Swing and a Song: Tyler Braden to Headline Hoag Classic Charity Concert

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – January 14, 2026 – The worlds of professional golf and country music are set to collide against a Pacific sunset this March, as the Hoag Classic announced today that rising country music star Tyler Braden will headline its third annual Sunset Celebration & Concert. The event will take place at the luxurious VEA Newport Beach on Saturday, March 28, 2026, following the second round of tournament play.

The announcement signals a deepening of the tournament’s strategy to fuse high-stakes sports with popular entertainment, transforming the PGA TOUR Champions event into a multifaceted lifestyle and philanthropic festival for Orange County.

A Strategic Fusion of Sports and Entertainment

For one week each year, from March 22-29, the Hoag Classic brings golf legends like Fred Couples, Ernie Els, and Steve Stricker to the pristine greens of Newport Beach Country Club. But the event’s mission extends far beyond the competition. As one of the most significant philanthropic events on the PGA TOUR Champions, it has raised over $25 million to date for Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian and other local charities.

The integration of a high-profile concert is a calculated move to amplify that impact. By creating an experience that appeals to both golf aficionados and music lovers, the Hoag Classic broadens its audience, enhances its value proposition, and opens new revenue streams for its charitable mission. This model follows a successful trend seen in other major sporting events, such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, which leverages a festival-like atmosphere to attract a wider demographic and boost fundraising.

"The Sunset Celebration & Concert has quickly become one of the most anticipated events of tournament week," said Andrew Guarni, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Hoag. "Blending championship golf with live music, ocean views and an elevated fan experience, this year's concert will raise the bar due to Tyler Braden's authenticity, energy and connectivity with fans. This is a performance you won't want to miss."

This marks the third year for the signature Saturday night event, building on the success of previous concerts, including a 2025 performance by country duo LOCASH, which solidified the concert as a staple of the tournament week.

The Braden Effect: A Rising Star for a Premier Event

The choice of Tyler Braden as headliner is indicative of the event's ambition. Far from a legacy act, Braden is a country-rock powerhouse with significant momentum. The Alabama native, a former firefighter, has built a massive following with his powerful vocals and relatable songwriting, racking up over 952 million global streams. With breakout hits like "Devil You Know" and three No. 1 songs on SiriusXM The Highway's Hot 30 Countdown, he represents a fresh and energetic force in country music.

Having toured with industry giants like Luke Bryan and Chris Stapleton, and recently headlining his own tours, Braden's presence is a significant draw. His selection is designed to attract a vibrant, cross-generational audience, aligning with the tournament's goal of creating a dynamic community event.

Braden himself expressed enthusiasm for the unique pairing of golf and music for a good cause. "Good music and a Pacific sunset are hard to beat. I'm honored to be part of this year's Hoag Classic Sunset Celebration & Concert, an event that brings the community together for a great cause," Braden stated. "Looking forward to performing and being part of a special week alongside some of the biggest names in golf."

An Elevated Experience: Beyond the 18th Hole

The venue itself is a key part of the appeal. The concert will unfold at VEA Newport Beach, a Marriott Resort & Spa known for its sweeping ocean views and luxurious amenities. With over 70,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, including Southern California's largest ocean-facing event lawn, the resort provides a stunning backdrop for an evening of entertainment. The concert aims to deliver what organizers call an "elevated fan experience."

To cater to this experience, the Hoag Classic has introduced new 'Boots & Birdie' ticket packages for 2026. The Pool Deck Boots & Birdie Package offers Saturday tournament access plus admission to the concert grounds. For those seeking a premium experience, the VIP Boots & Birdie Package includes a Saturday Clubhouse badge for the tournament and exclusive entry into the Marea VIP Terrace, presented by Konica Minolta, a chic indoor/outdoor space with prime views of the stage and the Pacific.

This tiered ticketing strategy is designed to capture a broad audience, from casual fans to those seeking a high-end social experience, with all proceeds directly benefiting the event's charitable partners.

Philanthropy at the Forefront

At its core, the glitter of championship golf and the energy of a live concert are in service of a greater goal: community support. The money raised by the Hoag Classic provides critical funding for Hoag's renowned institutes, including the Hoag Family Cancer Institute, the Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart and Vascular Institute, and the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center. The tournament's philanthropic reach extends to more than 50 other local organizations, with a special focus on military, first responder, and educational charities.

The 'Boots & Birdie' ticket packages are a direct channel for concertgoers to contribute to this legacy. With strong demand anticipated, the success of the concert will translate directly into tangible benefits for the health and well-being of the Orange County community.

The Hoag Classic continues to innovate, proving that a sporting event can be a powerful engine for community engagement and charity. As the legends of golf compete for the title at Newport Beach Country Club, the addition of Tyler Braden’s performance ensures the impact of the tournament will resonate long after the final putt drops.