The open sky, mild weather, and lush greens have long accompanied the tradition of The Phoenix Open, or “The Greatest Show on Grass.” Now called the Waste Management Phoenix Open, this professional golf tournament is a much-anticipated annual event held near the end of January. Known for its relaxed, playful, and exciting atmosphere, this tournament is every golfer’s dream. Here is a local’s guide to the Phoenix Open:
Tournament History
The Phoenix Open, originally the Arizona Open, was first held in 1932, lasting only three years before it was canceled in 1935. However, in 1939, the tournament was revitalized by an enthusiastic member of a local civic organization called The Thunderbirds. Through his immense efforts, Bob Goldwater was able to jumpstart the event, recruiting some of his well-known associates (Bing Crosby and Bob Hope, just to name a few) to play alongside the professional golfers.
Since its reopening, The Phoenix Waste Management Open has been canceled only once for wartime efforts, in 1943. The event has been held at the Phoenix Country Club, the Arizona Country Club, and the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale, where it is played today.
PGA Players
If you’re looking to catch some celebrity sightings, you’re in luck! The Chicago Cub’s Anthony Rizzo, Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps, country music star Chris Lane, and NBA Hall of Famer Jason Kidd will all be out on the green during this historic event. Other participants include Kevin Na, Chris Kirk, Charl Schwartzel, Cody Gribble, and J.J. Spaun will also be playing as part of the Alpha Field.
Birds Nest Concert Series
The Birds Nest Concert Series is four nights of live music over the course of the week of festivities and will feature acts such as Snoop Dogg, the Chainsmokers, Old Dominion, Brandon Lay, Martin Garrix, Lee Brice, and more!
Food and Beverage
Concession stands are located throughout the venue. Spectators can also visit the Fan Zone for lunch, dinner, or larger meals. Alcohol is available, and fans 21 and over are encouraged to drink responsibly. The Open is known equally for golf and a grand party.
Tickets
Thanks to the Ford Free Days, Monday and Tuesday admission is free. Tickets for Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday are sold as single day admission and can be purchased for $45 per person. Friday and Saturday tickets are slightly more expensive, coming in at $60 for a single day admission. Or, fans can select the Weekly Sponsor Package for week-long admission and parking pass for $450. Children 17 and under are free any day, so long as they are accompanied by an adult.
VIP Access
There are two types of VIP Access packages: the Members Club, GreensKeeper, Clubhouse, and Chairman’s Club. Each option provides unique opportunities for fans to enjoy the event, with great perks and exclusive entry.
The Members Club package comes with four members club badges per day, Monday through Sunday, a reserved parking pass, and includes beer, wine, soda, lunch, and snacks all day. Additional badges can be purchased for $150 Monday through Wednesday, or $175 Thursday through Sunday.
Greenskeeper benefits are much more elevated than the Members Club. There are three options: the Greenskeeper Package, Greenskeeper Reserved Tables, and the Greenskeeper Cabana. Each includes week-long credentials, one Valet parking pass (two in the case of Greenskeeper Cabana), and plenty of complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages. Greenskeeper benefits range in price from $3900 to $18500 and include badges for several people.
Clubhouse benefits come in either a four or six pack option, with admission to the Clubhouse, complimentary meals and beverages, Valet parking, and Greenskeeper badges. Clubhouse benefits range in price from $4800 to $6400 and include the entry for four or six individuals.
Chairman’s Club benefits provide the highest level of access to the event, and each badge can be purchased for $6500. The Chairman’s Club badge provides fans with all-day access to nine different venues, as well as Valet parking, and much more.
Parking
There is plenty of parking available to fans at the event, and it’s free! Spectators will also have access to a shuttle to and from the venue. Lots 3 through 9 are available, as well as General Parking WestWorld and General Parking Hayden. Many VIP packages also include reserved parking passes or Valet parking. If you want to avoid parking, consider taking a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft, or a taxi. There will be a taxi bay at the venue for fan convenience.
It’s important to note that rideshare services are widely available, but they are only accessible from one area at the event. Lines can be long, so grab some water on your way out and enjoy the DJ booth while you wait!
Get Ready to Tee-Off
The Phoenix Waste Management open is an accessible, exciting, and fun event for the whole family. With plenty of package options to choose from, celebrities to see, and athletes to watch, it’s no wonder why this event is one of the most highly anticipated golf tournaments in the country. So grab a hat, some sunscreen, and some buddies, and head out to see the Greatest Show on Grass!