Those seeking entertainment in Wrightsville Beach Park will soon be able to play gaga ball and pickleball in addition to the activities already offered.
The Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee was able to purchase equipment for the two games after receiving funding from the Wrightsville Beach Foundation. The foundation’s donation also covers detachable youth basketball nets to hang below the permanent hoops.
The gaga ball pit, a permanent structure 20 to 25 feet across and 30 inches tall, will be set up in the grassy area between the playground and the tennis courts. Two pickleball courts will be incorporated into each of the existing tennis courts.
Parks and recreation program supervisor Katie Ryan said the pickleball nets have arrived and paddles and balls have been ordered. The gaga ball facility should be constructed within the next few months, she added.
During the committee’s March 2 meeting, members discussed holding a family day in the park in early May to showcase the new equipment. Ryan said while many of the specifics still need to be worked out, she is finalizing plans to have several of her fitness instructors at the event supervising kids’ basketball games, leading line dancing classes and teaching a pickleball workshop. She said she also hopes to recruit a few local restaurant vendors to sell food on site.
Ryan also updated the committee on the 2015 Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market. Sixteen merchants are confirmed, she said. She and other committee members were especially excited about a new vendor, a Frenchwoman who sells homemade chocolates in flavors like honey and lavender.
“[She] brought samples to the office,” Ryan said. “I’m telling you, I’ve never tasted chocolate like this.”
The first day of the farmers’ market is May 18.
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