In addition to the impressive displays of rowing ability, spectators are also drawn to the regatta by a wide assortment of food vendors and corporate-sponsored tents and activities. This year, Charles Schwab, EDS, Sprint, and Polo Sport, are some of the companies who will help finance this once-a-year crew extravaganza.

"It definitely has a festival-like atmosphere," said Harvard lightweight Coach Charles Butt. Butt competed in the race 20 years ago and is looking forward to his 15th Head of the Charles as a coach.

The sheer size of the crowds that contribute to this atmosphere can be both a benefit and a detriment to the Harvard community. For some, it is a welcome change.

"In comparison with the typically tame atmosphere on campus, the chaos of the Head of the Charles provides a refreshing bustle of activity and excitement," said Neil Shah '03. "It's clearly one of the most invigorating weekends of the year."

However, with all of the excitement and commotion caused by throngs of crew-crazy enthusiasts, security is a central concern. This year, as in years before, the Yard will be in lockdown and will only be accessible to those carrying a Harvard ID and immediate guests of ID holders. This precaution is typically met with resentment, especially among first-years.

"Last year, I felt like a prisoner in my own home," said Mike Bookman '03.

Despite this inconvenience, though, this coming weekend will afford many undergraduates a nice time to enjoy themselves blissfully before the crunch of midterms and the advent of tortuously cold weather.

"It's going to be a blast," said David J. Ganitsky '03. "It's great to get a chance to just eat, relax, and be outdoors."