Experience the Waste Management Phoenix Open
Phoenix, Arizona, is a great place to visit any time of year, but when golf events like the Waste Management Phoenix Open come to town, you’re in for an even more exciting time! Whether you’re an avid golf fan yourself or it’s your first time attending a tournament, the WM Phoenix Open is a great pick for anyone.
Arizona is known for its year-round golf conditions, but there’s no better time to visit this golfer’s paradise than during the Open. Gather with other lively fans at one of the best golf tournaments in the nation—and maybe you’ll see a hole-in-one while you’re there. The best part? You can feel good about attending; the tournament is both a fundraiser and a zero-waste event, so you’re helping raise money for a good cause without putting even further stress on the environment. It’s a win-win!
Looking to attend the tournament this year? How exciting! Below, we’ve detailed everything you need to know about the Open so you can have an absolute blast.
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In this piece:
- What is the Waste Management Phoenix Open?
- Is the WM Phoenix Open in Phoenix or Scottsdale?
- What is the Famous 16th Hole?
- When is the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open?
- Is it True That the Tournament is a Zero-Waste event?
- WM Phoenix Open Named “Event of the Year” in PGA Tour’s 2025 “Best Of” Awards
- How Much Money Does the Tournament Raise?
- How Much Does It Cost to Attend?
- What Time Does the Tournament Start?
- Is February a Good Time to Golf in Arizona?
- Book Your Phoenix Vacation Directly with Arizona Elite Vacation Rentals!
What is the Waste Management Phoenix Open?
The Waste Management Phoenix Open (formerly the Phoenix Open) is one of the top professional golf tournaments in the United States. It’s famous for its rowdy crowds along the course, especially at the 16th hole! The tournament is also known as “The People’s Open” because of its friendliness (the party vibes starkly contrast with more traditional golf tournaments). If you attend, you’ll have a grand time with other attendees! On top of the atmosphere, it’s also the largest zero-waste sporting event in the world.
Is the WM Phoenix Open in Phoenix or Scottsdale?
Great question! The tournament was held between Scottsdale and Phoenix for a while (1932-1986), but it moved to its permanent home at TPC Scottsdale in 1987.
What is the Famous 16th Hole?
There is a very famous 16th Hole at TPC Scottsdale that really makes the tournament. Nicknamed “The Coliseum”, it’s a short par-3 with grandstands around it, making for an electrifying atmosphere. Tiger Woods scored a hole-in-one here in 1997 during the third round of the Open, and spectators are always on the lookout for who could be next to score the impressive eagle (or double-birdie, whichever you’d prefer). Twelve players have achieved the feat so far, with the most recent being Emiliano Grillo in 2025.
When is the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open?
The People’s Open takes place the first week of February every year. In 2026, the tournament runs from February 2nd to 8th.
Is it True That the Tournament is a Zero-Waste event?
Yes! In fact, people wear green on the Saturday of the Open for two reasons: to represent the money that’s donated, as well as what Waste Management achieves to make it a zero-waste event. It’s the largest zero-waste sporting event of its kind, and all waste from the tournament is diverted from landfills by recycling, composting, donation, and energy conversion. The WM Phoenix Open sets a new standard for sustainability in sporting events!
WM Phoenix Open Named “Event of the Year” in PGA Tour’s 2025 “Best Of” Awards
For the sixth time, the WM Phoenix Open was named “Event of the Year” by the PGA Tour. This is the fourth time they’ve earned the honor in the last five years!
“Event of the Year” recognizes a tournament that excels in every category, from fan and player experience to charitable impact and title sponsor integration/activation. Ahead of the awards, tournament executives made careful improvements to the event with the motto of “Better, not Bigger”, focusing on attention to detail rather than just increasing the Open’s size. It’s clear that their hard work pays off consistently!
How Much Money Does the Tournament Raise?
Last year, the 2025 edition of the festival raised a record-breaking $18.1 million for local charities. This marked the highest single-year total in tournament history!
How Much Does It Cost to Attend?
The tournament actually offers free admission on Monday and Tuesday, making the event accessible for all community members and travelers. There is also free parking all week!
For the rest of the week, general admission tickets are as follows:
Monday: Free
Tuesday: Free
Wednesday: $90
Thursday: $90
Friday: $143
Saturday: $143
Children under the age of 15 get in free.
What Time Does the Tournament Start?
Gates open at 7 AM every day, so get there early for a good seat! Keep in mind that hospitality venues don’t open until 9 AM, though.
Is February a Good Time to Golf in Arizona?
Yes! February is a fantastic time for golfing in Phoenix. It’s during peak season, so the weather is beautiful, and conditions are clear.
Interested in learning more about golf in Arizona?
Check Out Our Guide to the Ultimate Arizona Golf Vacation
Book Your Phoenix Vacation Directly with Arizona Elite Vacation Rentals!
After you get back from the tournament, you’ll want to crash in style at the top vacation rentals in Arizona—and that’s where we come in. Whether you want to stay in Phoenix or a bit closer to the tournament in Scottsdale itself, we have plenty of options to choose from. We’re confident you’ll find the right fit for you amongst our extensive catalog of Arizona vacation rentals! Plus, when you book directly, you’ll save time, money, and stress. What could be better than that?
Ready to book your trip? Fantastic! Browse our available Arizona vacation rentals today and book your trip directly with Arizona Elite vacation rentals.
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