Mini golf tournaments aren’t just for pros or country clubs. Whether you’re planning a fundraiser, a birthday bash, a team-building event, or just a fun weekend with friends, a mini golf tournament is the perfect mix of low-key competition and good times. And the best part? You don’t need to be a golf expert to host one.
Here’s how to pull off a successful mini golf tournament — even if this is your first time organizing anything like it.
Start by picking a mini golf course that’s easy to work with and can accommodate your group size. Indoor or outdoor is up to you, but make sure the location:
Takes group reservations
Offers 18 holes (standard tournament length)
Has space nearby for registration, prizes, or snacks
If possible, call ahead and ask if they’ve hosted tournaments before. Many local courses love hosting groups and may offer discounts or reserved times.
You don’t need a complicated bracket or live scoreboard — but it helps to pick a simple format up front. Here are a few easy options:
Individual Play: Each person plays their own ball. Lowest total score wins.
Teams of Two: Pair players up and combine scores. Great for couples, kids, or coworkers.
Scramble Format: Each player hits, and the team chooses the best shot to play next from. This keeps things moving and can be great for casual or mixed-skill groups.
Whichever format you choose, make sure the rules are clear before tee-off.
Mini golf scorecards are usually provided at the course, but you can also print your own or use a simple score-tracking app. If it’s a larger group, assign a “scorekeeper” to each group to help avoid confusion.
Want to add some flair? Create custom scorecards with your group name, event date, or logo. Small details like that go a long way in making your event feel special.
Everyone loves a little reward. Prizes can be serious, funny, or totally made up. Here are a few ideas:
Lowest Score (Champion)
Best Team Name
Most Creative Outfit
Longest Shot (or wildest bounce)
“Most Honest Scorekeeper”
Gift cards, snacks, little trophies, or even handmade certificates can make the whole thing feel official without breaking the bank.
Tournaments don’t need to be super serious. The more fun you make it, the more memorable it’ll be. Think about adding a theme, dressing up, bringing music (if allowed), or giving each team a goofy name.
You can even create a quick “rules sheet” or welcome sign with check-in info, tournament rules, and where to go when it’s over.
Be sure someone takes photos or short videos during the tournament. Action shots, team selfies, or the final putt make for great keepsakes — and if you're running the tournament as a fundraiser or company event, you can use the content to share online afterward.
Wrap it all up with a little ceremony, even if it's just a quick announcement of the winners in the parking lot or snack bar. Give out the prizes, take a group photo, and thank everyone for coming. If you’re planning to do it again, this is also the perfect time to plant the seed: “Same time next year?”
You don’t need golf experience, a big budget, or a huge crowd to host a fun, successful mini golf tournament. With just a bit of planning, you can turn a casual game into a memorable event that people will talk about long after the final putt drops.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to host your event, MiniGolfList.com makes it easy to search by location, type, and amenities. Start planning your tournament today!
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