Typically, several sets of parents sign up to cook for a regatta.  It usually takes between 4 - 6 parents to cook and serve each meal with others helping out.  People who cook also need to clean up for the next shift. This includes washing dishes, putting away food, and cleaning the grill.  The parents who cook a meal agree on the menu and split up the shopping and cooking.  It's usually good to have some veteran parents cook with some newbie parents so no one is too overwhelmed.