Charleston, the capital city of West Virginia, serves as host to the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta as tens of thousands of people gather on Kanawha Boulevard to enjoy looking at the boats, taking a Sternwheeler Ride on the Sprit of South Charleston, unique local food and music! Along with the river centered events, the Regatta features nightly concerts featuring national acts. The Taste of Charleston begins the event a week before featuring local cuisine, while the United Way presents Ice Cream on the CASCI lot on Sunday – bringing all new flavors for children and adults to enjoy!! These four days of Labor Day activities are the official goodbye to summer.
The first Regatta was founded by Nelson Jones and held on Labor Day – 1971. This event originally began as a way to celebrate the great Kanawha River’s history and the charm of the Sternwheeler boats paddling along its banks.
There are activities for everyone; children carnival rides, Thursday Gospel Sing at Municipal Auditorium, the AARP Power Walk, the 15-mile Charleston Distance Run and the community spirit of the Grand Feature Parade. Throw in the hot air balloon’s night glow and lift-off – and the photo opportunities abound!!!
Plan on joining the fun every Labor Day week-end along the banks of the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia!! A wonderful way to end the summer!!
Go to the Calendar of Events and simply click on the events that interest you. As we get closer to Labor Day all the event information will be there for you to plan accordingly. Also watch for our special hotel packages – all located within walking distance of the Regatta activities.
Enjoy!!
The Regatta is located on Kanawha Boulevard in downtown Charleston. Exit northbound I-64 at Virginia Street - one way eastbound. As Virginia Street runs parallel to the Boulevard you need to only drive three blocks until you are in the Regatta area.
Driving southbound on I-79 or I-77 - get off at the Civic Center exit. Turn left onto Lee Street headed eastbound for three blocks turning right onto Summers Street and heading straight to the Boulevard.
2007 welcome
