Louisville Expands Pickleball Courts: The sport of pickleball has seen a significant rise in popularity across the United States in recent years, with USA Pickleball reporting a national count of 50,000 players as of last year. Reflecting this trend, Downtown Louisville is set to expand its pickleball offerings during the upcoming Pickleball Street Fest this weekend.
Organizers have announced plans to install 12 new pickleball courts along West Jefferson Street between 4th and 5th Streets, as well as in the plaza on 4th Street. Among these courts, nine will host tournaments while three will be available for open play. This expansion aims to accommodate all the competitive events and recreational play, catering to a growing interest in the sport.
For those curious about pickleball but new to the game, opportunities abound at the festival. “Everybody’s heard about pickleball. Come on out, try it out,” encourages a spokesperson. Equipment such as paddles will be provided, along with instructional sessions to introduce newcomers to the game.
Beyond the courts, the festival promises a vibrant atmosphere with a marketplace, food trucks, and local breweries adding to the festivities. The all-day event is scheduled to kick off this Sunday, starting at 8 a.m. and continuing until 6 p.m., offering a day filled with activities for all the players and spectators.