Mahjong is a game that originated in 19th century China and is quickly gaining popularity in the United States. You may have heard your friends talk about Mahjong meet-ups or bams, dots, and cracks, and wondered, “What is that?” This entertaining game is a great way to learn something new while having fun with friends. Whether you want beginner lessons or are interested in joining a regular Mahjong group, there are so many opportunities to play Mahjong in Birmingham!
Why Play Mahjong?
“I love how this game brings people together! It’s fantastic to see a group of moms sitting down, laughing, and having fun while sharpening our brains after a day filled with diaper duty and ‘because I said so’s,'” remarks McCauley Adams with All About Mahj. “My favorite part? Watching my 9-year-old daughter and her friends playing a game without electronics-and, even better, they want to play with their moms!”
Mahjong is also a family affair for Rachel Mazer with The Marvelous Mrs. Mazer. When asked why she plays Mahjong, she responds, “I love this game because it has brought women together for decades. I’m a third generation Mahjong player, and I cherish my grandmother’s tiles from the 1950’s. There is a saying in Hebrew, “L’dor V’dor,” which means from one generation to the next. That is what Mahjong means to me and my family.”
What Are the Basics of Mahjong?
There are several different types of Mahjong with different rules. American Mahjong is typically played with four players and a set of 152 tiles. The winner is the first player that creates a winning Mahjong hand, which contains 14 tiles of certain sequences and patterns. Games last 45 minutes to an hour for beginners, and around 30 minutes for experienced players. There are a lot of rules to remember, but thankfully, there are a few Mahjong pros in the Birmingham area who can help you learn the difference between a pung, kong, and quint.
What Do I Need to Play Mahjong?
For a game of Mahjong, you will need a card table and a set of Mahjong tiles. Tiles come in a wide variety of styles and colors, as well as a wide range of prices. A Mahjong mat is optional, but it can protect your table, decrease noise from tiles, help keep your tiles in place, and add fun flair to your table. Some mats also have helpful rule reminders. Search online to find tiles and a mat that match your style and budget.
If you are ready to go all in, you can find a wide assortment of luxury tiles and mats on websites like Oh My Mahjong or The Mahjong Line. For those who prefer something simpler, this tile set and mat are cute and more affordable. If you are not ready for that level of commitment, rent everything you need from All About Mahjong or Elizabeth Smith Paper Designs.
How Do I Learn to Play Mahjong?
To learn all of the details, most people take a Mahjong 101 class before actually playing with friends. Instructors may teach big groups at a church or country club, or small groups in the comfort of your home. Some instructors also host Mahjong tournaments or events for players who enjoy the game and want to keep playing.
There are a few organizations that train Mahjong instructors to be sure the game rules remain consistent. If you are excited to learn this new game, grab a few friends and contact one of these instructors to schedule your first lesson.
You can even learn from home with online teachers like Mahjong Molly, but getting together with friends is really what makes this game so special and fun.
Where Can I Play Mahjong?
Once you have an idea of how to play Mahjong, keep playing to improve your skills! You can invite friends over for games at your own home, or meet someone new at one of these Mahjong get-togethers.
All About Mahj
All About Mahj hosts Majhong Guided Play events to keep your skills fresh. Anyone who has had a beginner lesson can attend, and an instructor will be present to answer any questions.
Where: Locations vary. Recent venues include Rolls Bakery and B. Happy in Vestavia Hills
When: Dates and time vary- see their website for the most up to date information
Bird Bam Besties
Bird Bam Besties hosts Mahjong open and guided play at Corbeau Wine Bar in Homewood and in Trussville. They also host the 205 Mahjong Club, which is a seasonal Mahjong club with six nights of play in Homewood. Registration is required for club play.
Where: Corbeau Wine Bar in Homewood and Trussville
When: Dates and time vary- see their Facebook page and Instagram for schedules and registration links.
Birmingham Jewish Community Center
The Birmingham Jewish Community Center hosts a Mahjong group each week. You do not have to be a member to attend.
Where: 3960 Montclair Road, Birmingham
When: Thursdays, 11:00AM- 2:30 PM.
Board in Birmingham
For a fee, you can enjoy a Mahjong events by Board in Birmingham that includes a glass of wine or charcuterie cup.
Where: 5426 Hwy 280, Suite 6, Birmingham
When: Dates and times vary- see their website for the most up to date information.
Dot Crack Bham
Dot Crack Bham is a Mahjong League hosted by The Marvelous Mrs. Mazer that holds Mahjong events at Westhouse in Homewood. All skill levels are welcome, but you must have experience to play in the league.
Where: 143 Citation Court, Homewood
When: Dates and times vary- see their website for the most up to date information.
House of Mahj
Michelle Womack, the certified instructor behind House of Mahj, offers lessons, events, and open play. She will also come to your house to help you host your own Mahjong lessons.
Where: Based in Trussville; Locations vary.
When: Dates and times vary- see their Facebook page and Instagram for the most up to date information.
Little Professor Bookshop
This local bookstore periodically hosts Mahjong classes, workshops, and free play evenings. So, no matter your skill level, they have something for you! Instructor Kate Heyer of Kate Dot Bham teaches the classes, and you must register to attend.
Where: 2738 18th St S, Homewood
When: Dates and times vary- see their website for the most up to date information.
O’Neal Library
The O’Neal Library hosts a weekly Mahjong meet up. Beginners should register online for the first Monday of the month, when Mahjong lessons are taught. Registration is not required for other Mahjong events.
Where: 50 Oak Street, Mountain Brook
When: Mondays, 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM
Riverchase United Methodist Church
Riverchase UMC holds free Mahjong lessons on the 1st Wednesday of the month from 6-8pm and the 1st Thursday of the month from 1-3pm. Register on their event website to attend.
Where: 1953 Old Montgomery Hwy, Birmingham
When: Thursdays, 1:00- 2:00 PM
Vestavia Civic Center
Civic Center Members can enjoy open play here, and day passes can be purchased by those who aren’t members.
Where: 1090 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia
When: Wednesdays from 9am-12pm
Don’t be afraid to invite a few friends over and host a game of your own! Like any game, the real goal is to have fun, make memories with old friends, and meet a few new friends along the way.
