Memorial Day Weekend | May 23–24, 2026
2026 City of Palm Desert Championship
One of the Coachella Valley’s most anticipated amateur golf tournaments returns for Memorial Day Weekend.
The City of Palm Desert Championship is a premier two-person team event featuring 36 holes of competitive play across the Firecliff and Mountain View courses.
Limited field • Open to residents and non-residents
Compete for the Title of Golf Champion of Palm Desert
The City of Palm Desert Championship brings together passionate golfers for a weekend of strategy, competition, and camaraderie. Teams compete in a Best Ball and Scramble format, enjoying championship course conditions, first-class service, and the unforgettable desert setting that defines Desert Willow Golf Resort.
Whether you’re a Palm Desert resident or traveling in for the event, this annual tradition offers the perfect balance of competitive play and resort-style experience.
Tournament Schedule
Saturday, May 23, 2026 – Mountain View
| 7:00 AM: | Check-in and Breakfast |
| 8:00 AM: | Shotgun Start |
| Format: | 2-Person Best Ball |
Sunday, May 24, 2026 – Firecliff
| 7:00 AM: | Check-in and Breakfast |
| 8:00 AM: | Shotgun Start |
| Format: | 2-Person Scramble |
| 1:00 PM | Awards Luncheon |
Two Distinct Courses. One Championship Experience.
The City of Palm Desert Championship challenges teams across two of Desert Willow’s most acclaimed layouts. Mountain View rewards precision and smart course management with its strategic bunkering and playability, while Firecliff delivers a true championship test of power, accuracy, and decision-making. Together, they create a balanced, competitive experience that brings out the best in every golfer.
Mountain View
Where Precision Meets Playability
Natural beauty meets competitive play on Mountain View, a 6,913-yard resort-style course featuring wider fairways, 98 strategically placed bunkers, undulating greens, and seven water features. While inviting in appearance, the layout demands thoughtful course management and consistent execution.
Firecliff
Where Champions Are Made
Firecliff delivers Palm Desert’s ultimate championship test. This par-72, 7,056-yard desert course challenges teams with expansive natural areas, over 100 bunkers, and strategic water hazards. Its risk-reward design rewards precision, power, and confident decision-making, making it the perfect stage for a championship finish.
Tournament Format & Flights
The field will be divided into two flights based on participation levels.
Gross + Net
Net players may choose any tee box.
Gross players must play from qualifying tees.
Net Only
Players may choose any tee box. Handicaps adjusted accordingly.
Subject to change.
Qualifying Tees for Gross Division
Eligibility to compete for Gross awards will require playing the following qualifying tee boxes.
| Men: | Purple |
| Ladies: | Tan |
| Ladies Senior (55+): | Green |
| Men’s Senior (55+): | White |
A current USGA/GHIN Handicap (as of May 15, 2026) is required for Net competition.
Entry Packages
Palm Desert Resident Team
- Two rounds of tournament golf
Complimentary practice round*
Tee gift for each player
Continental breakfast both days
Par 3 contests
Awards luncheon
Raffle prizes
Non-Resident Team
- Two rounds of tournament golf
Complimentary practice round*
Tee gift for each player
Continental breakfast both days
Par 3 contests
Awards luncheon
Raffle prizes
Practice rounds may be booked up to 60 days in advance for dates between April 10–May 24 after 11:00 AM.
A Desert Willow Tradition
The City of Palm Desert Championship has become a signature Memorial Day Weekend tradition, attracting competitive golfers from across the Coachella Valley and beyond. Exceptional course conditions, professional tournament operations, and a welcoming atmosphere make this one of Southern California’s premier amateur events.
Featured Prizes
BMW Performance Center Drive
Hotel Paseo Overnight Stay
Titleist Scotty Cameron Putter
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Foursome of Golf
Which Team Will Be Crowned Golf Champion of Palm Desert?
Gather your partner and secure your place in the field today.
