Image Credit: MS Designer
Picture a golf course, dotted with craft beer tents and laughter echoing between tee boxes. Local breweries show up alongside players, team banners waving as golfers sip new releases. Most of us know that tournaments are usually stuffy, uptight, or stiff, so to speak.
But this format breaks the ice—everyone cheers each other on. Curious about turning this idea into reality? The right planning brings your community together for good causes and memorable games. Stick around to see how simple details help you put together a beer-themed event everyone talks about until next year.
Finding the Right Course That Welcomes Beer Events
Not all golf courses will permit alcohol use, that’s for sure. Many clubs have tight restrictions tied to insurance or tradition. Ask about their event policy up front, before you even scout dates. Some managers may even request a copy of your state’s temporary liquor license or want proof that every brewery has liability coverage.
Look into smaller municipal courses, too. They often support creative fundraisers and are open to custom requests. Emphasizing your sentiments on drinking responsibly at beer events also helps when pitching your plan to course directors.
Choosing Breweries That Love Community Projects
It’s simple: beer makers who hold value in local causes become your strongest partners.
Skip those mass-market distributors and talk directly with owners or taproom managers. Instead, find brewers already active in charity nights, city clean-ups, or youth sports. They’ll most likely share the event on their socials and send enthusiastic teams to play.
Also, plan to offer each brewery a way to showcase their signature pour, maybe at a themed tee box. Most small breweries appreciate that spotlight and build real community loyalty.
Picking Games and Designing Golf Holes with Craft Beer Challenges in Mind
Nothing breaks down barriers faster than shared laughs and friendly wagers.
Group play works best here because it lets friends, colleagues, and new faces cheer each other on. Most craft beer fans already know how much more fun comes from hanging out together than comparing golf bags.
Certain game types bring out this vibe:
- Scramble: Teams hit their shots, pick the best one, and all shoot from there.
- Shamble: Mix individual drives with team play for every hole.
- Alternate Shot: Partners swap turns on every swing.
- Chapman: Both players tee off, then switch balls before picking one to finish the hole.
Most agree that these formats top the list for beer-themed events since they create room for cheers at every turn. Planning different types of golf games like these ensures everyone stays engaged without bogging down the pace.
Golf Hole Design Considerations
- Consider adding beer-tasting stations right by popular tee boxes or setting up a “closest to the keg” challenge at par threes.
- You could offer bonus raffle tickets for anyone who lands in a marked “beer zone” on the green.
- Perhaps include brewery-branded signs, tap handles, or festive décor around every hole.
Shorter walking routes between tasting spots make group pacing smoother and encourage more casual social stops along the way.
Coordinating Permits without Slowing Down Planning
Depending on where you intend to hold the event, you’ll likely need a nod from local authorities before serving alcohol. Start with your city clerk or county office for clear permit requirements.
Each brewery pouring on-site might need individual approvals.
You want to request paperwork early, so vendors have ample time to process details. Also, check insurance needs for both golf play and beer service, since most municipalities expect proof before signing off.
Recruiting Volunteers Who Show Up on Tournament Day
Who’ll be participating in the tournament of beer, competing on the course? The volunteers you recruit can make or break your event’s energy.
You could ask breweries to send their reps as hole hosts. Connect with local high school teams or clubs for setup and scorekeeping help.
Give volunteers simple incentives like:
- event shirts
- meal tickets
- even a brewery gift card
- … to encourage full turnout and keep spirits high from start to finish.
Managing Beverage Service to Keep It Safe and Fun
Players should enjoy the beer, not overdo it. Assign trained staff or volunteers at each station to watch serving sizes and monitor for anyone who needs a break.
Stock water everywhere, post reminders about hydration, and encourage slow sampling throughout the round.
Building Partnerships with Local Food Vendors for Better Pairings
Don’t forget that where there’s booze, there’d better be food. Bring in food trucks or local restaurants that pair menus with each brewery’s style.
Give guests choices, plan snacks at key holes, and support local chefs as much as possible.
Pulling off a beer-themed golf tournament for charity depends on thoughtful planning and genuine connections. Communities remember the experience, while your efforts spark fresh energy for local causes.
