The “Greatest Show on Grass” makes its triumphant return to the Valley Feb. 22 – 28 at TPC Scottsdale with an all-new name, a later set of dates and a larger playing field. The newly dubbed Waste Management Phoenix Open expands to 144 players and includes Ohio-based band O.A.R as Birds Nest headliners. More competition and Billboard chartbusters—what else do you need?

The Field

Defending champion Kenny Perry and local fan favorite Phil Mickelson will hit the links at the 2010 tournament along with other top money leaders on the PGA TOUR. The field of 144 players will vie for a purse prize of $6 million. Other big hitters on the roster include Sean O’Hair, Robert Allenby, and 2009 U.S. Open winner Lucas Glover. And, with the tournament date a month later this year, officials are expecting one of the strongest fields in years. C’mon, would you want to miss this action?

The Festivities

Besides being the best-attended stop on the PGA TOUR with an estimated 500,000 spectators each year, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is the most entertaining. Let’s face it; the tournament didn’t get its nickname as “The Greatest Show on Grass” because of the jaw-dropping drives and enviable greens (though it’s got that, too). Utter the words “16th Hole” to any semi-in-the-know golf fan and they’ll tell you it’s a stadium-sized party on the grass that you just can’t miss.

You’ll see your fair share of golf all-stars for plenty of on-course entertainment but the real fun starts when the sun sets at the Coors Light Birds Nest. This year’s entertainment line-up includes Los Angeles songster Kelley James, 80’s metal rockers Steel Panther, Collective Soul and headlining act O.A.R. General admission tickets for various shows start at $25, and VIP passes are available for O.A.R at $175.

The Fashion

Besides being a hotspot for golf aficionados and party-goers, the WM Phoenix Open is like a fashion show on grass drawing the Valley’s best (and sometimes worst) dressed. Come scope out all of the fashion do’s and don’ts as you take in Arizona’s sought-after sunshine. Average temperatures in February range in the mid-70s so it’s the perfect opportunity to test drive your spring wardrobe! A word to the wise: save the four-inch stilettos for the dance floor and opt for the season’s stunning, and comfortable, flats or sandals.

To Learn More:
Waste Management Phoenix Open
602.870.0163, www.WasteManagementPhoenixOpen.com