Head of the Hooch Has Remained in Chattanooga

The annual rowing regatta will relocate to the North Shore in 2027 while construction occurs at Ross's Landing.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Head of the Hooch Has Remained in Chattanooga

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Organizers have decided to keep the Head of the Hooch rowing regatta in Chattanooga following commitments from city leaders regarding riverfront development. The event will shift to a new North Shore venue starting in 2027 to accommodate construction work.

Why it matters

The decision preserves a long-standing local rowing tradition that organizers had previously considered moving to Columbus, Georgia. City planners secured the event by providing specific commitments to address venue concerns during the downtown development phase.

The planned construction at Ross's Landing will result in an 18-month closure starting in November 2026. This project necessitates the temporary move of the rowing regatta to the North Shore for the 2027 season.

The players

Head of the Hooch

This is an annual rowing regatta that serves as one of the largest events of its kind in the nation.

City of Chattanooga

The local municipal government manages the downtown riverfront development plans and public venue infrastructure.

The details

To navigate the construction, the regatta will cross the Tennessee River to utilize a North Shore venue. Organizers intend to return to the south shore at Ross's Landing in 2028 upon the completion of the city development project.

November 2026: Construction at Ross's Landing begins.
2027: The regatta will move to the North Shore venue.
2028: The event is projected to return to the south shore.

Market Landscape

This decision reflects a broader trend of cities balancing large-scale urban infrastructure projects with the preservation of historic local events. By retaining the regatta, Chattanooga maintains its competitive edge against rival rowing hubs like Columbus, Georgia.

Attendees and participants should plan for the venue shift to the North Shore starting in 2027. This move ensures the regatta continues locally despite the extended 18-month closure of the traditional south shore site.

The takeaway

Maintaining the regatta in Chattanooga highlights the importance of municipal cooperation in protecting long-term cultural events during periods of urban growth. Residents and visitors should stay informed about the 2027 venue logistics as the construction timeline approaches.

What happens next

Construction at Ross's Landing is scheduled to begin in November 2026, with the regatta's return to the south shore anticipated in 2028 following the completion of the project.