RUN OF THE CHARLES
BOSTON’S PREMIER PADDLE RACE
Race on the Charles for a Boatload of Fun!
Grab your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and choose from four exciting courses for our annual Run of the Charles paddle race.
What is the Run of the Charles?
Every year since 1983, in partnership with Paddle Boston, Charles River Watershed Association hosts hundreds of kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddle boarders for the beloved Run of the Charles.
Held on the last Sunday of April, racers choose between four courses (3-mile, 6-mile, 9-mile, or 14-mile relay) before joining the finish line festivities at the Finish Line RiverFest for food trucks, a beer garden, live music, and more!
Register as an individual or with a group. All skill levels are welcome.
Registration for the 2026 Run of the Charles opens January 1st.
Group & Individual Registrations
Paddlers can register as an individual, group, or relay team.
Corporate Sponsor Registrations
Sponsor Run of the Charles! Contact CRWA Development Manager Emily Reiling at ereiling@crwa.org
Reserve a Space at the
Finish Line Riverfest
Groups and vendors are welcome to reserve a space at the Finish Line Riverfest in Herter Park.
Thank You To Our Sponsors!
Paddle Boston provides rental kayaks, canoes, and SUPs for the Run of the Charles. Reserve your rental for easy coordination during the race! Learn More >>
