KNOXVILLE - Visit Knoxville has made a major change to the Visit Knoxville Open. The event will take place on May 18–24, at Holston Hills Country Club. Tickets to this event are FREE to the community.

In 2026, the Tennessee Golf Foundation will take over the Visit Knoxville Open, partnering with Visit Knoxville, Holston Hills, and local pros Scott Stallings and Peter Malnati to keep it a Knoxville staple.

“We are excited to work with the Tennessee Golf Foundation and Holston Hills to continue the excellence expected of the Visit Knoxville Open,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “By offering free tickets for this event, we invite the community to join us for an incredible weekend that tells the story of why people should visit Knoxville through our stop on the Korn Ferry Tour.”

“The Tennessee Golf Foundation is honored to take on the stewardship of the Visit Knoxville Open, and this opportunity aligns perfectly with our mission to grow the game of golf and make it accessible to communities across Tennessee,” said Whit Turnbow, President of the Tennessee Golf Foundation. “The life-changing impact of Tennessee Golf Foundation programming is at the heart of everything we do, helping young people build character, confidence, and opportunity through the game. Being a part of a Korn Ferry Tour event also highlights another transformational journey-winning at this level can be life-changing for players, opening the door to the PGA Tour and shaping the future of their careers.

We are excited to partner with Visit Knoxville, Holston Hills Country Club, and the incredible Knoxville community to deliver a first-class experience. Fans can expect a great week of golf, outstanding hospitality, and an event that truly reflects the passion and pride of East Tennessee; while showcasing the powerful, life-changing impact the game of golf can have on and off the course.”

The PGA TOUR’s mission is to deliver the world’s most compelling professional golf competition, featuring the sport’s greatest players, for fans, partners and communities. Owned and operated by the PGA TOUR, the Korn Ferry Tour identifies and develops players ready to compete and win on golf’s biggest stage.

The Visit Knoxville Open is one of the longest-standing tournaments on the Korn Ferry Tour, carrying a proud history that stretches back to the earliest days of the Tour. Over the years, it has showcased future stars of the PGA TOUR, provided a stage for breakthrough victories, and created a tradition that few other events can match. Its legacy in professional golf not only reflects the strength of the Tour but also highlights Knoxville’s role as a cornerstone community in the development of the game.

The course remains at Holston Hills Country Club, home to one of the nation’s most authentic and well-preserved Donald Ross golf courses. Built in 1927, the course was quickly recognized as the finest in Tennessee, hosting every major regional tournament — including a PGA Tour event during Byron Nelson’s historic 1945 season. Today, Holston Hills remains a standout among private golf clubs and consistently earns top rankings from Golfweek, GOLF.com, and other respected publications.


2026 SCHEDULE

Saturday, May 16, 10AM – Visit Knoxville Open Junior Golf Day at Fairways and Greens; free to the public, but limited availability, register here.

Tuesday, May 19, 7PM – Tennessee Golf Foundation Night held in conjunction with the Knoxville Smokies at Covenant Health Park; purchase tickets here.

Thursday, May 21 – Sunday, May 24 – Visit Knoxville Open Tournament Rounds at Holston Hills Country Club, free to the public; claim free tickets here. (First tee times will be released by the Korn Ferry Tour on Monday, May 18.)


2026 NEW ACTIVATIONS

While general admission tickets are free, the ’82 Club (a nod to the 1982 World’s Fair held in Knoxville) is an upscale hospitality option just off the 18th green and ticketholders receive all-inclusive food and drinks. Purchase ’82 Club access here.

"The Junction" is a new fan area that will be located around holes 11 and 17. Local food vendors will be available, alongside beverages, merchandise, and fan engagement activities.

The Visit Knoxville Open is still accepting volunteers; knowledge of golf isn’t necessary. Volunteer here.

The Visit Knoxville Open does more than showcase rising stars of professional golf—it also makes a lasting impact in the community. Each year, the tournament directs proceeds to local charities, helping fund programs that support youth development, education, wellness, and other vital community initiatives. Beyond financial contributions, the event also raises awareness, engages volunteers, and provides a platform for organizations to share their mission with fans and sponsors, ensuring that the excitement of professional golf leaves a meaningful legacy in East Tennessee.

Learn more about the Visit Knoxville Open here.