Good times on the green: Your guide to the Waste Management Phoenix Open

PHOENIX — The Valley of the Sun will be looking a little greener this weekend as it welcomes the annual Waste Management Phoenix Open.

The golf tournament that features some of the game’s top players has gained a reputation over the years as the most raucous event on the PGA Tour, and for good reason.

Fans are known to be rowdy, quite the opposite of the standard quiet affair of typical tournaments. The 16th hole has become a bucket list item for most fans — even though caddy racing is no longer allowed and players are banned from tossing souvenirs into the crowd.

The Open has become the best-attended event on the Tour. Last year, a record 618,365 people enjoyed the fun at the TPC Scottsdale.

Ticket information is available online. First responders and all active, retired and reserve military personnel can receive free entry along with one guest.

The tournament is nearly a week long. On Monday and Tuesday, the pros will play practice rounds to get ready for when each stroke counts. There are also some smaller events.

The fun really begins Wednesday with the Annexus Pro-Am, a one-day contest featuring pro golfers paired with celebrities. The actual tournament begins Thursday and will finish Sunday.

If you want to go to this year’s Waste Management Phoenix Open, here’s everything you need to know before you pack up for a day on the course.

So who’s playing?

The tournament officially begins Thursday. A lot of notable golfers will be out to make the cut. While we could just link to a full list of them, we thought we’d highlight some of the most notable players in the gallery below. Flip through to pick who you’re rooting for this weekend — it makes things more interesting — before moving down the story.

How do I get to this place?

(Twitter Photo/@DetourDanKTAR)

Now that you’ve picked your favorite to win, you should probably plan the drive up. TPC Scottsdale is located near Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard. The closest freeway is the Loop 101.

There are seven different parking lots for the tournament, but most require passes. There are two general parking lots: One is at WestWorld of Scottsdale, near Bell Road and the Loop 101. The other is near Scottsdale Road and the Loop 101. Signs will direct drivers where to go, so keep an eye out.

A free shuttle service is offered from both lots. From Thursday to Saturday, the shuttle will run from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. On Sunday, service will be cut down from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

When it comes time to leave, be aware of how much you’ve had to drink. Police will be watching out for drivers under the influence. In addition to a taxi cab stand, there is also a special Uber pickup area that features a lounge.

What can I bring?

(AP Photo)

Unlike your Super Bowl party on Sunday, it’s probably best to leave a lot of things at home.

The list of prohibited items is extensive, but no more serious than your average Arizona Cardinals game. The most important things to note are: no large bags (see link for a breakdown) or backpacks, no lawn chairs, no rods (aka selfie sticks) and no outside food or drink.

It’s also worth pointing out that, despite having the rowdiest fans on the Tour, officials do not allow whistles, horns or other noise-making devices or signs or banners.

Oh, cameras aren’t allowed either.

However, you can bring mobile devices (on silent only), collapsible chairs out of their bag and sealed water bottles, among other things.

Who’s hungry?

(AP and StockSnap photos)

Since you can’t bring your own food in, you may have to plan on eating at the tournament. There are plenty of concession stands throughout the course that sell both food and drinks, including alcohol to those 21 and over. But be responsible. More food options — specifically lunch and dinner — are available in the Fan Zone.

How is the weather going to be?

(Waste Management Phoenix Open Photo)

It should be a beautiful weekend for golf.

The National Weather Service forecast is calling for highs to be in the mid-70s all weekend long. Mornings will be a bit chilly, however, as overnight lows are expected to be about 50 degrees.

Unlike years past, there is no rain in the forecast, so slap on the sunscreen.

Where’s the party?

(Facebook Photo)

If you haven’t gotten your fill of the good times by the close of the day’s play, head over to the Coors Light Bird’s Nest. The venue, only for those 21 and over, will feature a few big names in entertainment — Toby Keith, Blink 182 and DJ Steve Aoki are some of this year’s acts — over the course of the tournament.

The Birds Nest opens about 3:30 p.m. each day, with headliners taking the stage about 8:30 p.m. The doors are normally closed for the night about 10:30 p.m.

General admission tickets start at $50 and VIP tickets start at $200. VIP passes include dinner, drinks and a special viewing area. They are available online.

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