The Oahu Pickleball Association is set to host Hawaii’s largest pickleball event yet: the Aloha Pickleball Games and Festival. Scheduled from November 1 to November 3 at the Hawaii Convention Center, this inaugural event is expected to attract hundreds of players from all skill levels and ages, as well as enthusiastic spectators. The festival aims to bring together the local and visiting pickleball community for a weekend of competitive tournaments, fun-filled activities, and social engagement.
More than just a tournament, the Aloha Pickleball Games and Festival will feature a range of activities for players and fans alike, including merchandise vendors and interactive events. Designed to accommodate both serious competitors and casual players, the festival promises an inclusive environment where families and friends can come together to enjoy the sport. For those who simply want to support the players, there will be plenty of action to watch and experiences to enjoy on-site.
The Hawaii Convention Center has gone all out for this event, making a significant investment in 45 new pickleball courts, with 15 dedicated to the festival. According to Teri Orton, the General Manager of the Hawaii Convention Center, the venue’s new state-of-the-art courts mimic outdoor championship conditions, providing an authentic playing experience for competitors. This marks a new chapter in the Center’s commitment to sports programming, as pickleball has surged in popularity, growing by 60% over the past five years.
The festival is hosted by California-based Pickleball Management Group with support from local pickleball enthusiasts, ensuring that both local and traveling participants feel welcome. Event organizer Scott Winters highlighted the festival’s unique combination of competitive play and family-friendly activities, emphasizing that the Hawaii Convention Center aims to be a top pickleball destination worldwide. He expressed excitement for the inaugural event and the opportunity to showcase the new courts in action.
Besides pickleball, the Hawaii Convention Center offers facilities for a variety of sports, including volleyball, badminton, basketball, and futsal. This versatility positions the center as a key sports hub in Hawaii, capable of supporting events that attract diverse groups. As the Aloha Pickleball Games and Festival kicks off, it sets the stage for future events that could further establish Hawaii as a premier sports tourism destination.