Taco Bell’s Pickleball Fun In Cantinas: Taco Bell is taking its innovative spirit to San Diego with “The Cantinas,” a weekend event on August 17 and 18 that puts pickleball in the spotlight. As part of its “Live Más” philosophy, Taco Bell is inviting attendees aged 21 and over to partake in a weekend of sun-soaked, senior-inspired recreation, featuring an array of pickleball matches among other activities.
Pickleball Takes Center Stage
The Cantinas will showcase pickleball as a key attraction, offering participants the chance to engage in spirited games on well-maintained courts. Early-morning pickleball sessions will be a highlight, providing an energetic start to each day of the event. This inclusion shows Taco Bell’s commitment to blending traditional fun with a modern twist.
“There’s a common misconception that retirement unlocks the life you’ve been waiting for. And while that may be true for some, we don’t think you should have to wait until 55 to live the life you’re craving,” U.S. Chief Marketing Officer of Taco Bell Taylor Montgomery said in a press release. “The Cantinas early retirement community, just like our brand, represents a place where all generations can come together, regardless of age, to Live their Mas however they want.”
Event Details and Access
The Cantinas event offers both overnight passes and day passes for Taco Bell’s rewards program members. Attendees can look forward to enjoying pickleball games alongside other activities like golf and aerobics, all while immersing themselves in a unique, senior-inspired atmosphere.
Impact on the Pickleball Community
Taco Bell’s emphasis on pickleball reflects a broader trend of integrating popular sports into diverse event formats. By featuring pickleball prominently, The Cantinas aims to appeal to both enthusiasts and newcomers, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity across different age groups.
Christy Van Der Westhuizen, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Legend Senior Living, shared with Senior Housing News that she views The Cantinas as a positive development for the senior living industry, as it helps people envision themselves living as retirees.
“Do you want a laid-back lifestyle, or do you want something booming and exciting? It also gives people a ‘why wait’ mentality,” she told Senior Housing News. “I think it taps into a cool factor, but doing it in a tongue-in-cheek way.”
Looking Beyond the Event
Although The Cantinas is not set in a traditional senior housing community, it represents a playful approach to blending recreational activities with lifestyle themes. The event’s focus on pickleball aligns with Taco Bell’s history of innovative marketing and provides a fresh perspective on how sports can be celebrated in unique settings.