Clubs and countries worldwide are being encouraged to unite behind World Pickleball Day on 10 October 2026 by hosting taster sessions that could inspire the next generation of players, organisers, and ambassadors for the sport.

This year marks the 7th anniversary of World Pickleball Day, and there is a growing call for clubs, associations, and community venues across the world to celebrate by opening their doors to new players on 10.10.26, or on dates around it.

The message is simple: invite people to try pickleball for the very first time.

Across the globe, pickleball continues to grow at an extraordinary pace, and experience shows that one introductory session can have a lasting impact far beyond the court.

A powerful example comes from Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex, where a local club first held World Pickleball Day taster sessions back in 2021.

At that time, the club ran just one session a week.

Today, it now hosts four weekly sessions, with demand so strong that an additional club has since been created to provide evening sessions for new and existing players.

The growth has been remarkable — and it all began with welcoming people in and giving them the chance to have a go.

Even more inspiring is the story of one gentleman who first attended the club’s 2023 World Pickleball Day taster session.

Having discovered the sport through that event, he is now the head of a company specialising in setting up tournaments for amateur players.

It is a perfect example of why World Pickleball Day matters so much.

You truly have no idea who you are introducing to pickleball.

The person who walks through the door on 10 October could become:

• a lifelong player
• a volunteer
• a club organiser
• a coach
• a sponsor
• a tournament director
• a champion for the sport in their region

Or simply someone who finds friendship, fitness, and fun in a welcoming community.

That is why clubs everywhere are being encouraged to make World Pickleball Day 2026 a landmark international taster event, with sessions running on or around 10 October 2026.

A Global Call to Clubs and Countries

This 7th year presents a fantastic opportunity for countries around the world to get fully behind the concept of national and local taster sessions.

Whether you are a small community club with one court or a large national association, every session matters.

Every new player matters.

Every introduction to the sport could lead to something extraordinary.

The aim is not simply to fill courts for one day, but to plant the seeds for long-term growth in participation, volunteering, and competition.

Ideas to Make Your Taster Session Stand Out

Clubs looking to make their World Pickleball Day event memorable may wish to consider:

• Bring-a-friend invitations for existing members
• free beginner coaching sessions
• family and intergenerational play
• mini beginner tournaments
• longest rally challenges
• “beat the coach” fun courts
• tea, coffee and cake socials
• photo and selfie areas for social media sharing
• small welcome packs or certificates for first-time players

Local promotion can also make a huge difference through:

• community Facebook groups
• local press and radio
• council newsletters
• schools and colleges
• leisure centres
• retirement and community groups

The Invitation

As the sport continues to expand internationally, World Pickleball Day 2026 offers a perfect moment for clubs and countries to come together in a shared celebration of growth and community.

Let’s make the 7th year the biggest World Pickleball Day yet.

Open the doors.
Set out the paddles.
Welcome new faces.

Because the person you introduce to pickleball on 10.10.26 may help shape the future of the sport.