This year’s Adelaide International TennisFest, won’t be just be a sporting event; it aims to be a vibrant community gathering, bringing together over 3,000 participants in a grand showcase of talent, passion, and inclusivity.
Tennis SA’s TennisFest, renowned as South Australia’s largest tennis participation program, is expanding its horizons. The 2024 program is packed with 10 activations, seven centre court experiences, 28 coin toss experiences, and 11 events, all designed to engage and inspire players from all walks of life. From grassroots beginners to elite athletes, TennisFest offers something for everyone.
Debbie Sterrey, the CEO and General Manager of Tennis SA and Adelaide International, says that “TennisFest is about rewarding, recognising, and galvanising our community.” This year, the festival aims to ignite a widespread enthusiasm for tennis, encouraging players to either return to the sport or deepen their ongoing commitment. “With more than 3,000 participants expected to take part, congratulations must go to the Tennis SA team for drawing in such strong participation numbers across such a diverse program,” Sterrey adds.
The festival’s inclusive approach is evident in its wide array of events. The year-round programs will be showcased on Centre Court throughout the Adelaide International, highlighting the sport’s diversity. This includes activations for All Abilities, First Nations Come and Try, and the return of Pride Day for its second year. Additionally, special events will celebrate and honour the coaches, teachers, volunteers, and supporters who are the backbone of tennis in the state.
The Adelaide International tournament kicks off with Kids Day on January 8, 2024, promising a day of family-friendly fun at Pinky Flat. The Country Carnival, a regular fixture, returns to Kensington Gardens Lawn and East Torrens Kensington Gardens Tennis Clubs from January 4 to 8. Meanwhile, the Tennis SA State League will feature team representatives in a showcase on January 12, alongside a Super 10’s Experience for budding tennis stars.
Adding to the festivities, the Adelaide International Racquet and Strings Festival will feature some of South Australia’s most well-known musical acts.
New in 2024, the Adelaide International Kids Passport invites children to explore various locations at The Drive, collect stickers, enter draws for amazing prizes, and learn more about engaging with tennis.
With a waiting list and overwhelming demand for our Coaches Conference and Women’s Coach Connect events, interest in tennis in South Australia from within the grassroots community is an all-time high.
2024 Schedule of events
| Date | Event/Activation/Function |
| Thursday 4 January | Country Carnival (Day 1) |
| Friday 5 January | Country Carnival (Day 2) |
| Saturday 6 January | South Australian Players Club and Official Draw |
| Saturday 6 January | Country Carnival (Day 3) |
| Sunday 7 January | Rundle Mall Activation – Meet the Stars |
| Sunday 7 January | Vibe at the Drive – Adelaide International Launch Party |
| Sunday 7 January | Country Carnival (Day 4) |
| Monday 8 January | Kids Day |
| Monday 8 January | Women’s Coach Connect |
| Monday 8 January | Tennis SA – Thank You Event |
| Monday 8 January | Country Carnival (Day 5) |
| Monday 8 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 1) |
| Tuesday 9 January | Red Ball Challenge |
| Tuesday 9 January | Coaches Conference |
| Tuesday 9 January | Women Leaders in Tennis Networking Event |
| Tuesday 9 January | Teachers and Volunteers Thank You Event |
| Tuesday 9 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 2) |
| Tuesday 9 January | Kids Passport Activity (Day 1) |
| Wednesday 10 January | All Abilities Day |
| Wednesday 10 January | Ken McGregor Fund Charity Event |
| Wednesday 10 January | Memorial Drive Tennis Club Friends and Family Function |
| Wednesday 10 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 3) |
| Wednesday 10 January | Kids Passport Activity (Day 2) |
| Thursday 11 January | First Nations Come and Try |
| Thursday 11 January | Pride Day |
| Thursday 11 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 4) |
| Thursday 11 January | Kids Passport Activity (Day 3) |
| Friday 12 January | Hot Shots Tennis District State Final Day |
| Friday 12 January | Super 10’s Experience |
| Friday 12 January | State League Showcase |
| Friday 12 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 5) |
| Friday 12 January | Kids Passport Activity (Day 4) |
| Saturday 13 January | Volunteer Thank You Function |
| Saturday 13 January | Government Dignitaries and VIP Function |
| Saturday 13 January | Racquets and Strings Program (Day 6) |
More info can be found at adelaideinternational.com.au
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