STATELINE, Nev. – The American Century Championship (ACC) is more than just a celebrity golf tournament, it’s a week filled with show-stopping excitement, millions of funds raised for nonprofits, and unforgettable, interactive experiences for all those who attend.
“We try to build out as much as we can every night to make it as fun for all of our guests and for the town too,” said Gary Quinn, vice president, partnerships and general manager, owned properties at NBC Sports.
A variety of events outside of the golf itself are officially in motion. Here’s the breakdown.
Friday, July 10
NBA on NBC
A three-point shooting contest kicks off the weekend at the No. 17 tee, and celebrities will compete to claim the title of 2026 “ACC 3-Point Champion”.
In years passed, we’ve seen trick shots like Jason Kelce’s backwards and between-the-legs bucket, as well as easy-ins with perfect form from NBA stars like Vince Carter, Ray Allen and Grant Hill.
It’s a toss up across the board and poses the question of who will bring their A-game this year to snatch the victory.
Corona Beach Challenge
Stakes are high starting at 4 p.m. as nine celebrities, to be announced on Thursday, July 9, compete to win $10,000 by hitting two shots from the sandy beach, in classic Corona fashion, at par 3, No. 17.
The Corona Beach challenge will replace the Korbel Closest to the Pin Contest whose winner last year was Hally Leadbetter.
Rascal Flatts at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre
Along with the debut of their official ACC theme song, “Tahoe Nights”, Rascal Flatts will be performing at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic on July 10 at 8 p.m.
The award-winning trio has visited Tahoe several times, including in 2010 and 2013. This year, they’re making another stop as part of their Life is a Highway Tour 2026.
Prepare to hear hits like “God Bless the Broken Road”, “My Wish”, and of course, their iconic “Life is a Highway”.
Tickets are going fast. Visit Ticketmaster.com to secure your seats.
Saturday, July 11
United States Air Force Flyover
In honor of the nation’s 250th birthday, two USAF T-38 aircraft will soar the skies over the 17th and 18th holes of Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. Prior to the flyover, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office honor guard will play the national anthem, celebrating 250 years of America.
“It has to be timed perfectly,” said Quinn. “The flyover will be right at noon on Saturday. We’re looking forward to it. Should be pretty cool for the people on the ground.”
Nate Bargatze at the Tahoe Blue Event Center
While making a reappearance in this year’s celebrity golf tournament, Nate Bargatze will also make a stop at Tahoe Blue Event Center to perform his Grammy-winning comedy on Saturday night.
Known as the “King of Clean Comedy”, Bargatze’s show is the perfect family-friendly event, bringing laughter to folks of all ages.
His performance in Tahoe is part of his massive, global tour, “Big Dumb Eyes”, with tickets in high demand across the nation.
The show starts at 8 p.m. on July 11. To purchase tickets, visit tahoeblueeventcenter.com
Sunday, July 12
Gene Upshaw Scholarship Award Presentation
For its 18th year, the Gene Upshaw Scholarship Award will be presented to Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) student, Valery Gonzalez.
Established in 2009 and every year since, the scholarship aims to honor an outstanding student with $10,000 who proves excellence in academics, athletics and community service.
The award will be presented to Gonzalez by Terri Upshaw, Gary Quinn, NBC, and Nancy Harrison, Executive Director of LTCC Foundation and College Partnerships.
The presentation will take place at 10 a.m. in the media tent.
