Urban Pickleball Returns for an Expanded Six-Week Summer Series
The Gaslamp Quarter Association (GQA) is serving up another season of one of downtown San Diego’s most unique summer experiences as Urban Pickleball returns to the Gaslamp Quarter every Thursday from July 30 from 4 p.m. through sunset at Fifth Avenue between Market and K Street in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Back by popular demand, the six-week series transforms five blocks of Fifth Avenue into San Diego’s only urban pickleball venue, creating a vibrant open-air destination where sports, entertainment and community come together in the heart of downtown.
This year’s event will be bigger than ever, expanding to 13 pickleball courts, including three new courts added to meet growing demand. Players of all skill levels are invited to participate in the ladder-style open play format while enjoying live music from DJ Spitz, interactive games, local vendors, and exclusive offers from Gaslamp businesses.
“Urban Pickleball has quickly become one of the most exciting summer activations in downtown San Diego,” said Michael Trimble, executive director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association. “We’re thrilled to bring the series back with more courts, new experiences, and even more opportunities for people to enjoy everything the Gaslamp Quarter has to offer.”
In addition to on-street play, Urban Pickleball 2026 introduces several new features designed to enhance the player and spectator experience. The Sports Market will showcase local vendors offering athletic apparel, pickleball gear, wellness products, healthy snacks, lifestyle brands, giveaways, and more.
Also new this year, the Zero-Proof Garden will provide a dedicated social lounge featuring non-alcoholic beverages, wellness drinks, hydration stations, kombucha offerings, and Corona’s non-alcoholic beer. The space offers players and spectators a place to recharge between matches while remaining part of the event’s energetic atmosphere.
Live DJs will provide courtside entertainment throughout the series, creating an energetic atmosphere for players and spectators alike. Attendees can also participate in a Spin-to-Win prize wheel featuring giveaways from sponsors and local businesses, as well as receive a special wristband that unlocks exclusive Paddle Hour food and drink specials at participating Gaslamp restaurants and bars.
Registration is now open. For $45, participants receive guaranteed court access, an official Gaslamp Urban Pickleball T-shirt, access to the Game Day Sports Market, and exclusive Paddle Hour discounts throughout the series.
Urban Pickleball continues to support the Gaslamp Quarter Association’s mission of creating dynamic experiences that attract visitors, support local businesses, and showcase downtown San Diego as a premier destination for entertainment and community engagement.
For more information or to register, visit www.gaslamp.org.
Category: Community, Events, Health & Fitness, Local News, Neighborhoods, Recreation, Sports
