The 2026 Masters Tournament, marking the 90th edition of this prestigious major championship, is scheduled to take place from Monday, April 6, through Sunday, April 12, 2026. As is tradition, the event will be held at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. The main four-day competition for the Green Jacket will commence on Thursday, April 9, and conclude on Sunday, April 12.

For golf enthusiasts and patrons planning to attend or follow the action, understanding the rhythm of Masters week is essential. The tournament follows a rigid and storied schedule that transforms the quiet city of Augusta into the epicenter of the sporting world for seven days.

The 2026 Masters Week Daily Schedule

The Masters is unique among golf’s major championships because the festivities and preparation rounds are just as integral to the experience as the tournament itself. Here is the chronological breakdown of the week in April 2026.

Monday, April 6: Practice Rounds Begin

The gates of Augusta National open to patrons for the first official practice round. This is often the best day for fans to walk the entire course and see players testing the greens and experimenting with different clubs. Unlike the tournament days, the atmosphere is slightly more relaxed, though the focus on preparation is intense.

Tuesday, April 7: Practice Rounds and Champions Dinner

Practice rounds continue throughout the day. Players often use Tuesday to refine their strategies at "Amen Corner" (Holes 11, 12, and 13). In the evening, the traditional Champions Dinner takes place. This exclusive event, officially known as the Masters Club, is hosted by the defending champion and attended only by past winners of the tournament.

Wednesday, April 8: The Par 3 Contest

Wednesday is perhaps the most beloved day for patrons. Before the final practice session concludes, the Par 3 Contest is held on the club's dedicated nine-hole short course. This event is a family affair where professional golfers often have their children or spouses act as caddies. It is a lighthearted tradition that precedes the high-stakes pressure of the following morning.

Thursday, April 9: Round 1 of the 90th Masters

The first round of the main competition begins. The day usually starts with the Honorary Starters—legends of the game—taking the ceremonial first tee shots at the first hole. By the end of the day, the initial leaderboard takes shape, providing the first glimpse of who might be in contention for the title.

Friday, April 10: Round 2 and the Cut

The second round is a day of high tension as it determines which players will stay for the weekend. The Masters applies a specific cut rule: the top 50 players (including ties) advance to the final two rounds. Those who fail to meet the cut must exit the tournament, leaving the field narrowed for the championship chase.

Saturday, April 11: Round 3 (Moving Day)

Known traditionally as "Moving Day," the third round is when players attempt to position themselves for a Sunday charge. The pin positions often become more challenging, and the pressure of the impending final round starts to dictate strategy. By Saturday evening, the final pairings for Sunday are set.

Sunday, April 12: The Final Round and Green Jacket Ceremony

The tournament reaches its climax on Sunday. The leaders typically tee off in the early afternoon, with the drama often peaking at the 18th hole (Holly). Following the conclusion of play, the winner is presented with the Green Jacket in the iconic Butler Cabin and subsequently at a public ceremony on the 18th green.

Venue Details: Augusta National Golf Club in 2026

Augusta National remains the only permanent venue for a men’s major championship. For the 2026 edition, the course continues its evolution to maintain its challenge against modern professional equipment and skill levels.

Course Modifications and Yardage

The course for the 2026 Masters is set at a par 72, with a total length of approximately 7,565 yards. One of the most significant recent changes involves the 17th hole, named "Nandina." For the 90th edition, this hole has been lengthened by 10 yards, bringing its total distance to 450 yards. This adjustment requires a more precise drive to navigate the famous Eisenhower Tree area and sets up a more difficult approach to the green.

New Infrastructure: Player Services Building

Patrons and players will also notice the full utilization of the new three-story player services building. This facility was designed to provide state-of-the-art amenities for the field of approximately 90 to 100 players, ensuring that the logistical experience matches the prestige of the tournament itself.

How to Secure Tickets for the 2026 Masters

Securing a ticket to the Masters is widely considered one of the most difficult feats in sports. The tournament does not sell tickets through traditional retail outlets; instead, it utilizes a rigorous lottery system.

The Patron Badge Lottery

The primary way to obtain tickets for either the practice rounds or the competitive rounds is through the official application process at the tournament's website. The application window typically opens in the late spring or early summer of the year preceding the tournament. For the 2026 Masters, the application process generally occurs in mid-2025.

  1. Application: Fans must register and submit their request for specific days.
  2. Selection: Winners are chosen through a random drawing.
  3. Notification: Applicants are usually notified by mid-summer via email regarding their status.
  4. Payment: If selected, payment must be completed within a strict timeframe to secure the badges.

Practice Round vs. Tournament Round Tickets

Practice round tickets (Monday–Wednesday) are generally easier to win in the lottery compared to tournament badges (Thursday–Sunday). However, even practice round tickets are in extremely high demand. It is important to note that Masters tickets are non-transferable, and the club maintains strict policies against resale.

Broadcasting and Streaming: Watching the 2026 Masters

For the millions of fans who will not be at Augusta National in person, the 2026 Masters will be accessible through a variety of traditional and digital platforms. The broadcast rights are divided to ensure comprehensive coverage of the entire week.

Television Coverage

  • ESPN: Historically, ESPN carries the live coverage for the first and second rounds on Thursday and Friday. Their broadcast typically begins in the mid-afternoon Eastern Time, focusing on the early leaders and marquee groups.
  • CBS Sports: CBS takes over the primary broadcast for the weekend. They provide the definitive coverage for the third and final rounds on Saturday and Sunday. The "Masters on CBS" is one of the longest-running partnerships in sports broadcasting, known for its distinctive music and calm, professional commentary.

Digital and Streaming Options

The Masters has pioneered digital sports viewing. The official tournament website and the Masters app offer free live streaming of specific areas of the course:

  • Amen Corner Stream: Continuous coverage of holes 11, 12, and 13.
  • Featured Groups: Following select groups from the first tee to the 18th green.
  • Holes 15 and 16: Focused coverage of the pivotal par-5 15th and the iconic par-3 16th.
  • Masters Early Windows: Streaming coverage often begins hours before the television broadcast starts, allowing fans to follow every player in the field.

Tournament Traditions to Observe in 2026

The Masters is defined by its traditions, many of which remain unchanged since the tournament's inception in 1934.

The Green Jacket

The most famous prize in golf, the Green Jacket, was first introduced in 1937 for club members and awarded to the champion for the first time in 1949 (Sam Snead). The winner of the 2026 Masters will receive their jacket from the 2025 champion, symbolizing the passing of the title.

The "No Cell Phone" Policy

Augusta National maintains a strict ban on cellular devices for patrons on the grounds. This policy ensures that the focus remains entirely on the golf and contributes to the unique, unplugged atmosphere of the tournament. In 2026, this rule remains a cornerstone of the patron experience.

Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

For those attending in person, the concessions are a tradition in themselves. The famous pimento cheese sandwich remains a staple, known for its consistent recipe and remarkably low price, bucking the trend of expensive concessions at other major sporting events.

Travel and Logistics for Augusta, Georgia

Attending the 2026 Masters requires significant planning. Augusta is located approximately two hours east of Atlanta.

  • Accommodation: Hotels in the Augusta area are often booked years in advance, with prices increasing significantly during tournament week. Many visitors choose to stay in nearby towns like Aiken, South Carolina, or even as far as Columbia or Atlanta, commuting into the city each morning.
  • Parking: Augusta National provides free parking for patrons in a massive, well-organized lot adjacent to the course. It is recommended to arrive early, as gates typically open at 8:00 AM.
  • Weather: April in Georgia can be unpredictable. While usually warm and sunny, spring storms are common. Patrons are advised to check local forecasts, as play can be suspended due to lightning or heavy rain.

Summary of the 2026 Masters Schedule

The 2026 Masters promises to be a historic event as the 90th iteration of the tournament. With Rory McIlroy entering as a major focal point following his recent successes, the eyes of the world will be on Augusta National from April 6 to April 12.

Day Date Event
Monday April 6 First Practice Round
Tuesday April 7 Practice Round / Champions Dinner
Wednesday April 8 Par 3 Contest / Final Practice
Thursday April 9 Tournament Round 1
Friday April 10 Tournament Round 2 (The Cut)
Saturday April 11 Tournament Round 3 (Moving Day)
Sunday April 12 Final Round / Jacket Ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the exact dates for the 2026 Masters?

The 2026 Masters Tournament runs from April 6 to April 12, 2026. The competitive rounds take place from Thursday, April 9, to Sunday, April 12.

Where is the Masters held every year?

The Masters is always held at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, USA. It is the only one of the four major championships that does not rotate venues.

When will 2026 Masters tickets go on sale?

Tickets are distributed via a lottery. The application period for the 2026 tournament is expected to open in June 2025 and close in late June or early July 2025.

What time do the gates open at Augusta National?

During Masters week, gates typically open at 8:00 AM ET and close 30 minutes after the conclusion of play or the end of the day's activities.

Can I bring my phone to the 2026 Masters?

No. Augusta National strictly prohibits cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices on the grounds during both practice and tournament rounds. Cameras are only permitted during practice rounds (Monday through Wednesday).

Who is the defending champion for the 2026 Masters?

Rory McIlroy enters the 2026 cycle with significant momentum, having won the previous year's event. He remains one of the elite few, alongside legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, to have achieved consecutive successes at Augusta.

How long is the course at Augusta National for the 2026 tournament?

The course is expected to play at 7,565 yards for 2026, featuring a par of 72. This includes the recently lengthened 17th hole.