U.S. Kids Golf World Championship Guide
Everything Families Need to Know
Every summer, Pinehurst welcomes thousands of the world's best young golfers for one of the largest junior sporting events anywhere. Over two weeks, more than 2,200 players from 55 countries and all 50 states compete on championship courses throughout the Sandhills.
Whether you're cheering on a competitor, planning to catch the Parade of Nations, or simply wondering why Pinehurst is buzzing with families from around the world, we've put together everything you need to know.
Whether you're a Moore County local or visiting for championship week, choose the guide that's right for you.
Our Local's Guide (directly below) features event schedules, insights on the Parade of Nations and what to expect throughout championship week.
If you’re new to the area and planning your stay, check out our Visitor’s Guide (towards the bottom of the page) to find kid-friendly restaurants, playgrounds, parks, ice cream stops, and our favorite ways to spend time between tee times.
Local's Guide
More Than Just a Golf Tournament
The U.S. Kids Golf World Championship is more than just a tournament—it's a celebration of youth golf and one of Pinehurst's biggest annual traditions. Throughout championship week, families can enjoy the colorful Parade of Nations, the Parent-Child Tournament, Trackman Demo Days, three rounds of championship play, the Closing Ceremony, and the Van Horn Cup featuring the world's top 12-year-old golfers. It's also a chance to watch tomorrow's stars today, with many current PGA and LPGA professionals having competed in these championships before reaching the highest levels of the game.
At a Glance
World Teen Championship (Ages 13–18): July 23–25, 2026
Teen Van Horn Cup: July 26
World Championship (Ages 5–12): July 30–August 1
Van Horn Cup: Following Championship Play
U.S. Kids Golf By the Numbers
2200+
junior golfers55
countries represented, 50 u.s. states represented160,000
holes played48,000
miles walked, roughly twice around the worldDon't Miss: Parade of Nations
One of Pinehurst's most colorful traditions returns will take place in the Village or Pinehurst on Tuesday, July 28th beginning at 6 PM.
The U.S. Kids Golf World Championship Parade of Nations officially kicks off two weeks of championship golf as more than 1,500 young golfers from over 50 countries and 47 states march through the Village of Pinehurst, proudly carrying the flags of their home countries and states.
The parade begins in front of The Carolina Hotel before winding through the village, making for a memorable afternoon of international pride, community, and celebration. More info and a map of the parade can be found here.
Image provided by Pinehurst Resort
Visitor's Guide
Whether you're in town for one day or the entire championship, Moore County has plenty to keep families busy between tee times and after the final putt. Below are a few of our favorite family-friendly guides to help you make the most of your visit.
MoCo Mom’s Kid-Friendly Local Recs:
🌲 Top 10 Things to Do in Pinehurst
🌿 Top 10 Things to Do in Southern Pines
📅 This Week's Family Event Calendar
🚗 Top Day Trips (1–2 Hours from Moore County)
US Open Quick Links:
Click on a photo to learn more about the area:
Photos taken by Clara Henk Photo & Camryn Hollar