Hosting a Golf Tournament? Here's What Really Matters (And What's Worth Splurging On)

Organizing a golf tournament is no easy task. Whether you're hosting a charity function, a company event, or simply attempting to have a fun-filled day on the links, you have a multitude of details to sort through. From player sign-ups to sponsorships, food/drinks, contests, and beyond—it can get out of hand in a hurry.

The key to a standout tournament isn’t spending big everywhere—it’s spending smart in the right places. Let’s walk through how to host a golf tournament people actually want to attend—and come back to next year. We’ll also cover the short list of investments that truly elevate your event.

1. Start With a Clear Format and Venue

First, decide on the format: Scrambles work well for mixed-skill groups and fund-raisers, but best-ball or stroke play would be more appealing to serious competitors. Choose a date well ahead of time (3–6 months is optimal), and avoid holiday weekends and conflicting events in your area.

In course choice, select one suitable for your visitors and that aligns with what you are able to charge per golfer in your area. There may be the preference for elitist club ambience; there might be a need for laid-back public course scenario. Go for an advance move to the course manager—numerous clubs host package events making planning far easier.

2. Plan Out the Experience from Check-in through to Awards

Conceptualize your tournament as an experience that will take place throughout a day, as opposed to playing a game of golf. Schedule check-in logistics, tee times (the best way to conduct a large group is a shotgun start), signs on course, contests, chow, and a finale. Make sure that volunteers or staff have defined jobs and know what the order of the day will be.

Keep it rolling, fun, and sociable. Golfers will be more likely to recall how they felt at your event than how they played the 16th hole.

3. Sponsorships = A Win for Everyone

If your event has a business or fundraising bent, soliciting sponsors is a no-brainer. Offer tiered packages (bronze, silver, gold) with differing perks: tee box logo signage, award recognition, player swag bag advertising space, or sponsor-branded contests (e.g. "ABC Company Closest to the Pin").

Make it easy to say yes by detailing exactly what they get—and afterwards, send them photos or social tags to show their brand in action.

4. The Short List: What's Really Worth Paying For

With so many options, you can easily blow your budget on frills that won't make a difference. Here's what you should spend to elevate your event and drive the most turnout:

✅ Hole-in-One Insurance

Players love the chance to win something meaningful—a car, a trip—off a hole-in-one. It's inexpensive, creates instant buzz, and makes your event look like big-time.

✅ Custom Swag or Signage

Skip the trash giveaways. Instead, spend money on quality branded hats, towels, or ball markers—things players will use again. Clean, well-placed signage also makes the tournament look professional and sponsor-friendly.

✅ On-Course Food and Drinks

Maintaining players hydrated and fed is crucial. Consider food stations or snack carts with snacks and drinks spread throughout the course. A fine post-round meal and awards ceremony rounds out the experience.

✅ Trophies & Contest Prizes

Compliments are a strong incentive. Reward winning teams, longest drive, closest to the pin—even "best dressed" or "worst score." It adds energy and gives something to look forward to.

✅ Professional Photo & Video Coverage

This may be the most underutilized yet valuable investment. Quality media gives you long-lasting content for promotion next year, sponsor summaries, and social media buzz.

5. Add Fun, Lighthearted Elements

Golf is a game, so don't hesitate to include some fun. On-course competitions (like a marshmallow long drive or use-a-hockey-stick challenge), raffles, live music, or even a photo booth at registration can set your event apart and become memorable.

These personal touches give your tournament that extra oomph and create memories for visitors to share with others later on.

6. Follow Up—and Set Up for the Next One

Send out a thank-you email to everyone who participated and sponsored the tournament once it's over. Add:

A quick recap and highlight reel

Links to photos and videos

A feedback survey

A save-the-date for next year (yep, already!)

This little gesture builds loyalty and keeps the event on their minds.

Get It All Covered With Professional Golf Media

All the planning, giggles, and postcard-perfect swings are worth a few snaps on the phone. That's where We Snap Golf comes in.

We don't just cover your golf tournament. We record the real spirit of your event—from Hollywood-grade drone flybys and team photos to action shots and post-round vignettes. Our content turns a one-day event into a year-round marketing asset. You'll have the tools to:

Market next year's tournament

Wow sponsors

Hype players

Grow your brand

Don't let your tournament end when the last putt drops. Let us help you make it a story to tell.