Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you and your partner share a passion for pickleball, you may want to celebrate the day on the court.
Whether you’re looking for something active, romantic, or competitive, these ideas will help you serve up some fun while celebrating your love for each other and the game.
1. Doubles and dinner
Start your evening with a friendly doubles match with another couple for some added fun. After working up an appetite on the court, head to your favorite restaurant for a post-game meal. Bonus points if you find a place with a well-known pickle-forward dish.
Pro tip: Wear matching pickleball outfits for extra Valentine’s Day flair.
2. A romantic night match
Many pickleball courts offer night play, creating the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening match. Play under the glow of the lights — and the stars — then celebrate with post-game desserts.
Pro tip: If playing on a private court, bring a portable speaker and a playlist of your favorite songs as a couple.
3. A pickleball picnic date
Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks, grab your paddles, and head to the courts for a casual game followed by a romantic picnic. Many parks with pickleball courts have beautiful grassy areas, making it easy to transition from dinking to dining.
Pickleball-friendly picnic ideas:
- Fresh fruit and protein bars for post-game refueling
- Heart-shaped sandwiches or charcuterie boards
- A thermos of homemade smoothies or infused water
4. DIY Valentine’s pickleball bracket
If you love a little healthy competition, why not organize a mini-tournament for your favorite couples? Set up a round-robin tournament, and the winner gets to choose where to go for dessert or drinks afterward.
To add to the fun, consider these playful prizes:
- The best-dressed couple gets a prize
- The loser has to buy post-match milkshakes
- If one team pickles another, the loser has to buy the winners a couples' gift
5. Upgrade your gear together
Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to upgrade your pickleball gear together. Head to your local racket sports store or browse online for matching paddles, new apparel, or game necessities.
Gift ideas for your pickleball-loving partner:
- A paddle in their favorite color
- A new court bag with all the essentials
- A coupon for a guaranteed doubles tournament entry
6. Stay-at-home pickleball movie night
If you’d rather stay in, turn your living room into a haven for a cozy and fun pickleball-themed movie night. Stream pro pickleball highlights, documentaries, or even stream TV shows featuring the game — here is a list to get you started.
7. Plan a pickleball getaway
If you and your partner are pickleball enthusiasts, consider planning a romantic weekend getaway to a pickleball resort or destination. Book a stay at a pickleball-friendly hotel, sign up for a doubles tournament, or find a local open play session to meet fellow players while enjoying a vacation together.
Top pickleball getaway ideas:
- A pickleball retreat with clinics and coaching sessions
- A trip to a warmer destination for year-round play
- A romantic bed and breakfast near courts with scenic views
