The Royal Canadian Henley Regatta Returns to St. Catharines in August 2027

For more than a century, summer in St. Catharines has meant the return of rowers, racing shells and cheering spectators to the waters of Martindale Pond.

That tradition continues in 2027 when the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta returns from August 1 to 8, bringing an international field of competitive rowers to one of Canada’s most historic rowing venues.

Whether you’re a dedicated rowing fan, supporting an athlete or simply looking for a different kind of summer sporting experience in Niagara, Henley Week offers a chance to see high-level racing from remarkably close to the action.

A Niagara Sporting Tradition More Than 140 Years in the Making

The Royal Canadian Henley is much more than a week of races. It has become part of the sporting identity of St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie, with a history stretching back more than 140 years.

Each summer, rowing clubs and athletes converge on the Henley course to compete for the coveted Henley Gold.

The races take place on Martindale Pond, where spectators can watch crews battle their way down the course toward the finish. Standard Henley races are contested over 2,000 metres, while Masters races use a 1,000-metre course.

Henley Masters — August 1

The 2027 programme begins on Sunday, August 1, with the Henley Masters competition. Masters rowing has become an increasingly international component of Henley. In 2025, participating clubs grew from 41 to 50, with competitors representing five countries and 22 clubs making their first Henley Masters appearance.

Specific entry information and the 2027 Masters programme will be released closer to the event.

Opening Ceremony — August 2

Before Race Week gets underway, the Royal Canadian Henley officially welcomes athletes and visitors with its Opening Ceremony on Monday, August 2. The annual celebration traditionally takes place at the Craig Swayze Memorial Grandstand in Port Dalhousie. The 2026 edition included music, Niagara craft beverages and fireworks over Martindale Pond, with free admission for the public.

Details for the 2027 ceremony have not yet been announced.

Race Week — August 3–8

The main event begins Tuesday, August 3, with six consecutive days of competition running through Sunday, August 8. The scale of Henley becomes apparent once racing begins. The previous edition welcomed more than 1,900 competitors, illustrating just how significant the regatta has become on the Canadian rowing calendar.

For spectators, the attraction isn’t only the competition. Henley Island and nearby Port Dalhousie create a distinctive summer setting, with waterfront areas, Lakeside Park, local restaurants and shops all within the surrounding neighbourhood.

Watching the Racing

Two primary areas give visitors access to the regatta: Henley Island and the Craig Swayze Memorial Grandstand on Main Street in Port Dalhousie. Henley Island provides access near the racing course, while the grandstand offers another perspective on the competition and finish area.

Make It a Niagara Day Trip

For Toronto and GTA visitors, the Royal Canadian Henley can easily become more than a sporting event. Spend a few hours watching the racing, explore Port Dalhousie and its waterfront, stop at Lakeside Park or combine Henley with a longer Niagara getaway.

Even visitors who have never watched competitive rowing may find themselves drawn into the rhythm of race day — crews lining up, spectators watching the course and boats accelerating toward the finish.

More than 140 years after the first Royal Canadian Henley, that combination of competition, tradition and waterfront atmosphere continues to make the regatta one of Niagara’s signature summer sporting events.

2027 Event Details

Royal Canadian Henley Regatta
August 1–8, 2027
Henley Masters: August 1
Opening Ceremony: August 2
Race Week: August 3–8
Location: Martindale Pond / Henley Island, St. Catharines
Grandstand: Craig Swayze Memorial Grandstand, Main Street, Port Dalhousie