If you love pickleball or have always wanted to try to play, now is your chance, because Metro Vancouver’s new Fairgrounds Racket Club officially opens its doors this week.

With pickleball gaining popularity across the country (up to 57 per cent more popular since 2022), Fairgrounds strives to create greater inclusivity within the sport. The free-to-join public racket club is the fastest-growing club of its kind in Canada, making it an exciting place to test out your skills on the court.

“No stuffy rules, no awkward gatekeeping, just great courts, real community, and room to show up exactly as you are,” says Fairgrounds. Its website adds that there are no dress codes — simply show up ready to play or learn something new!

Free pickleball during opening weekend

The 60,000-square-foot North Vancouver location will consist of 15 pickleball courts, warm-up zones and a hitting wall, a Pro Shop, and multiple social lounges and community spaces where players can connect with friends old and new.

In 2026, Fairgrounds will launch food vendors as well as child-friendly camps, expanded programming, and exciting partnerships like Nike Sports Camp Canada.

To celebrate the launch of Fairgrounds’ first West Coast location at Capilano Mall in North Vancouver, Fairgrounds is offering free play and programming during opening weekend, from Friday, Dec. 12 to Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Whether you’re a first-timer or a pickleball pro, this is a great chance to play on the brand-new courts.

The opening weekend offer is one free hour of court time, which you can reserve online. There will also be complimentary coach-led clinics, kids’ sessions, and community socials.

Extras to check out include Myodetox (stretching and massage), Formula Fig (express mini facials), and complimentary treats from Greenhouse Juice, Lee’s Donuts, Barbet, and more.

Can’t make it this weekend? You can still drop in as a Free Member for coach-led clinics, open play, lessons, and socials through Dec. 21, 2025. Oh, and kids play for free for the entire month of December!

How much are memberships?

If you’re already eyeing a membership, now is a great time to purchase one and take advantage of a number of discounts. This includes the limited-edition 12-month founding membership ($1,399 per person), which includes unlimited play, 20 per cent off Pro Shop, and early access to events.

Six-month passes range from $39 per month (four sessions per month) to $117 per month (unlimited play). If you’d rather go one month at a time, memberships cost $45 per month or $138 per month, respectively.

Mark your calendars for this weekend, and stay tuned for future developments to come.

Fairgrounds Racket Club, North Vancouver

When: Opens Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, free pickleball from Dec. 12 to Dec. 14, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 935 Marine Dr., North Vancouver
Cost: Free play on opening weekend, or starting at $39 per month

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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