The 52nd annual Head of the Trent Weekend – a time-honoured tradition at Trent University – returns September 29 through October 1, with a full schedule of on campus events on the river, in the stadium, at the podium, and on the stage. 

“Head of the Trent Weekend is one of our most loved traditions, where everyone comes together on our campus to cheer on our athletes, connect with friends, and celebrate the many wonderful things about our University,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Development. “We’re looking forward to showcasing the best the green and white has to offer with more on campus events than ever before.” 

Head of the Trent (HOTT) centres on the long-running rowing regatta, hosted by the Peterborough Rowing Club. Started by former Trent student and Trent Rowing Club founder, Chris Leach ’70, the first Head of the Trent Regatta saw just 13 boats racing down the Otonabee. This year, more than 600 boats are expected to compete on Saturday and Sunday, making the Head of the Trent Regatta one of the largest on the North American rowing circuit. 

Something for Everyone at HOTT

Matching the energy on the water, the Symons Campus will be a hive of activity during Head of the Trent Weekend. 

• The Stadium: Home of the Trent Excalibur 

• Trent Excalibur varsity games: 

• Women’s rugby faces off against York University Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. 

• Women’s soccer takes on the University of Ottawa Saturday at 1:00 p.m. 

• Men’s soccer vs. Toronto Metropolitan University Saturday at 3:15 p.m.  

• Men’s rugby battles RMC Saturday at 7:00 p.m.  

• The first 50 Trent students at the Justin Chiu Stadium for each game on Saturday will get special Head of the Trent swag. 

• Alumni volleyball stars return for a friendly match at 9:00 a.m. Saturday in the Athletics Centre Gym. 

• The Stage: Live music and good food 12:00 p.m. — 7:00 p.m. 

• Sponsored by the Trent University Alumni Association, the Stage is all ages and family-friendly event with a large unlicensed area.  

• Grab some food from The Trend, Pie Hole Pizza, and Drum Rock Jerk. 

• Dance and groove to live music from HOTT favourites like Washboard Hank & Reverend Ken, and rising stars like Jordy Jackson. 

• Supporting Trent University Rowing Club, the 19+ licensed area will be serving a limited-edition Head of the Trent Portside Lager from Publican House. 

• Grab your 2023 collector's edition HOTT mug, and regatta merchandise.  

• The Podium: Alumni Headquarters and Campus Gateway  

• Calling all alumni! Check in at the Alumni Welcome Tent to take advantage of exclusive perks and pick up HOTT merchandise; and stop by the Ceilie for an alumni-exclusive gathering and The Commoner Reunion commemorating 25 years since the first campus pub closed. 

• Stop by Trent’s five colleges for art tours, grand openings, pep rallies and more. 

• Join the Trent African Caribbean Student Union Dance Party by Alumni House, featuring a performance by the TACSU Dance Team.  

Celebrating Safely and Responsibly

The University emphasizes the importance of celebrating Head of the Trent Weekend safely and responsibly. Trent works closely with the City of Peterborough, emergency services, our student unions, and the Peterborough Police, to encourage and ensure safe, respectful celebrations on campus and in our community. The University encourages all members of our community to take part in the official HOTT 2023 on campus. 

Recognizing the Third Annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation  

This year, Head of the Trent overlaps with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Trent will be observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, October 2, when more of the campus community can participate in the education and reflection events, and importantly, staff are available to offer support as needed. On September 30, in recognition of this important day, Trent varsity athletes will wear orange warmup jerseys and a moment of silence will be held before the first varsity game begins. Orange lapel pins are also available at the stadium, the Rowing Club, and the Alumni Welcome Tent on Bata Podium. 

For more information about Head of the Trent Weekend, including the full schedule of events, visit trentu.ca/headofthetrent.