Missoula Parks Hosts Community Pickleball Social to Build Connections Through Recreation

MISSOULA — Missoula Parks & Recreation is hosting a community pickleball social Friday evening, bringing players of all skill levels together at Fort Missoula Regional Park for an evening of recreational play designed to build connections across the community.

The September Pickleball Social runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and encourages participants to “wear their favorite team gear” while competing in round-robin format matches. Players can register individually or in groups, with courts assigned randomly based on experience level.

“All skill levels are welcome,” according to the city’s event announcement, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the programming that aims to connect new players with experienced ones through casual competition.

The event reflects Missoula Parks & Recreation’s broader community-building approach to recreational programming. Players will be placed on courts at random based on experience, “making it a great way to meet new people and enjoy the game in a relaxed, social setting,” the announcement states.

Beyond just pickleball, the evening includes local food truck options, music, and raffle prizes, creating what organizers describe as “the perfect way to kick off the fall season with friendly competition, camaraderie and community.”

The social format represents a growing trend in municipal recreation programming, where traditional sports are paired with community elements to encourage broader participation and social connection.

Registration remains open through the start of the event, with pre-registered participants receiving additional event details on September 17. Day-of registrants arriving after 4 p.m. must show their emailed or printed receipt upon arrival.

The Parks & Recreation Department’s emphasis on welcoming all skill levels aligns with the city’s broader recreational programming philosophy of creating accessible entry points for community engagement through sports and activities.

“Whether you’re playing or just cheering on your team, it’s the perfect way to kick off the fall season with friendly competition, camaraderie and community,” the announcement concludes, highlighting the social aspects that distinguish this event from typical recreational league play.