The Gaslamp Quarter is being transformed into an urban pickleball destination as Urban Pickleball returns to Fifth Avenue for a second straight year.
This Urban Pickleball event, which starts Thursday evening, gives players the chance to play in the middle of Fifth Avenue.
The sport combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with more than 24 million players.
Many of those players are in San Diego, which is why the Gaslamp Quarter Association is bringing the event back.
“People really enjoy the healthy aspect of being outside and playing pickleball on Fifth Avenue, which is a total experience. It’s totally different than any other pickleball venue that you would play at,” said Michael Trimble, director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association.
Thirteen courts, including three pro courts, will be set up on the street. The event will also feature DJs and a vendor village.
“We also do specials with all the merchants that are down in the Gaslamp, not just in the venue, but all throughout the Gaslamp Quarter. So really, it’s a great opportunity for a positive business push during that off hour,” Trimble said.
Urban Pickleball starts at 4 p.m. and continues through sunset. The event takes place Thursday evenings for the next six weeks.
Registration is $45, and participants can register in person or online at GaslampUrbanPickleball.com.