Ready, golf fans. The championship-level activity is being taken to the beautiful beaches of Nuevo Nayarit in Mexico with the VidantaWorld Mexico Open. It is not just any other tour in the PGA Tour. It is an all-inclusive adventure that is comprised of the best golf in the world, the best fun in luxury resorts, the festivities of the Day of the Dead, and the mouth-opening entertainment. Between 29 October and 1 November 2026, the best golfers will compete on a Greg Norman-designed course with spectators having access to all events, such as Cirque du Soleil performances and rides on the gondola, and flying on top of the Sierra Madre mountains. Be it a golf fanatic or even a visitor seeking to have an experience worth sharing, this tournament has got its share of specials to offer. Before the big event starts, let's explore all you need to know.
Quick Facts Table: VidantaWorld Mexico Open at a Glance
Before we get into the details, here's a snapshot of the tournament's most important numbers. This table gives you a fast reference point for dates, purse size, and course specs.
Why the Tournament Moved to Fall 2026
This has been in the spring schedule over the years. But in the 2026 season, matters are to be different, and there is a good reason why.
The organizers wanted the tournament to coincide with the popular Mexican observance of day of the dead, so they moved it to late in the fall. As a result, audience members are now able to delight in both action on the golf course and colorful cultural celebrations. More so, the new dates are considered in context of the grand openings of the VidantaWorld theme parks, which offers even more reasons to visit.
A Course Built for Champions
The VidantaWorld Vallarta Course is located in an incredible location in between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This design was created by Greg Norman and golfers always compliment the beauty and difficulty of this design.
The 7,287 yard long par 73 course exhibits accuracy at each turn. Also, the 2026 version presents a new routing setup, revised. This was updated with particular regards to the increase in sightlines to broadcast spectators and an overall increase in the spectators experience in the on-site fans.
Course Specifications Table
Here's a closer breakdown of what makes this layout so demanding for professional golfers.
Meet the Defending Champion
The 2025 edition was won by Brian Campbell who shot a tremendous 20-under-par. His victory contributed to an ever-growing list of successful golfers, who have conquered this challenging course.
All eyes will hence be on Campbell as he goes to defend his title in 2026. Will he do the same or will somebody up-and-coming come to the scene? Golf fans won't want to miss finding out.
Past Champions Who Ruled This Course
History matters in golf, and this tournament has already produced some memorable performances. Here's a quick look at recent winners and their scores.
It is worth mentioning that the performance of Tony Finau in 2023 remains the record in the tournament. In the meantime, Jon Rahm became a winner in 2022, the first year when this event had official PGA Tour status.
What Makes This Event Different From Other PGA Stops
Though most tour events are a simple championship golf event, this one offers a complete resort experience. Consequently, visitors receive so much more than a day of observing golf shots.
The 2000 acre multimillion dollar entertainment estate boasts Cirque du Soleil LUDÓ show, the SkyDream Parks Gondola and various fine dining restaurants. Therefore, golf is not the only sport you should be interested in, but you will have lots to be entertained during your stay.
Resort Amenities Table
Take a look at what's waiting for you beyond the fairways.
Field Size and Prize Money Breakdown
The tournament includes 132 players and has a huge payout of $6,000,000. It is a huge payday to professional golfers pursuing FedExCup points in the fall part of the tour.
In particular, the winner takes home $1,080,000, and all competition competitors gain valuable points toward their seasonal ranking on the FedExCup Fall. Therefore, there is a lot of competition throughout the tee shot and the last putt.
Daily Schedule and What to Expect Each Day
Curios about how every tournament day works out? The activities will usually consist of the time between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM and provide the fans with sufficient time to watch it all.
More so, it has practice rounds, pro-am rounds and the championship rounds within four days. Therefore, visitors will be able to base their trip on a particular round or spend the whole week to be able to spend all the opportunities.
Daily Schedule Table
Ticketing and Visitor Information
Planning to attend? General admission and weekly series tickets are already sold via such authorities as Fever. Access to grounds and hospitality 17-hole package provide the fans with options depending on their requirements and money.
Nevertheless, there are several rules to consider before you do so. The extremely strict policy regarding the use of small bags is implemented in the venue, so everyone is allowed to carry only a small bag or a fanny pack. Also, external food and liquor cannot be brought in the premises, so bring some with you.
Ticketing Options Table
Beyond Golf: Resort Amenities Worth Exploring
This event happens at a destination resort, not just a golf course. Therefore, visitors can extend their trip and enjoy far more than tournament action alone.
The property features world-class dining, family-friendly activities, and unique attractions like pontoon boats that transport players across the Ameca River to the driving range. It's a small but memorable detail that sets this venue apart from typical tour stops.
Tournament History and Its Roots
This event isn't new to Mexican golf. In fact, it traces back to 1944, when it was first played at Club de Golf Chapultepec, making it one of the longest-running tournaments in the region.
Since then, the event has evolved considerably. It officially joined the PGA Tour in 2022, elevating its status and drawing bigger names to compete each year.
Tournament Milestones Table
How to Plan Your Trip Around the Tournament
When thinking of visiting, time is of the essence. Since the event falls this year during the Day of the Dead season, the event will be coupled with Mexican culture and championship golf.
Additionally, it is a good idea to book rooms early as the resort is likely to be busy at this time. Your visits to the theme park openings in addition to your tournament visit would make it a memorable multi-day vacation.
Conclusion
The VidantaWorld Mexico Open has evolved with simple origins to be among the most thrilling events to be held in the PGA Tour. This tournament has got all the ingredients making it to be appealing to everyone through its stunning Greg Norman designed course, huge prize purse and its outstanding resort services. The VidantaWorld Mexico Open can provide an experience of a lifetime whether you are a FedExCup point seeking player or just a hopeful to have fun and enjoy golf, culture, and luxury under a single trip. Note down October 29-November 1, 2026 in your diary, and begin planning your trip to Nuevo Nayarit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the VidantaWorld Mexico Open in 2026?
The tournament runs from October 29 to November 1, 2026.
2. Where is the tournament held?
It takes place at the VidantaWorld Vallarta Course in Nuevo Nayarit, Mexico.
3. Who designed the golf course?
Greg Norman designed the 7,287-yard, par-73 layout.
4. Who is the defending champion?
Brian Campbell won in 2025 with a score of -20.
5. What is the total prize purse?
The purse totals $6,000,000 USD.
6. How many players compete?
The field includes 132 players.
7. Why did the tournament move to fall?
Organizers shifted dates to align with Day of the Dead celebrations and new theme park openings.
8. What is the venue's bag policy?
Only small handbags and fanny packs are allowed.
9. Can I bring outside food?
No, outside food and beverages are prohibited.
10. Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available through authorized platforms like Fever and the official tournament website.
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