Mini golf is a fun and easy-to-play game that brings people together into a community that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. This sport’s growing popularity is breathing new life into local areas and boosting community engagement.
In many areas, mini golf has become a highly competitive sport. Some mini golf
competitions raise money for local charities and some offer substantial cash prizes for
the winners. Most events welcome players of all skill levels.
By hosting mini golf tournaments and events, communities have come together and are being revitalized through laughter and friendly competition. Mini golf tournaments and events offer a players chance to develop their golf skills and enjoy the welcoming, fun-spirited culture of mini golfing.
The Global Resurgence of Mini Golf, A Game for All Ages
The history of mini golf traces its beginnings to Scotland. Originally people were blocked from playing the traditional game of golf because of sex, race, or class. That all changed in 1867 when the Ladies Putting Club in St. Andrews, Scotland designated a small, socially acceptable course for women as an alternative to traditional golf. This little course was known as the Himalayas because it was so bumpy. It quickly gained popularity and laid the foundation for mini golf.
The first course in the United States was built in 1917 by a British Shipping Magnate. He built a tiny 18-hole course on his private estate in North Carolina and named it the “Thistle Dhu” (This’ll Do). The game grew in popularity and by the 1920’s, people were building their own mini golf courses, with ever more creativity and fun, turning it into the awesome game we all know and love today.
Over the last several years, mini golf has become even more popular, thanks to a trend of creating themed mini golf attractions. These attractions offer a more exciting experience that almost everyone can enjoy. These themed courses are not just fun to play but offer exceptional photographic moments to share on Instagram and other social media. This immersive mini golf experience has brought people of all ages together for some truly adventurous and fun gameplay experiences.
Must-See Mini Golf Events:
- Jolly Roger Mini Masters – August 30, 2024
- Summer Adult League MVP Mini Golf Tour – 2025
- ProMiniGolf USPMGA Masters – October 8-12, 2024
- The O-Street Open – August 11th, 2024
- Matterhorn International Pro AM – September 21, 2024
- 5th Miniest Mini Golf Open – September 29, 2024
- PPA National Championship – September 16-20, 2024
- USPMGA US Open – 2025
- South Carolina Open – 2025
- Red Putter Pro Tournament – 2025
- The Putter's League Summer Classic – 2025
- Maine Open – 2025
All Southern Swing Tournaments
- GA State Open – 2025
- The PUTTERS Championship – 2025
- NC Pro-Am, Lakeview Putt & Play (Arden, NC) – September 7th, 2024
World Wide Tournaments
- WMF World Adventure Golf Tour - 2024
- WMF World Adventure Golf Tour Final 2024
- World Adventure Golf Masters 2024
- Youth World Championships 2024
- Minigolf World Championships for Seniors 2024
- Open European Championships General Class 2024
- Open Asian Championships 2024
- The World Crazy Golf Championships – 2025
How to Start Your Own Mini Golf Tournament
Hosting a mini golf tournament is a fantastic way to gather friends and build a community of players who share your passion. It’s also a great way for organizations and charities to raise money. To pull off a successful event, mix it up with different tournament styles - maybe a week-long competition or a fun, one-day bracket-style tournament.
Get the word out with social media and local ads to drum up excitement. Toss in some cool prizes, even simple ones, to add some more incentive. Consider choosing a local charity and donating a portion of the entry fees to help a worthy cause. And, if your venue doesn’t serve food, don't forget to team up with local vendors or food trucks to add to the festivities.
Go for a venue that checks all the right boxes for your group, from favorite themes to fun course challenges. Whether it's crazy golf or adventure golf, there's a whole world of mini golf courses out there just waiting to be discovered by your group. Think about what matters most to you – the level of challenge, how cool the place looks, or how easy it is to get there – and pick the perfect course for your awesome event.
Host your next mini golf tournament at one or more of our award-winning Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf locations in Southwest Florida and make it an event to remember! With five pirate-themed 18-hole golf courses, each featuring a unique pirate ship, waterfalls, and mysterious caves, your guests are in for a fun and competitive experience that's second to none. Visit our Outings Page today to start planning your unique pirate-themed golfing adventure.
