The latest evidence of the Lehigh Valley being a region on the rise was announced April 24, when the growing community was selected as the location for a globally televised golf tournament that could infuse $50 million into the local economy. 
Starting next year, Lehigh Country Club will host the Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic PGA TOUR Champions tournament. It is sponsored by Jefferson Health, which recently merged with Lehigh Valley Health Network. The event is scheduled for at least the next five years. Proceeds from the event will benefit Valley Youth House and the Eagles Autism Foundation.
“It’s a win for Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic, a win for the country club, a win for the community, a win for the spectators, and especially a win for the economic impact and for local charities,” PGA TOUR Champions President Miller Brady said.
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk, a member of the Board of Directors of Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC), said it would have “huge economic impact” for the region.
“What's even better, though, is putting this on the map, this continuing to make sure that the Lehigh Valley, which is growing in stature, which is growing as a destination, which is growing as a place that people want to be,” Tuerk said. “Events like this help the rest of the United States and the rest of the world see just how special Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, and the entire Lehigh Valley are.”
The Lehigh Valley is one of the fastest-growing communities in the Northeast, as people flock to the region for jobs and the high quality of life.
With a $55.7 billion Gross Domestic Product, the Lehigh Valley has undergone an economic renaissance. It has regularly been named one of the top mid-sized markets in the U.S. for economic development.
The region is growing because people recognize the variety of personal and professional opportunities. Lehigh Valley is at a record level of jobs, more than 340,000. Median household income is the highest ever, $81,709. The region boasts nationally acclaimed healthcare systems, public schools, and colleges and universities. Its downtowns are thriving, with nightlife and new housing.
The Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic will become the latest draw to the region, which is home to Musikfest - the largest ungated music festival in the world - the Lehigh Valley IronPigs and Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Last year, the Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem were named a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of only 26 locations in the U.S. to achieve that prestigious designation that recognizes cultural and historical significance. Others include Independence Hall and the Statue of Liberty.
Lehigh Valley’s plentiful outdoors amenities includes the Appalachian Trail, with breath-taking overlooks like Bake Oven Knob. There are more than 111,000 acres of woods and seven miles of waterways, including the Lehigh and the Delaware rivers.
The Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic is more than about golf, organizers stressed. In addition to the economic impact, proceeds will go to charities. And, the Lehigh Valley’s brand will be on display for the world.
The three-round tournament will be televised on GOLF Channel. Internationally, PGA TOUR Champions coverage is available in more than 170 countries and territories.
Lehigh Country Club is regarded as one of the top golf destinations not only in the Lehigh Valley, but in Pennsylvania. It routinely is ranked among the top courses in the state. The club moved to its current location in Lower Macungie Township, in 1928, with the course designed by the renowned architect William S. Flynn.
“We are extremely proud to be the host site of the Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic, which will bring significant economic impact, national media exposure and, of course, charitable giving to our region,” said Rich Adams, Board President at Lehigh Country Club.
“We're going to create a week of activities that everyone can enjoy. It's not just going to be for the golfing. It's going to be for everyone who really enjoys being a part of a really strong, healthy, vibrant community,” said Dan Sullivan, an Allentown native who is Managing Partner of HNS Sports Group, which will manage the event.
“This is all about making a long-term, positive impact on the Lehigh Valley and the surrounding areas,” said Dr. Joe Cacchione, CEO of Jefferson Health. “As we continue to integrate our two leading health systems, it’s important that we drive awareness and access to our uncompromising care throughout the region.”
The inaugural Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic will be held Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2026. It is expected to feature a field of 78 PGA TOUR Champions players, including Stewart Cink, Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington, and Bernhard Langer. PGA TOUR Champions includes golfers age 50 and older. It was formerly known as the Senior PGA Tour and the Champions Tour.
“We’re excited to bring local golf enthusiasts an unforgettable experience and look forward to making a lasting, positive impact on the community for years to come,” Brady said.
The golf tournament is the latest to be held in Lehigh Valley. Previously, the region hosted the U.S. Senior Open at Saucon Valley Country Club in 2022. That club also hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in 2009.
(Lehigh Country Club photo courtesy of HNS Sports Group. Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic photo courtesy of Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health)