The Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard will introduce several initiatives to make the 2026 event more accessible for families and children. These changes include free admission for kids under 16 and dedicated spaces for young attendees at Bay Hill Club & Lodge. The tournament, set for March 5-8, aims to engage juniors through clinics, autograph zones, and family support areas.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational, the eighth event on the PGA Tour schedule, is enhancing its appeal to younger audiences in 2026 at Bay Hill Club & Lodge. Organizers are offering free admission to all children 15 and younger when accompanied by a ticketed adult, covering the entire week, including the competition days of March 5-8.
A highlight is the Arnold Palmer Invitational Junior Clinic presented by VyStar Credit Union, scheduled for Monday, March 2. This public event requires registration through First Tee Central Florida and expects 100 to 150 participants. Over one hour, PGA Tour professionals will discuss golf, provide instructional training, and lead fun challenges where juniors can practice shots with various clubs.
Young fans will have exclusive perks, such as family-only viewing areas near the sixth and 10th greens for unobstructed tournament views. The Autograph Zone presented by Chick-fil-A features a "Little Nuggets Autograph Area" adjacent to the practice putting green, clubhouse, and first tee, allowing close encounters with pros.
For families with infants, the Orlando Health Family Care Suites near the 10th green and in Arnie's Army Fan Village offer air-conditioned comfort. These spaces include free diapers, changing tables, private nursing areas, phone charging stations, and seating, opening at 10 a.m. daily through the end of play.
The Bay Hill Explorers program returns, inviting kids on a scavenger hunt to collect stickers at 10 course locations using special booklets. Additionally, youth-specific merchandise from the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard will be available at Fanatics tents near the 18th hole entrance and first tee clubhouse.
