Mahjong–the Pickleball of the Mind

Mahjong is quickly becoming a popular social game! Gathering family or friends to play this strategic game of decorative tiles can be a great way to build community and connection. Historically an East Asian gaming and cultural tradition originating in China in the mid-1800s, interest has recently spread to the West. Benefits of playing include improved cognition, memory, decision-making, and mood. What is Mahjong all about?! 

Mahjong supplies 

Check out necessary Tools of the Game.

Mahjong Game Sets: 

Paisley Carrying Bag

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Elegant Floral Quilted Carrying Bag

Solid Black, Blue or Red Bag

Black or Pearl Gray Bag with Engraved Tiles

Silver Aluminum Hard Case

Blue & Pink Canvas Bag

Nylon Case with Color Coordinated Tiles

Non-slip play mat

Mahjong parties

Playing Mahjong as a gathering of friends is a great way to plan regular get togethers. Some groups choose to hire local instructors to teach them the tricks of the trade. Present a cohesive festive party theme with fun feasible decorations. 

Cocktail Napkins

Party Banner and Cupcake Toppers

Centerpieces

Photography Backdrop

Tablecloth

Play can be done in a round-robin format where each player plays everyone else in a group. After each round, players switch spots to play new opponents.  Overall scores from all rounds are tallied.  Play format can also be in teams or even done as timed rounds to create face-paced exciting play. Prizes and party favors can be used to build energy and excitement. 

Mahjong rules 

A Mahjong game set consists of three suits of tiles (dots, characters and bamboo).  These are better known as Dot, Crak and Bam. Each suit contains four sets of tiles numbered 1 through 9. Each suit has a matching Dragon (white, red or green).  There are also two neutral tiles (four wind and eight flowers). A card with a new version each year is released by the National Maj Jongg League (NMJL). Mahjong combines skill and luck as players try to match the code of numbers and letters on the card with the tiles on their rack. A player wins by forming a hand of four sets of three, plus a pair of identical tiles. Here are all of the basics to learn the game or teach a friend. Most game sets come with clear instructions. Here is another great resource.

Mahjong accessories 

Gift your Mahjong obsessed loved ones any of the following themed items to keep the Mahjong magic energized!  These items could be used in a gift basket for the host or for party prizes for the winner as well. 

Kitchen Towels

Happiness is Playing Mahjong with the Girls Shirt

Cracks Dots Bams Shirt 

Wine Glass Set

Wine Glass Charms

40oz Tumbler

Wooden Box Sign

Mahjong party snacks & drinks

Keep your party guests satisfied with some delicious appetizers and drinks.  This Roasted Garlic Hummus is sure to be a crowd pleaser.  Perhaps present guests with the symphony of flavors found in the Yard House Edamame.  Try your hand at creating some unique Asian inspired cocktails to delight your friends while playing the amazing and captivating Mahjong. 

Embrace and enjoy the world of Mahjong and stay active and connected while creating memories with family and friends!  Don’t let the Mahjong craze pass you by without giving it a try! Maybe check it out online first for free , although you’ll probably quickly want to entice others to join in the fun!

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