The CRMC Championship Returns to Brainerd: Free Admission, Adam Thielen, PGA TOUR Americas & a Week of Unforgettable Events
The Brainerd Lakes Area is preparing for one of the biggest sporting events of the summer as the 2026 CRMC Championship presented by Northern Pacific Center returns to Cragun’s Legacy Courses from August 24-30, 2026. As one of the premier stops on the PGA TOUR Americas schedule, the tournament will welcome 156 of the world’s rising professional golfers to compete for the coveted Paul Bunyan Ax Trophy while earning valuable Fortinet Cup points on their journey toward the PGA TOUR.
Complimentary Admission for Everyone
One of the best parts of the CRMC Championship is that general admission is completely complimentary all week long, thanks to Thrivent Financial.
That means families, golf fans, and first-time spectators can experience world-class professional golf without purchasing a ticket. Whether you spend an hour following your favorite players or make an entire day of it, the tournament offers an incredible opportunity to see the next generation of PGA TOUR stars compete right here in the Brainerd Lakes Area.
Adam Thielen Headlines Tournament Week
Adding even more excitement to this year’s championship is the appearance of Minnesota sports legend Adam Thielen, who will compete alongside the PGA TOUR Americas professionals.
Watching one of Minnesota’s most recognizable athletes trade football cleats for golf spikes under tournament conditions is expected to draw fans from across the region. Spectators are encouraged to celebrate his appearance during Wear Your Favorite NFL Jersey Day on Thursday, August 27, creating one of the most exciting fan atmospheres of the week.
More Than a Golf Tournament
The CRMC Championship has become much more than four rounds of championship golf. Tournament week features community events, charity fundraisers, family activities, live entertainment, and opportunities to interact with players throughout the week.
Monday, August 24
Tournament week begins with:
- Professional Practice Rounds
- Monday Qualifier at The Pines at Grand View Lodge
- FORE Charity Scramble on the Lehman 18
- Pro’s Only Guided Fishing on Gull Lake
Tuesday, August 25
The excitement continues with:
- Professional Practice Rounds
- Notch 8 Pro-Junior Event on the Nice 09
- Aces over Deuces Charity Event at The Gravel Pit
Wednesday, August 26
The Official Pro-Am, sponsored by CTC, gives amateur golfers the opportunity to play alongside PGA TOUR Americas professionals before tournament play officially begins. Daytime entertainment featuring DJ Ross B keeps the energy high throughout the day.
Thursday, August 27 | Round One
Championship play officially begins.
Highlights include:
- CRMC Championship Round 1
- Wear Your Favorite NFL Jersey Day in support of Adam Thielen
- Complimentary VIP admission for the first 100 first responders
Friday, August 28 | Round Two
Friday combines championship golf with community appreciation.
The day features:
- Round 2 competition
- RED Friday in support of deployed military members
- Complimentary VIP admission for the first 100 active military members and veterans
- Ladies Night featuring DJ YSwill, the Official DJ of the Minnesota Wild, immediately following tournament play on the deck overlooking the 18th hole.
Saturday, August 29 | Moving Day
Saturday often produces the biggest leaderboard movement of the tournament before transitioning into one of the area’s largest outdoor celebrations.
Following Round 3, fans can enjoy the Clow Stamping Saturday Night Jam featuring Jacuzzi Puma, bringing live music and entertainment to Cragun’s Legacy Courses. Concert tickets are available separately for those attending only the evening performance.
Sunday, August 30 | Championship Sunday
The tournament concludes with the final round as one player earns the 2026 CRMC Championship title and is presented with the iconic Paul Bunyan Ax Trophy.
Sunday also features Senior VIP Day, where guests ages 55 and older receive half-price VIP tickets, followed by the awards ceremony and charity check presentation.
Upgrade Your Experience with VIP
While tournament grounds admission is complimentary, fans looking for an elevated experience can purchase VIP tickets, which include access to three exclusive hospitality venues featuring premium course views, all-inclusive food and beverages, and comfortable viewing areas throughout the tournament.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re following the future stars of the PGA TOUR, cheering on Adam Thielen, enjoying live music after the final putt drops, or simply spending a summer afternoon with family, the 2026 CRMC Championship offers something for everyone.
For the complete schedule, VIP tickets, concert tickets, parking information, and spectator details, visit CRMCChampionship.com.