Pickleball Tournaments Across America: Where to Compete and Spectate

Updated October 2026. Dates and locations come from each organizer; always confirm on the official event site before you book travel.

As pickleball keeps growing across the United States, so does the tournament scene. Whether you want to test your game against tough competition or watch the best players in the world up close, there's an event for you. Here are the biggest tournaments in America, how to get into them, and how to find events near you.

1. USA Pickleball National Championships

Where: Barnes Tennis Center, San Diego, California
When: October 31 to November 8, 2026

Nationals is the official national championship run by USA Pickleball, the sport's governing body. Amateur players compete across age and skill divisions for national titles, and the pro events draw many of the game's top names. Amateur entry runs through USA Pickleball's Golden Ticket tournaments (more on those below), so if you want to play Nationals, start planning a season ahead. Spectators get days of high-level matches on dozens of courts.

2. US Open Pickleball Championships

Where: East Naples Community Park, Naples, Florida
When: April 17 to 24, 2027

The US Open is one of the largest pickleball events in the world. Players of almost every age and level compete across a huge range of divisions, alongside pro events. Off the courts, expect a festival feel with vendors, food and demo areas. It's a great first big tournament to play or watch.

3. Golden Ticket Tournaments

Where: Coast to coast
When: Throughout the year

Golden Ticket tournaments are USA Pickleball sanctioned events where top finishers can earn a guaranteed spot at Nationals. They're held in cities across the country, so there's usually one within driving distance. Check the current schedule on usapickleball.org.

4. PPA Tour Events

Where: Cities across the U.S., including Dallas, Mesa, Las Vegas and new stops like Chicago and Malibu
When: Year-round season

The PPA Tour is where the world's best pros battle for titles and prize money, and most stops also include amateur brackets so you can play the same courts the pros do. Watching a tour stop in person is the best way to see elite pickleball up close. See the full, up-to-date calendar at ppatour.com.

5. Local and Regional Tournaments

The fastest way to get tournament experience is a local event. Clubs, parks and facilities host tournaments almost every weekend, with divisions for every skill level. Search by city, date and skill rating on pickleball.com or the USA Pickleball tournament finder.

Tips for Your First Tournament

• Know your rating. Enter the division that matches your current skill level so your matches are competitive and fun.
• Check the paddle rules. Sanctioned events require approved paddles, so confirm your paddle is on the approved list before you play.
• Bring a backup. Pack a second paddle, extra balls, water and snacks. Tournament days run long.
• Arrive early. Warm up, find your courts and check in before your first match.
• Spectating? Bring a chair, sunscreen and a hat for outdoor venues, and check the schedule for championship matches.

Gear Up for Tournament Season

The right paddle makes a difference when the competition gets tough. Explore our American-made carbon fiber paddles, or design a custom paddle for you or your team and stand out on the court.