PGA Show 2026: Complete Guide for Golf Industry Professionals

The PGA Merchandise Show is the golf industry's largest annual gathering, bringing together 40,000+ golf professionals, retailers, manufacturers, and enthusiasts. Whether you're a PGA professional, golf retailer, course operator, or industry supplier, this comprehensive guide will help you maximize your PGA Show 2026 experience in Orlando.

PGA Show 2026 Overview

Event Details

Dates: January 21-24, 2026 (Tuesday-Friday) Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida Attendance: 40,000+ golf professionals Exhibitors: 1,000+ companies Exhibit Space: 1 million+ square feet Demo Days: January 19-20, 2026 (Monday-Tuesday)

Why Attend?

The Numbers:

• $400+ billion global golf industry
• Latest equipment innovations
• 1,000+ exhibiting brands
• 100+ educational sessions
• Outdoor demo experience
• 40 acres of outdoor demos
• Unparalleled networking

What's New for 2026:

• Expanded technology pavilion
• Enhanced sustainability showcase
• Virtual reality fitting experiences
• AI-powered swing analysis demos
• Direct-to-consumer trend focus
• Next-gen simulators

Registration & Credentials

Who Can Attend?

Qualified Attendees:

• PGA Professionals
• Golf retailers & pro shop operators
• Course owners & operators
• Golf range operators
• Golf architects & designers
• Media & industry press
• Buyers & distributors
• Golf facility managers

Verification Required:

• PGA membership OR
• Golf industry business credentials
• Buyer intent verification
• Professional email address
• Business license/documentation

Badge Types & Pricing

PGA Professional Badge: FREE

• Must be PGA member in good standing
• Full show access
• All education sessions
• Demo Day access
• Networking events

Retail Buyer Badge: FREE

• Pro shop operators
• Golf retailers
• Course managers with buying authority
• Full show floor access
• Buyer-specific events

Trade Badge: $150-$300

• Industry professionals
• Suppliers & distributors
• Service providers
• Golf architects
• Media professionals (may be FREE with credentials)

Demo Days Only: $50

• January 19-20
• Outdoor demo area
• Try latest equipment
• No show floor access

All-Access Pass: $395

• Full show access (Jan 21-24)
• Demo Days (Jan 19-20)
• All education sessions
• VIP experiences
• Networking events

Registration Timeline

October 2025: Early bird registration opens November-December: Standard registration January 2026: Onsite registration (higher prices)

Pro Tip: Register by December 1 for best rates and housing options.

Demo Days (January 19-20)

Outdoor Experience

Location: Orange County National Golf Center Distance from Convention Center: 20 minutes What: Hands-on demos of latest equipment Who: Manufacturers showcase new products

What to Expect

Equipment Available:

• 2026 driver models
• New iron sets
• Latest putters
• Wedge innovations
• Golf balls (take them!)
• Training aids
• Launch monitors
• Simulator technology

Demo Day Structure:

• Driving Range: Try drivers, irons, hybrids
• Short Game Area: Wedges, chipping, pitching
• Putting Greens: Newest putters
• Ball Testing: Compare golf balls
• Tech Bay: Launch monitors, fitting systems
• Simulator Village: Indoor hitting experiences

Demo Days Tips

What to Bring:

• Glove (crucial!)
• Comfortable golf shoes
• Your own putter for comparison
• Driver for comparison
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Water bottle
• Business cards
• Note-taking tools

Strategy:

• Arrive early (7:00 AM)
• Hit big-name brands first (lines form quickly)
• Bring swing info (speed, ball flight)
• Try equipment you'd never normally test
• Ask technical questions
• Get fitted properly
• Take notes on what you like
• Collect balls (free souvenirs!)

Weather Prep:

• January in Orlando: 50-70°F
• Can be cool early morning
• Layer clothing
• Bring rain jacket
• Check forecast

Transportation:

• Shuttle from Convention Center (FREE)
• Runs 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Very crowded
• Alternative: Rental car or rideshare

Show Floor Overview

Hall Layout

North/South Hall Complex (Orange County Convention Center)

• Section A: Major club manufacturers
• Section B: Soft goods & apparel
• Section C: Course maintenance & operations
• Section D: Technology & innovation
• Section E: Accessories & lifestyle

Must-Visit Areas

1. Major Equipment Manufacturers

• Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist
• Product launches
• Longest lines
• Best demos
• Priority visits

2. Technology & Innovation Pavilion

• Golf simulators
• Launch monitors
• Swing analysis AI
• Course management software
• Booking systems
• Virtual reality experiences

3. Apparel & Soft Goods

• Latest fashion trends
• Performance fabrics
• Direct sourcing opportunities
• Private label options
• Fashion shows daily

4. New Product Zone

• 2026 product launches
• Innovation awards
• Startup companies
• Emerging brands
• Hidden gems

5. Turfgrass & Course Management

• Maintenance equipment
• Agronomy solutions
• Irrigation systems
• Sustainability products
• Course operations

6. Accessories & Lifestyle

• Golf travel gear
• Training aids
• Retail displays
• POS systems
• Pro shop solutions

Education Sessions

Session Types

PGA Education Conference (Concurrent)

• 100+ sessions
• CEU credits for PGA professionals
• Business management
• Teaching techniques
• Technology integration
• Customer experience

Key Topics 2026:

• Direct-to-consumer strategies
• Fitting technology
• Retention programs
• Digital marketing
• Revenue optimization
• Sustainability initiatives
• Youth programs

Popular Sessions

Business Track:

• "Maximizing Pro Shop Revenue"
• "Dynamic Pricing Strategies"
• "Building Membership Programs"
• "E-commerce for Golf Shops"

Teaching Track:

• "Technology in Instruction"
• "Junior Golf Programs"
• "Group Lesson Strategies"
• "Online Coaching Platforms"

Operations Track:

• "Facility Management Best Practices"
• "Staff Training & Retention"
• "Safety & Risk Management"

Session Tips:

• Sessions fill up quickly
• Register when booking show
• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Bring notebook
• Network during breaks

Networking Opportunities

Official Events

Opening Night Party (Tuesday)

• Welcome reception
• Networking mixer
• Open bar
• Appetizers
• 5,000+ attendees
• Best first-night event

Awards Gala (Wednesday)

• Industry recognition
• Formal dress
• Seated dinner
• Ticket required ($125)
• Premier networking

PGA Education Night (Wednesday)

• PGA professional focus
• Casual networking
• Drinks & appetizers
• Exhibit hall

Buyer's Club Events

• Invitation only
• Retailer focus
• Vendor meetings
• Deal-making

Spontaneous Networking

Best Opportunities:

Booth Conversations:

• Engage with exhibitors
• Ask detailed questions
• Exchange cards
• Schedule follow-ups

Coffee Stations:

• Natural gathering points
• Morning networking
• Quick conversations
• Throughout exhibit halls

Lunch Areas:

• Onsite dining
• Casual atmosphere
• Join other attendees
• Don't eat alone

Shuttle Buses:

• To/from Demo Days
• To/from hotels
• Captive conversations
• Golf talk

Hotel Bars:

• Evening networking hub
• Spontaneous meetings
• Industry gossip
• Deal discussions

Booth Strategy

Meeting with Exhibitors:

Pre-Schedule (Recommended):

• Contact brands in November
• Request specific meeting times
• Discuss needs in advance
• Get booth number
• Add to calendar

Walk-Up Strategy:

• Visit during slow times
• Early morning (9:00-10:00 AM)
• Late afternoon (4:00-5:00 PM)
• Avoid lunch rush

Questions to Ask:

• What's new for 2026?
• Dealer/pro pricing
• Minimum orders
• Shipping & terms
• Marketing support
• Training availability
• Exclusivity options

Taking Notes:

• Booth number
• Contact info
• Product interest
• Pricing
• Follow-up needed
• Next steps

Accommodation Strategy

Where to Stay

Tier 1: Convention Center Hotels

Hyatt Regency Orlando

• Connected to convention center
• Walk to show floor (5 minutes)
• $200-$350/night during show
• Most convenient option
• Books fast

Rosen Centre

• Across the street
• Very close
• $150-$280/night
• Good value

Tier 2: International Drive (I-Drive) Hotels

• 5-15 minute drive
• Many options
• $120-$220/night
• Shuttle service
• Restaurant access

Popular I-Drive Hotels:

• Hilton Orlando
• DoubleTree
• Holiday Inn
• Marriott
• Crowne Plaza

Tier 3: Universal/Disney Area

• 15-25 minutes away
• More resort options
• $150-$300/night
• Family-friendly if extending stay
• Need rental car

Booking Strategy

Timeline:

• Book immediately after registering
• October-November ideal
• Prices increase closer to show
• Many hotels sell out

PGA Show Housing Portal:

• Official housing partner
• Discounted group rates
• Shuttle service included
• Easy booking

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book early (save 30-40%)
• Share room with colleagues
• Off I-Drive cheaper
• Use loyalty points
• Extend weekend (lower rates Fri-Sun)

Transportation in Orlando

Getting to Orlando

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

• Major hub
• Direct flights from most cities
• 15 minutes to I-Drive
• 20 minutes to Convention Center

Airport Transportation:

• Rental car ($40-$60/day)
• Uber/Lyft ($25-$35 to I-Drive)
• Mears shuttle ($20 per person)
• Hotel shuttles (many offer free)

Getting Around

Best Option: Rental Car

• Freedom to explore
• Demo Days access
• Golf course visits
• Orlando spread out
• $40-$60/day

Alternative: Uber/Lyft

• Readily available
• $10-$20 per trip
• Surge pricing
• No parking hassles

I-Ride Trolley

• I-Drive route
• $2 per trip
• Slow but cheap
• Tourist-focused

Hotel Shuttles

• Most hotels offer convention center shuttle
• Free
• Fixed schedule
• Can be crowded

Walking

• Only if staying Convention Center hotels
• Otherwise need transportation
• Orlando not pedestrian-friendly

Food & Dining

Onsite Options

Convention Center Food:

• Food court
• Coffee stations
• Snack bars
• $15-$25 per meal
• Limited variety
• Long lines

Better Strategy:

• Leave for lunch
• I-Drive restaurants (5-min drive)
• More options
• Better value

Nearby Dining

Quick Lunch (Near Convention Center):

• Pointe Orlando: Multiple restaurants
• I-Drive corridor: Chain restaurants
• Food halls: Various options
• Budget: $15-$30 per person

Business Dinners:

• Ocean Prime: Upscale seafood/steak
• Capital Grille: Steak, fine dining
• Eddie V's: Seafood & cocktails
• Ruth's Chris: Classic steakhouse
• Budget: $60-$100 per person

Casual Networking:

• Yard House: Sports bar, huge menu
• Cheesecake Factory: Reliable, large groups
• Maggiano's: Italian, family-style
• Budget: $25-$40 per person

Pro Tips:

• Make dinner reservations NOW
• Business dinners very common
• Expense when appropriate
• I-Drive has everything
• Avoid theme park area (too far)

Breakfast Strategy

Onsite:

• Convention center coffee shops
• Quick grab-and-go
• $8-$12

Hotel:

• Many included breakfast
• Good networking time
• Leave by 8:30 AM

Early Meetings:

• Breakfast meetings common
• Schedule 7:30-8:30 AM
• Gets day started right

What to Pack

Essential Items

Professional:

• Business cards (500+)
• Tablet/laptop for notes
• Portable charger (essential!)
• Badge holder
• Backpack/tote bag
• Measuring tape (for retail display)
• Camera for products

Clothing:

• Business casual attire
• Comfortable walking shoes (CRITICAL)
• Golf attire (for Demo Days)
• Light jacket (halls can be cool)
• Layer options

Golf Gear (Demo Days):

• Golf glove
• Golf shoes
• Your putter (comparison)
• Your driver (comparison)
• Range finder (optional)
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen

Tech:

• Phone + charger
• Portable battery pack
• Charging cables
• Power strip (hotel room)
• Headphones

Comfort:

• Blister pads
• Pain relievers
• Hand sanitizer
• Water bottle (refillable)
• Snacks (energy bars)
• Breath mints
• Lip balm (AC is drying)

Staying Connected

Connectivity at PGA Show

WiFi:

• Free convention center WiFi
• Can be slow with 40,000 users
• Not reliable for calls
• Backup essential

Why eSIM is Essential:

For International Attendees:

• ✅ Arrive with US connectivity
• ✅ No airport SIM hunting
• ✅ Instant activation
• ✅ Keep home number active
• ✅ Much cheaper than roaming
• ✅ Reliable US network

For All Attendees:

• ✅ Backup when WiFi fails
• ✅ Mobile hotspot for laptop
• ✅ Navigation and rideshare
• ✅ Constant connectivity
• ✅ Separate business line
• ✅ Check orders remotely

Recommended Data:

• 5-10GB for the week
• More if doing video calls
• Hotspot usage
• Streaming content

Must-Have Apps:

• PGA Show app
• Uber/Lyft
• Google Maps
• Notes app
• LinkedIn
• Calendar
• Email
• Business card scanner

Business Strategy

For Golf Retailers/Pro Shops

Goals:

• Source new products
• Negotiate better terms
• Discover trends
• Build vendor relationships

Action Plan:

• Pre-schedule key vendor meetings
• Compare pricing across brands
• Look for exclusive opportunities
• Assess direct-ship programs
• Evaluate marketing support
• Check inventory systems

Buying Tips:

• Don't commit on spot
• Get everything in writing
• Ask about show specials
• Negotiate minimum orders
• Understand return policies
• Clarify shipping terms

For PGA Professionals

Goals:

• Improve instruction
• Find fitting solutions
• Enhance member experience
• Earn education credits

Action Plan:

• Attend teaching sessions
• Try fitting technology
• Explore lesson programs
• Network with peers
• Get CEU credits
• Discover member benefits

For Course Operators

Goals:

• Improve operations
• Find revenue opportunities
• Enhance guest experience
• Network with suppliers

Action Plan:

• Visit operations zone
• Explore tech solutions
• Compare tee sheet systems
• Review maintenance options
• Assess F&B opportunities
• Check safety products

For Industry Suppliers/Manufacturers

Goals:

• Generate leads
• Meet buyers
• Launch products
• Build brand awareness

Action Plan:

• Booth presence
• Demo schedule
• Lead capture system
• Follow-up strategy
• Media outreach
• Networking events

Money-Saving Tips

Registration:

• Early bird pricing (save $100-200)
• PGA member badge FREE
• Skip expensive add-ons if not needed

Accommodation:

• Book immediately (save 30-40%)
• Share room with colleagues
• Off I-Drive cheaper
• Use loyalty points
• Extend weekend for lower rate

Food:

• Breakfast included at hotel
• Bring snacks
• Leave convention center for lunch
• Happy hour specials
• Split dinner checks

Transportation:

• Split rental car cost
• Use hotel shuttles
• Walk if staying Convention Center hotel
• Share rideshares

Budget Examples:

Minimal:

• Badge: $0 (PGA member)
• Hotel: $150/night × 3 = $450
• Flights: $300-$500
• Car rental: $150 (4 days, split with colleague)
• Food: $50/day × 4 = $200
• Total: ~$1,100-$1,300

Standard:

• Badge + Demo Days: $50
• Hotel: $220/night × 4 = $880
• Flights: $400-$600
• Car rental: $180 (4 days)
• Food: $75/day × 4 = $300
• Total: ~$1,800-$2,000

VIP Experience:

• All-Access Pass: $395
• Hotel: $300/night × 5 = $1,500
• Flights: $500-$800
• Car rental: $200
• Food: $125/day × 5 = $625
• Awards gala: $125
• Entertainment: $200
• Total: ~$3,500-$4,000

Post-Show Follow-Up

Immediate Actions (Day 1-3)

• Organize business cards
• Scan all cards with app
• Back up photos
• Review notes
• Prioritize leads
• Send thank-you emails
• Connect on LinkedIn

Week 1

• Follow up with hot leads
• Request pricing/terms
• Schedule vendor calls
• Share findings with team
• Process expense reports
• Review session materials

Month 1

• Finalize orders
• Negotiate contracts
• Implement new ideas
• Train staff on new products
• Plan product launches
• Build vendor relationships

What to Expect in 2026

Industry Trends

Hot Topics:

• Sustainability: Eco-friendly products
• Technology: AI fitting, simulators
• Direct-to-Consumer: Brand strategies
• Inclusivity: Growing the game
• Youth Programs: Junior golf focus
• Course Technology: Operations automation

Product Innovations:

• AI-powered swing analysis
• Advanced materials science
• Personalization tech
• Sustainable materials
• Smart equipment
• Virtual coaching platforms

Final Checklist

8-12 Weeks Before:

• Register for show
• Book hotel
• Book flights
• Request time off
• Study exhibitor list

4-6 Weeks Before:

• Schedule meetings with key vendors
• Register for education sessions
• Book Demo Days if attending
• Make dinner reservations
• Get eSIM for connectivity

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Confirm all meetings
• Download PGA Show app
• Print badge
• Pack comfortable shoes
• Prepare business cards (500+)
• Review booth map
• Set up airport transfer

Day Before:

• Review schedule
• Charge all devices
• Pack golf glove (Demo Days)
• Confirm hotel
• Check weather forecast

Conclusion

The PGA Show 2026 is an unparalleled opportunity to advance your golf business, discover innovations, and network with industry leaders. Success comes from preparation, strategy, and follow-through.

Keys to Success: ✅ Plan early (accommodations & meetings) ✅ Attend Demo Days (try new equipment) ✅ Schedule key vendor meetings ✅ Network actively (exchange 200+ cards) ✅ Attend education sessions (CEU credits) ✅ Stay connected (eSIM essential) ✅ Take detailed notes ✅ Follow up promptly after show

See you in Orlando, January 21-24, 2026!

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Have PGA Show tips? Share your experience in the comments!