HOLYOKE — Pickleball players of all skill levels are invited to celebrate the grand opening of Pickleball Kingdom at the Holyoke Mall this weekend.
The event kicks off Saturday with a ribbon-cutting at 12:30 p.m., followed by free open play sessions for all ages.
Five sessions will be offered throughout the weekend, and players are encouraged to reserve spots through the Pickleball Kingdom app.
The new indoor facility, located at 50 Holyoke St., features courts equipped with TVs for live scoring and instant replays.
Pickleball Kingdom, a national franchise, says it aims to grow by offering top-tier facilities and building community, positioning itself as a leader in the sport’s rapid rise.
Beyond the weekend celebration, the opening reflects a sport that’s booming nationwide.
Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for three years, according to a 2024 report by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association and Pickleheads.
Participation jumped 51.8% from 2022 to 2023 and more than 223% over the past three years, the report said.
While many think it’s a sport for older adults, the largest group of players is ages 25 to 34, with 2.3 million participants, the report said.
Additionally, more than 1 million children under 18 started playing last year, suggesting pickleball’s wide appeal and bright future, the report added.
The business charges a membership beginning at $70 a month. Customers can also rent courts by the hour at between $15 and $30 an hour, according to Pickleball Kingdom. The business can be reached at 413-322-8171.
