Become a Food Vendor

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Food Vendor at the 2025 Head Of The Charles Regatta, taking place October 16–19, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to be part of one of Boston’s most iconic events and the world’s largest rowing competition, drawing over 325,000 spectators and 12,000 athletes.

We’re curating a “Taste of Boston, Cambridge, and New England” to showcase the region’s culinary excellence. Our goal is to create a memorable, high-quality food experience that appeals to athletes, families, and global spectators alike.

Questions? Email regatta@hocr.org

• Key Dates

  • Applications Open: May 15, 2025
  • Applications Close: June 15, 2025
  • Vendor Selections Announced: By July 1, 2025
  • Vendor Orientation (Virtual): Early October

• Operating Requirements

  • Required Days: Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19
  • Optional Days: Thursday, October 16 and Friday, October 17 (limited slots)
  • Rain or Shine Event – No Refunds

  Racing takes place between 7:45 am to 5pm Friday through Sunday; required operating hours may vary based on vending location and menu, but vendors should expect to operate full days.

• Available Services

  INCLUDED SERVICES

  • Dedicated vending space in high-traffic areas along the course
  • WiFi access
  • Electrical power (first 20-amp circuit provided, additional power requirements billed at cost)
  • Custom HOCR-branded menu toppers for on-site display

  SERVICES BILLED SEPARATELY

  • Electrical hookups (electrical cords and extra amps)
  • Access to water (limited)
  • Tent structures available at cost (includes options for flooring, sidewalls, etc.)
  • Back of house equipment available at cost
  • Use of HOCR’s POS system

   

• Policies & Eligibility

  All vendors must:
  

  • Pay a deposit upon acceptance which serves as a minimum guarantee toward a share of gross revenue to HOCR
  • Rent tenting structure through HOCR if not a Food Truck or Cart
  • Be fully licensed and insured with a valid Certificate of Insurance listing HOCR and Cambridge Boat Club as additionally insured
  • Adhere to HOCR trash, recycling and composting policies. You will receive a list of detailed guidelines in advance of the festival that must be observed.
  • Use compostable products (utensils, plates, cups, etc.)
  • Have valid ServSafe and Allergen certifications
  • Operate a clean, professional, and efficient tent, truck, or trailer setup
  • Utilize HOCR’s electronic point of sale system
  • Secure a temporary food establishment permit
  • Submit a menu with pricing for written approval (once accepted)

  Vendors may be asked to sell sponsor products (e.g., bottled water, energy drinks, etc.), purchased at wholesale cost

  Vendors may not sell items that conflict with sponsor exclusivities or sustainability guidelines (e.g., bottled water, energy drinks, etc.)

• Application & Next Steps

  Apply Here

  Next Steps:

  Applications will be reviewed and vendors will be notified of acceptance by July 15, 2025.

  If selected, you will receive a contract with full event terms and invoice for the Minimum Guarantee deposit. Payment is due upon receipt.

  Vendor space is not confirmed until the deposit and signed agreement are received.

  Limited spots are available. We curate based on quality, uniqueness, and operational readiness