The Best Darts Tournaments Fans Should Experience Live

Darts isn’t just a pub pastime anymore—it’s a full-blown spectacle. With roaring crowds, dramatic walk-ons, and nail-biting finishes, the top darts tournaments offer an atmosphere that rivals any major sporting event. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, here are the best darts tournaments you should absolutely consider attending.

 

🏆 1. PDC World Darts Championship

📍 Alexandra Palace, London 📅 December–January

The crown jewel of darts. Held annually at the iconic Ally Pally, this tournament is the sport’s biggest stage. The 2026 event features 128 players from around the globe,an increase of 32 from 2025.

The 2026 One Million Pound first Prize is the biggest darts event in history. The energy is electric, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Fancy dress, chants, and beer-fuelled camaraderie make this a bucket-list event for any darts fan.

 

🌍 2. World Series of Darts

📍 Global Venues 📅 May–September

This globe-trotting non-ranking series brings elite darts action to cities like New York, Copenhagen, Bahrain, Sydney, and Amsterdam. It’s a chance for fans outside the UK to witness legends like Michael van Gerwen and Luke Littler in action. Each stop offers a unique cultural twist on the darts experience.

 

🎤 3. Premier League Darts

📍 Multiple UK & European Arenas 📅 February–May

Think of it as darts meets a rock concert. This weekly tour features eight of the top PDC players battling it out across 17 nights in massive arenas. From Manchester’s AO Arena to Berlin’s Mercedes-Benz Arena, fans get a front-row seat to high-octane matches and unforgettable walk-ons.

 

☀️ 4. World Matchplay

📍 Winter Gardens, Blackpool 📅 July

Nicknamed the “Summer World Championship,” this tournament is steeped in tradition. The Victorian venue adds a touch of class, while the seaside town of Blackpool offers fans a perfect summer getaway. The Phil Taylor Trophy awaits the winner, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.

 

🏅 5. Grand Slam of Darts

📍 Wolverhampton 📅 November

This unique event used to feature PDC and the cream of the now-defunct BDO champions in a cross-organisational showdown. However, since the BDO's demise in 2020, the qualification form has changed and now only features PDC players, including the top women by the Women's Order of Merit. The format includes group stages, providing fans with more matches and increased drama. It's a great way to see different styles and rivalries unfold.

⚡ 6. UK Open

📍 Butlin’s Minehead 📅 February / March

Dubbed the "FA Cup of Darts," this tournament is renowned for its open draw and frequent surprises, including upsets. Amateurs and pros collide, making for unpredictable and thrilling matches. The venue's holiday park setting adds a relaxed, festival-like vibe.

🎟️ Tips for Attending

• Book early: Top events sell out fast,especially the World Championship.
• Dress up: Fancy dress is part of the fun—think superheroes, bananas, or Elvis.
• Learn the chants: “Stand up if you love the darts!” is just the beginning.
• Go VIP: Hospitality packages offer premium seating, food, and meet-and-greets.

Whether you're chasing the thrill of a nine-darter or just soaking in the party atmosphere, these tournaments deliver unforgettable experiences similar to big piggy bank slot. So grab your tickets, don your costume, and get ready to shout “180!” with thousands of fellow fans.