Buffalo and Niagara Falls to Host 2026 PDGA Amateur World Championships

Buffalo, NY & Niagara Falls, NY — The Buffalo-Niagara region has been selected to host the prestigious 2026 Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) Amateur World Championships. This highly anticipated event marks the first PDGA World Championship hosted in New York since the 2011 Amateur Worlds in Rochester.

Scheduled to take place across four premier courses—Bond Lake, Royalton Ravine, Black Diamond at Emery Park, and the Lighthouse at Como Lake—the tournament will challenge competitors with a diverse mix of rolling hills, wooded fairways, and scenic landscapes. These courses are sure to become player favorites and will test every shot in their arsenals.

"Hosting the PDGA Amateur Championships is an incredible honor, and we are thrilled to welcome players and fans to the Buffalo-Niagara region for this historic event!" said Sam Castiglione, Tournament Director. "Thank you to our tournament team, Western New York Disc Golf Club, our vibrant community, Erie and Niagara County, the Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission, and Destination Niagara USA for their unwavering support. This marks the first major championship awarded to our region, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to showcase our world-class courses, stunning attractions, and warm hospitality. Together, we are ready to make this event unforgettable!"

The PDGA Amateur World Championships will bring over 500 amateur athletes to the region, further elevating the growing sport of disc golf while boosting local tourism and economic impact. Players and spectators will have the opportunity to experience the iconic Niagara Falls, enjoy Buffalo’s famous wings, and explore the many attractions and cultural offerings throughout Erie and Niagara counties.

John Percy, President & CEO of Destination Niagara USA, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are excited to welcome the PDGA Amateur World Championships to Niagara County and Western New York. This event will shine a spotlight on our incredible disc golf courses while also introducing players and fans to the unparalleled beauty and attractions of the Niagara Falls region. We look forward to providing an exceptional experience for all attendees and showcasing everything that makes our destination so special."

Visit Buffalo Niagara and the Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission also celebrated the announcement. "We are thrilled that the Buffalo-area is hosting this first-time PDGA tournament," said Patrick Kaler, President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara. "This is a great opportunity to showcase Buffalo and share the up-and-coming sport of disc golf with the community and the athletes. Erie and Niagara County have some of the best disc golf courses in the Northeast. Now, 500 amateur athletes will get to experience them. The visiting players will have lots of opportunities to check out our breweries, cultural stops, and highlights. The disc-golf culture fits in perfectly with the community of Erie and Niagara County."

With world-class competition, breathtaking scenery, and a welcoming community, the 2026 PDGA Amateur World Championships in Buffalo and Niagara Falls promises to be an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.

Destination Niagara USA works to ensure Niagara County is a preferred international destination for group and leisure travel. It supports its mission to expand the economic prosperity of Niagara County by generating individual and group visitation. For more information, visit NiagaraFallsUSA.com.