Hosting a golf outing is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding ways to brin people together whether it’s a corporate event, charity fundraiser, or just a fun day with friends. But as anyone who’s planned one before knows, there are a lot of moving parts that go into making it a success.

At Reston National Golf Course, our team has helped groups of all sizes host memorable, seamless, and fun outings right here in the heart of Northern Virginia. To help you get started, we’ve put together our top tips for planning the perfect golf outing, from the early plannin stages to the final putt.

Choose your Date Early

The best golf outing dates fill up fast, espically spring and fall dates. If you are planning a 2026 event, we recommend reserving your preferred date as soon as possible. Booking early ensures you’ll have flexibility with tee times and access to the amenities that make your event special, like our deck for post-receptions, on-course contests, and dedicated outing staff to handle all the details.

Learn more about hosting your event on our Golf Outings page.

Define Your Event Goals

Ask yourself: What’s the main purpose of this outing?

• Corporate event: Focus on networking and client engagment.
• Charity fundraiser: Build fun contests and raffles into the day to raise money.
• Social or club event: Emphasize camaraderie, team spirit, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Understanding your goals helps our team tailor your outing package from the formate to the food to ensure your event feels exactly right.

Pick the Right Format

The most popular outing formate is a four-person scramble, which keeps playing moving and allows golfers of all skil levels to participate. But there are other fun options too, including:

• Best ball: Great for competitive groups
• Shamble: Combines the best tee shot with individual play.
• Match Play: Perfect for small, head-to-head events.

Our team can help you choose the best format for your group’s size, skill level, and schedule.

Add Contests and On-Course Fun

Keep energy high and spirist light with friendly comptition. Consider adding:

• Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests
• A Beat the Pro challenge with one of our PGA instructors
• Hole-in-One prizes for an extra thrill

These extras not only make the day more exciting but also give sponsors and charlities additional exposure opportuinies.

Plan a Memorable Finish

A great outing doesn’t end on the 18th green. It ends with laughter, stories, and celebration.

Host a post-round lunch, dinner or happy hour on our spacious deck to hand out prizes, host silent auctions and thank your participants. Our team can help create the perfect menu.

Ready to Plan Your 2026 Golf Outing?

Whether it’s your first event of your fiftieth, our team at Reston National Golf Course will make sure it’s one to remember.

Dates for the 2026 season are now open, so don’t wait to lock in your preferred date.

Contact our team today to start planning your perfect golf outing!

Playing golf for the first time at a new course can be exciting – and maybe a little intimidating. At Reston National, we want your round to feel welcoming, enjoyable, and memorable, whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your golf journey. Here’s everything you need to know before you tee it up with us.

Arriving at the Course

Plan to arrive about 30-45 minutes before your tee time. This gives you plenty of time to:

• Check in a the pro shop
• Grab a coffee, snack, or cold beverage
• Warm up on our driving range or practice green

If you’re renting clubs, our staff will have everything ready for you.

What to Wear

We recommend golf attire – collared shirts and golf shoes if you them – but don’t stress. Casual, comfortable clothing works too. Athletic shoes are perfectly fine if you don’t have golf shoes. The key is to feel comfortable and ready to swing.

On the Course

Once you head to the first tee, here’s what you can expect:

• Pace of Play: A typical 18-hole round takes at least 4 hours and 30 minutes. To keep your day enjoyable, be ready when it’s your turn to hit, and play from the set of tees that best match your ability.
• Tee Options: Choose the tees that fit your game – there’s no pressure to play from the back if you’re not ready.
• Cart rules: Our golf carts display restricted areas where carts are not permitted, so you’ll always know where to drive and where to stay on the path.

Food & Drinks

Half the fun of golf is enjoying a good bite or drink along the way. Stop by PinHigh before or after your round, or catch the beverage cart on the course for cold drinks and snacks. We also feature rotating monthly food and drink specials – perfect for making your golf day even better.

After Your Round

Don’t rush off! Relax on our deck, grab a meal, or hang out with friends and family. Reston National hosts live music, outings, and community events throughout the year, so there’s always something happening beyond the 18th hole.

Ready to Play?

We’d love to welcome you for your first round at Reston National. Book your tee time today and experience one of Norhtern Virginia’s premier public golf course.

Book your Tee Time Now!