PGA WEST

W hen The American Express returns to La Quinta January 20-23, the tournament will feature some of the biggest names in professional golf competing on one of the PGA Tour's most iconic golf courses. But with all of the festivities taking place outside the ropes on the Pete Dye Stadium Course – along with the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course and La Quinta Country Club – the event is much more than just a golf tournament. Here are a few things happening off the golf courses that make The AMEX such a special occasion for Coachella Valley residents and visitors: >> The tournament's Concert Series has been a showcase for some of the top stars in the entertainment business since 2017. This year, Grammy-winning pop rock band Maroon 5 and country music star Brad Paisley will comprise the musical lineup, performing on the Pete Dye Stadium Course driving range. Maroon 5 will open the Concert Series after the conclusion of second-round play on Friday, January 21, with Paisley taking the stage after the third round on Saturday, January 22. >> Also happening outside the ropes will be the First Tee Fun Zone in association with First Tee – Coachella Valley on Sunday, January 23 from 1-5 p.m. The festivities will take place at the PGA WEST driving range and will consist of fun and engaging golf games in a carnival-like atmosphere for kids ages 4-18. No experience is necessary and all equipment will be provided. >> Finally, the event has long been known for its charitable giving, raising more than $63 million for non-profit organizations since its inception in 1960. In November, The American Express and The Mickelson Foundation donated $1.1 million from the 2021 event toward Coachella Valley- based charities that support health and wellness, youth sports, education and more. SOMETHING FOR ALL The American Express is so much more than a golf tournament FYI Everything you need to know about The American Express > When: January 20-23, 2022. ....................................... > Where: PGA WEST's Pete Dye Stadium Course and Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club. ....................................... > Defending champ: Si Woo Kim. ....................................... > Tournament host: Phil Mickelson. ....................................... > Concert Series: Maroon 5 and Brad Paisley will perform at the PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Course on January 21-22. ....................................... > Fun fact: The American Express is the first PGA Tour regular season event in the continental U.S. each year and kicks off the West Coast Swing. ....................................... > Health and safety: It is anticipated that all spectators are to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, or a negative test taken within 72 hours of entry into the tournament. ....................................... > > CLICK HERE for AMEX tickets. Clockwise, from left: Country star Brad Paisley; $1.1 million went to charity from the 2021 event; rock band Maroon 5; the iconic 17th on the Pete Dye Stadium Course.

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