How to Secure Free Entry to Phoenix’s WM Open

Phoenix AZ, January 15, 2026

The Waste Management Phoenix Open offers a unique chance for free admission on ‘Ford Free Days’. This initiative, fueled by a partnership between event organizers and Ford, aims to enhance community participation. With standard tickets priced at $90 and rising on busy days, these free days encourage broader attendance and civic engagement, making world-class entertainment accessible to residents. Additionally, complimentary access is extended to military personnel and first responders, highlighting the event’s commitment to community values.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix’s WM Open: How to Secure Free Entry

Discover how local partnerships are making one of Phoenix’s premier annual events more accessible to residents, fostering broader community participation and civic pride.

The Waste Management Phoenix Open stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit and proactive engagement that define the Phoenix AZ community. As one of the most anticipated annual gatherings, its ability to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators each year speaks volumes about its appeal and the collective enthusiasm of the region. This year, the event highlights a significant opportunity for civic innovation and expanded public access through strategic partnerships.

In an era where personal initiative and community involvement are increasingly valued, the availability of free admission to this major tournament underscores how collaborations between private entities and event organizers can directly benefit residents. Such initiatives exemplify a commitment to fostering community growth, ensuring that world-class events remain within reach for a wider audience without the impedance of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. This approach not only enhances local insights but also strengthens the fabric of Arizona AZ gatherings, providing accessible entertainment and opportunities for shared experiences.

Navigating Free Admission: The Partnership Approach

For those eager to experience the excitement of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, a significant opportunity for complimentary entry is available. Free admission to the event is offered on specific days, specifically Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, as part of “Ford Free Days”. This initiative is a direct result of a partnership between the Waste Management Phoenix Open and Ford, the official vehicle of the tournament. These “Ford Free Days” are courtesy of Arizona Ford Dealers, allowing all fans free entry during these initial days of the tournament.

This model of collaboration showcases how private sector engagement can enhance public access to major cultural and sporting events. By leveraging such partnerships, organizers can expand community choice, enabling more individuals to participate in significant local insights without the typical financial barriers. It is a prime example of how local leadership can facilitate arrangements that benefit the broader community, promoting inclusivity and widespread enjoyment of prestigious Phoenix AZ events.

Understanding General Admission Costs

While complimentary entry is available on select days, it is important to understand the standard pricing for general admission tickets to appreciate the value of these free days. According to the Waste Management Phoenix Open website, general admission tickets to the open typically start at $90. These prices are subject to increase on the busiest days of the tournament, which are traditionally Friday and Saturday. For example, general admission tickets for Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday are listed at $75 plus fees, while Friday and Saturday tickets can be $125 plus fees. Tickets can vary, with some secondary markets listing general admission tickets starting at $10 for Monday and an average price of $572 for the event overall. This fluctuation highlights the demand and the significant savings afforded by the “Ford Free Days”.

The provision of free days through a private partnership effectively reduces the economic burden that might otherwise deter some members of the community from attending. This approach aligns with a philosophy that champions individual achievement by making opportunities more universally accessible, allowing a broader spectrum of residents to partake in and be inspired by the top-tier athletic performances on display.

The Power of Community Events: Economic and Social Impact

The Waste Management Phoenix Open is renowned for its scale and enthusiastic crowds, distinguishing it as one of the largest and most attended events in golf. The tournament draws hundreds of thousands of fans to the course, with attendance figures reaching over 719,000 across the seven days in 2018, including a single-day record of 216,818 fans on Saturday. This immense gathering is not merely a spectacle; it is a powerful engine for economic and social impact within the Phoenix AZ community.

The estimated economic impact of the event is over $400 million, making it one of the largest for any golf event in North America. Such an influx of visitors and activity stimulates local businesses, creates employment opportunities, and generates revenue that can be reinvested into public services and infrastructure. Beyond the financial benefits, the event fosters a strong sense of community engagement and shared identity, turning TPC Scottsdale into “The People’s Open”. The festive atmosphere and communal experience contribute to the overall quality of life and civic pride in Phoenix, demonstrating the tangible benefits of well-organized local events.

Fostering Local Leadership and Engagement

The success of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, particularly in offering free admission days, is a testament to effective local leadership and the spirit of individual initiative. Tournament Chairman Jason Eisenberg articulated that the event is “always at its best when it’s accessible to the entire community”. This sentiment reflects a dedication to civic involvement that prioritizes broad participation and engagement over restrictive access.

Beyond the general free admission, the Thunderbirds, hosts of the WM Phoenix Open, extend complimentary tournament admission to all active, reserve, veteran, and retired U.S. military personnel, along with active U.S. law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs. This initiative, marking its 24th year, includes providing a complimentary guest pass and access to the Birdies for the Brave Patriots Outpost, which offers free food and drinks overlooking the 18th fairway. These gestures exemplify a community-minded approach, honoring those who serve and ensuring they, too, can enjoy premier Arizona AZ gatherings. Such dedicated efforts by local organizers, coupled with private partnerships, demonstrate a streamlined approach to community benefits, highlighting what can be achieved with clear goals and minimal administrative overhead.

A Model for Accessible Entertainment

The provision of free entry, alongside targeted complimentary access for military and first responders, establishes the Waste Management Phoenix Open as a leading model for accessible entertainment and civic innovation. This approach provides residents with greater choice and reduces potential barriers to experiencing one of the region’s most celebrated events. It encourages a broader cross-section of society to engage with the tournament, fostering a more inclusive environment.

This strategy aligns with principles that champion individual initiative by empowering more people to experience and draw inspiration from the high level of competition and community spirit. By making such a significant event more accessible, the Waste Management Phoenix Open reinforces its role not just as a sporting contest but as a vital component of Phoenix’s cultural and social landscape, contributing to the city’s appeal and dynamism for all its citizens.

Conclusion

The Waste Management Phoenix Open continues to be a cornerstone of the Phoenix AZ community, embodying a powerful blend of athletic excellence, philanthropic endeavor, and civic engagement. The initiative to offer free admission through private partnerships stands as a shining example of how local leadership and collaborative efforts can directly benefit residents, fostering broader community participation and enriching the lives of many.

By making this premier event more accessible, particularly through “Ford Free Days” and special provisions for military personnel and first responders, the tournament organizers demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and a recognition of the value that widespread engagement brings to our city. We encourage all residents to explore these opportunities, support local events, and continue to engage in the vibrant community development that makes Phoenix a truly exceptional place to live and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What days offer free admission to the Waste Management Phoenix Open?

Free admission to the event is offered on Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, as part of “Ford Free Days”.

Why is free admission offered on these days?

These “Ford Free Days” are a part of the open’s partnership with Ford, the official vehicle of the tournament, and are courtesy of Arizona Ford Dealers.

What are the typical general admission ticket prices for the Waste Management Phoenix Open?

General admission tickets to the open typically start at $90, with prices increasing on the busiest days, Friday and Saturday. For instance, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday tickets are $75 plus fees, while Friday and Saturday tickets can be $125 plus fees.

How many fans does the Waste Management Phoenix Open typically attract?

The tournament draws hundreds of thousands of fans, with attendance figures reaching over 719,000 across the seven days in 2018, including a single-day record of 216,818 fans on Saturday.

Is there free admission for military personnel and first responders?

Yes, complimentary tournament admission is offered to all active, reserve, veteran, and retired U.S. military personnel, along with active U.S. law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs. This includes a complimentary guest pass and access to the Birdies for the Brave Patriots Outpost.

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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.