The Village Greens Golf Course, a public, 18-hole executive golf course in Port Orchard, opens for the season on March 13.

“This course is ideal for families, women and beginning golfers, and it is the exact type of golf course the game needs to bring new golfers to the game,” USGA consultant Larry Gilhuly said.

“At the same time, it’s still challenging for experienced golfers and those working on their short game.”

On opening day, the celebration will feature free greens fees for all golfers. The course will be open from 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. All guests attending opening day are eligible to win prizes by participating in a variety of family-oriented golf contests.

In addition to the contests, golf instructor Howard Blakes is providing three half-hour clinics beginning at noon. Blakes, who teaches beginner and intermediate golf lessons at the course, said he plans to hold several public tournaments this year. PGA golf professional Bruce Weir will offer free clinics to experienced golfers. He asks that interested golfers contact him at bruceaweir@hotmail.com to schedule.

The First Tee Program, a low-cost youth program focusing on teaching the game of golf while also teaching life skills, returns this season. The program is designed for youth ages 6-18. The First Tee Program will have a series of sessions throughout the year, beginning April 24. Program instructors will attend the festivities on opening day to meet families from 3-5 p.m.

Village Greens Golf Course is located at 2298 Fircrest Drive SE in Port Orchard, across from Orchard Heights Elementary School. March hours at the course are 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., Wednesdays through Mondays. The course is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance.

The course also has a covered driving range, as well as putting and chipping greens. Rental clubs and pull carts are available.

More information about the course can be found at www.villagegreensgolfcourse.com.