fortune, games of chance, and food & drink are just as much part of the Regatta's history as the races. Indeed, many people hardly notice the races, as they are too involved in the merrymaking on the shores of the lake.

This website offers an insight into the history and traditions of the Royal St. John's Regatta. Browse around, look at images, and read articles relating to the Regatta. Click here to learn more about this site.

The crest of the Royal St.John's Regatta has changed over the years as the history of the organization has changed. For example, "supporters" were added in 1993 when the Regatta achieved the "Royal" designation. The supporters, which are half land-, half sea-creature, represent the spirit of Quidi Vidi.

Each part of the crest relates to the history of the Royal St.John's Regatta and to the sport of rowing in Newfoundland. To read more about the crest, click here.