Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the National Mall of Pickleball?

National Mall of Pickleball is back for a third year, bringing America’s fastest growing sport back to the National Mall, highlighting the true and inherent aspects of the game – inclusivity and accessibility – and the role pickleball serves in creating community. The National Mall of Pickleball is a free event – and is open to all. We look forward to having you join us again for this monumental occasion! Please check out our event page to learn more about the event: https://nationalmall.org/pickleball. 

Stay tuned for additional details about programming this summer!

2. When is the National Mall of Pickleball happening? 

The 3-day event is taking place Friday, September 19 – Sunday, September 21.

3. Where is the National Mall of Pickleball happening?

The temporary pickleball courts will be constructed at 12th Street on the National Mall (adjacent to the Smithsonian Metro)

4. I’ve heard a lot about the pickleball craze, but I don’t know how to play / I don’t have my own paddle. Can I still participate? 

That’s no problem! Pickleball is the most accessible, friendly and fastest-growing multi-generational sport in the U.S., and the National Mall of Pickleball is meant to celebrate that! You can visit the official USA Pickleball Website to learn the rules of the game or find one of our Ambassadors on-site for tips. We will also have plenty of pickleball paddles and balls available at our equipment tent that we are happy to lend to participants. 

5. How much does it cost? 

The National Mall of Pickleball is a free event for the public and made possible through the generosity of Humana, the Humana Foundation and the Trust for the National Mall.


6. How can I stay up-to-date on the National Mall of Pickleball?

7. Is the National Mall of Pickleball ADA-accessible? 

Yes, the pickleball courts and all elements of the National Mall of Pickleball are ADA compliant.  

Pickleball is the most accessible, friendly and fastest-growing multi- generational sport, and we designed the court layout and programming to enable all people of all accessibilities the opportunity to experience the amazing game of pickleball.  

8. I’m not interested in playing pickleball, but I’d like to check out the event. Do I have to register?

Nope! No advance registration is required but with three days of action-packed programming, make sure to mark your calendar and see what the National Mall of Pickleball is all about.

And, if you change your mind and want to get in on some healthy competition – whether you’ve played before or not – we’ll be happy to add you to the walk-on rotation and equip you with a paddle for the session. Just be sure to wear sneakers and activewear! 

9. Why are Humana and The Trust for the National Mall partners?

To preserve a vibrant space where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to connect, be active and live their healthiest lives, The Trust for the National Mall, Humana and The Humana Foundation are partnering to bring awareness to its mission and its importance to American democracy. 

As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026, it is not only critical—but imperative—to ensure that the National Mall thrives and endures as a powerful platform of unity and innovation.

As pickleball has its American moment, the National Mall of Pickleball gives all of us occasion to rediscover the National Mall and recommit ourselves to ensuring its preservation and vibrancy for many years to come.

Every year, the National Mall hosts more than 36 million visits – more than the top five US National Parks combined, yet it collects no entrance fees. The Trust for the National Mall is dedicated to restoring, enriching and preserving the National Mall. Through private donations, special projects and programs, the Trust helps elevate the National Mall, its history and its purpose as a symbol of our nation’s ideals and civic purpose. Events like the National Mall of Pickleball are examples of generous donations and innovative ideas from partners like Humana. To learn more about the National Mall and how you can help preserve the iconic space for future generations, you can visit: https://nationalmall.org/support