When Is National Pickleball Day?

📆 Thursday, August 8th, 2024

Thursday, August 8th, is National Pickleball Day. According to the list of National Days, it’s also National Frozen Custard Day and National CBD Day, among others. But even though this holiday is shared with others, pickleball has been picking up lately. What was once a sport played mostly by seniors is now the fastest-growing sport in the US for three years in a row. 

If you need more reason to try this cardio-boosting pastime, know it was invented on Bainbridge Island. During the summer of ‘65, two dads returned from golfing to their families doing nothing. These fathers of invention instructed their families to take what they had on hand—ping-pong paddles, a perforated plastic ball, and an old badminton court—and make a NEW GAME. 

@iam_kjmiller Case closed. #pickleball ♬ original sound – KJ Miller

While the sport has steadily grown in popularity, one place you won’t find it is at the Olympics. (At least not yet.) But if you want to hop on the bandwagon before the phenomenon goes worldwide, here are some ways to celebrate National Pickleball Day in the Seattle area:

• Head to Tukwila for their National Pickleball Day Event at Tukwila Parks & Recreation facilities. | Thursday, August 8th @ 5 pm – 10 pm
• Play in (or watch) the ​​Founder’s Tournament on Bainbridge Island. | Wednesday, August 7th – Sunday, August 11th
• Take a class for beginners to learn the basics.
• Find a Seattle Parks and Greater Metro Pickleball Court to practice on. 

💌 Be Our Pen Pal! Find out what’s happening in Seattle by subscribing to our newsletter.