MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Manahawkin pickleball players, and anyone curious about trying the fast-growing sport, will be able to head to Picklr on Aug. 8 for a free National Pickleball Day event.
Picklr announced that its clubs nationwide, including the Manahawkin location, will open to the public from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Courtside Bash 2026. The drop-in event will include free open play, music and what the company described as community fun, with no membership required.
According to the announcement, paddle-up rotations will run throughout the day so guests can walk in, place a paddle on the rack and join the next available game. Coaches also will lead Pickleball 101 sessions during the afternoon for first-time players learning the basics. Experienced players will be able to use challenge courts, and Picklr pros will be available during the event to join games and connect with players.
"On National Pickleball Day, we want every player in America - from club regulars to people who've never picked up a paddle - to feel like they belong on a court," said Kathryn Bullough, Chief Marketing Officer of Picklr. "Courtside Bash '26 is how we're making that happen: open courts, no barriers, with every club in the country throwing the same party on the same day. Whether you've played for years or have never picked up a paddle, we look forward to welcoming you to a Picklr court on August 8."
National Pickleball Day marks the founding of the sport on Bainbridge Island, Washington, on Aug. 8, 1965, according to the announcement. Picklr said pickleball now has more than 50 million players worldwide.
The event is free to enter and designed as a drop-in program. New players and non-members must sign a liability waiver before their first game, according to the announcement. Guests can complete the waiver in advance at thepicklr.com/courtside-bash, while players who already have a waiver on file do not need to do so again. Demo paddles also will be available at most clubs for players who do not have their own equipment.
After the event, people who want to continue playing can check membership offers Picklr said it will make available through the weekend. The company said deals include "Buy 2 months, get 1 free" and 10 percent off Annual Unlimited Memberships, with online offers beginning Friday, Aug. 7.
Picklr is located at 205 NJ-72 West, Manahawkin.
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