The city of Greensboro may have lost its right to hold the Men’s ACC Basketball Tournament just about every year, but now it can be called “Tournament Town” once again because of a tournament that a lot of people are more excited about than they are ACC basketball.

On Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5, there will be a Pickleball Party and Tournament in downtown Greensboro.

Officials with Downtown Greensboro Inc. said this week they’re thrilled to announce Greensboro’s first ever Downtown Pickleball Party and Tournament.  Organizers promise the event will bring two solid days of pickleball excitement to the heart of Downtown Greensboro.

 Zack Matheny, president of Downtown Greensboro, Inc. is among those expressing their excitement.

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the country,” he said, “and we’re thrilled to bring the community together right here in Downtown Greensboro to enjoy America’s new favorite pastime.

Matheny added that, in addition to being a weekend of fun and competition, the new pickleball tournament and related festivities “will be a great way to further activate our city center.”

 On May 4, the day kicks off with a completely free Pickleball party that organizers say is designed to introduce newcomers to pickleball and also to get the community engaged.

“Attendees can grab their paddles, team up with friends, and enjoy a day of friendly matches and festivities,” an announcement for the tournament states.

 On the following day, Sunday, May 5, the competition gets serious with the pay-to-enter Pickleball Tournament.

Promotional materials for the event state, “Spectators and players alike are “invited to immerse themselves in the action, with cold local brews, delicious bites from food trucks, and the opportunity to cheer on their favorite teams. Additionally, attendees are encouraged to explore downtown, where various local businesses will be offering special pickleball-themed promotions and experiences.”