Valspar Championship 2026
Where PGA Championship Golf
Meets Elevated Tampa Bay Living
Each spring, Tampa Bay transforms into a showcase of color, competition, and cultivated experiences. The Valspar Championship, known as “The Most Colorful PGA TOUR Tournament in the World” returns to the Copperhead Course, March 17–22, 2026.
Set against the lush, rolling fairways of Innisbrook Golf Resort, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, the tournament setting offers both an intimate and world-class experience. Towering pines frame immaculate greens. The air carries a quiet anticipation. And along the famed “Snake Pit” closing stretch, drama builds with every swing.
Widely regarded as the PGA TOUR’s most vibrant stop, this celebrated tournament blends elite sport with a distinctly elevated social atmosphere, making it as much a lifestyle event as it is a championship. METRO has been attending for many years, and is especially excited to cover this year. Here’s what’s in store.
A World-Class Field
The 2026 championship welcomes back defending titleholder Viktor Hovland, whose precision and composure secured a memorable 2025 victory. He returns to face an extraordinary field that includes major champions and global standouts such as Brooks Koepka, Patrick Cantlay, Xander Schauffele, Billy Horschel, and Tom Kim.
For spectators, this is more than tournament viewing — it is proximity to greatness. The Copperhead Course’s undulating terrain and strategic design reward patience and artistry, creating an experience that is as compelling to walk as it is to watch.
A Milestone Year
The 2026 tournament marks two significant milestones: 50 years of Copperhead Charities and 25 years of PGA TOUR golf in Tampa Bay. These anniversaries elevate the week into a celebration of legacy and local impact, with curated activations, commemorative moments, and philanthropic initiatives woven throughout the experience.
Indeed, the Valspar Championship has long stood as a meaningful economic and charitable driver for the region, pairing refined entertainment with tangible community benefit.
Hospitality, Reimagined
Named the PGA TOUR’s most “Fan-First Tournament,” the Valspar Championship continues to redefine the spectator experience with thoughtfully designed venues that merge comfort, cuisine and prime sight lines.
The debut of the Lexus Lounge on the 16th green introduces an exquisite new standard. Featuring 10 semi-private loge-style boxes accommodating 12 guests each, the space offers all-inclusive culinary service and elevated beverage selections all overlooking one of the most electrifying holes on the course.
Elsewhere, the Snake Pit Club presented by AmeriLife anchors the 17th green with a dynamic social scene, while the Hooters Owl’s Nest and DEX DECK deliver high-energy hospitality infused with Tampa Bay personality. For those seeking variety, the Ultimate Hopper Ticket (available Thursday and Sunday) grants curated access across multiple shared venues in a single day — an insider’s pass to the tournament’s most coveted vantage points.
The beloved Publix Chillounge returns with expanded lounge seating and signature offerings, including the fan-favorite Birdie Sub and Copperberry Cocktail. New in 2026, the Publix Lounge relocates to the 14th fairway, introducing fresh sampling experiences in an airy, relaxed setting.
A Celebration Beyond the Fairways
Saturday evening brings a seamless transition from sport to stage as Valspar LIVE presented by Chick-fil-A welcomes country headliners Tyler Hubbard and Lee Brice. The concert begins shortly after play concludes, and access is included with Saturday admission — a rare pairing of championship golf and premium live music under the Florida sky.
New this year, The Turn hosted by John Gruden offers an immersive social hub complete with curated merchandise, elevated concessions, multiple screens broadcasting college hoops, Tampa Bay Buccaneers activations and “Memorabilia for a Cause” featuring collectibles from his famed collection.
Honoring Heroes
In a gesture that reflects the tournament’s community ethos, healthcare workers and first responders will be recognized with complimentary Heroes Appreciation Tickets presented by Jabil for the first 500 heroes each day, along with access to the Jabil Heroes Appreciation Suite on the 5th green — an exclusive retreat offering curated food and beverage service.
Folds of Honor Friday, presented by USAA, returns March 20, beginning with a stirring National Anthem ceremony on the 1st tee honoring military service members and their families.
The Social Season’s Signature Event
From professional practice rounds beginning Tuesday to the final putt on Championship Sunday,, the Valspar Championship delivers a week defined by precision, polish and celebration.
It is where Tampa Bay’s business leaders, tastemakers and families gather. Where championship golf meets thoughtfully crafted hospitality. Where philanthropy and entertainment intersect seamlessly.
METRO Recap
The Valspar Championship is not merely attended, it is experienced. In 2026, amid milestone celebrations and an extraordinary field of play, it promises to be more colorful than ever.
March 16-22, 2026
For info on Tickets, Full Schedule of Events,
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