10 Holiday Events That Will Pack Your Pickleball Facility

The holiday season is make-or-break for pickleball facilities. While some clubs see empty courts as members travel, smart operators turn November through January into their busiest, most profitable months.

Holiday events aren't just about filling courts. They're about creating traditions that players look forward to all year.

Here are 10 proven events that will pack your facility and build community loyalty.

1. Turkey Trot Tournament (Thanksgiving Week)

The week before Thanksgiving is perfect for a fun tournament with holiday flair.

Why it works:

• Players want activity before the big meal
• Families visiting from out of town often play
• Potluck builds community beyond the court
• Low-pressure competition suits the festive mood

Prize ideas: Frozen turkeys, pie gift cards, thanksgiving-themed medals

2. Black Friday Paddle Demo Day

Partner with paddle manufacturers for the biggest shopping day of the year.

1. 1Invite 3-4 paddle brands to set up demo stations
2. 2Offer special Black Friday pricing on purchases
3. 3Run skills stations where players test paddles
4. 4Include light refreshments and music

Revenue opportunity: Negotiate commission on paddle sales or charge brands a booth fee.

3. Giving Tuesday Charity Tournament

The Tuesday after Thanksgiving is all about giving back.

• Format: Regular tournament where entry fees go to local charity
• Bonus: Match donations up to a certain amount
• Community impact: Invite the charity to speak or participate

4. Holiday Lights Mixer (December)

Transform your facility into a winter wonderland for an evening social event.

• Decorate courts with string lights
• Play holiday music
• Serve hot cocoa and festive treats
• Run casual round robin or social mixer format
• Ugly sweater contest with prizes

5. 12 Days of Pickleball Challenge

Create a 12-day engagement program leading up to Christmas.

Sample challenges:

• Day 1: Play with someone new
• Day 2: Hit 50 dinks in a row
• Day 3: Bring a friend who's never played
• Day 4: Post a court selfie
• ...and so on

This drives daily visits and social media engagement.

6. New Year's Eve Countdown Tournament

Ring in the new year on the court with a special late-night event.

1. 1Start tournament at 8 PM
2. 2Finals scheduled to end just before midnight
3. 3Champagne toast at midnight
4. 4Continue open play into the new year

7. Resolution League (January)

Capitalize on New Year's fitness resolutions with a beginner-friendly league.

• Target: People who resolved to exercise more
• Format: 6-week intro league for newer players
• Include: Free beginner clinic before league starts
• Pricing: Discounted rate to reduce commitment barrier

8. Couples Mixer (Valentine's Season)

February brings Valentine's Day - perfect for doubles formats.

• Couples tournament (romantic partners)
• "Blind date" mixer (random partner assignment)
• Anti-Valentine's singles event

• Include rose for each participant
• Chocolate prizes
• Special couples photo booth area

9. Polar Plunge Challenge (For Indoor Facilities)

If you're in a cold climate with indoor courts, lean into it.

• "Escape the cold" marketing
• Hot drinks and warm atmosphere
• Challenge: Play X games, earn a "Polar Plunge Survivor" shirt

10. Holiday Party Rentals

Don't forget corporate and private events.

Market your facility for:

• Company holiday parties
• Family reunion activities
• Friend group gatherings
• Youth group events

Making Events Profitable

Pricing Strategy

• Cover your costs plus margin
• Include food/drinks in ticket price (feels more premium)
• Offer early bird discounts
• Create VIP tiers with extra perks

Promotion Timeline

1. 1Announce events 4-6 weeks in advance
2. 2Open registration 3-4 weeks out
3. 3Send reminders at 2 weeks, 1 week, and 2 days
4. 4Post event photos same day for social proof

The Holiday Advantage

Start planning now. The facilities that win the holidays win the year.