In My Mahjong Era: My Favorite Way to Unplug, Connect & Have Fun

A few years ago, I had my very first Mahjong lesson. At the time, it was just one of those fun “let’s try something new” moments with friends, and honestly, I didn’t think much about it afterward.

Fast forward to a more recent trip to Palm Beach, where Mahjong popped back into my life. I went with a group of girlfriends, and we ended up playing game after game all weekend long. That’s when I realized just how much I loved it. It’s fun, it’s challenging, and there’s something about gathering everyone around the table that makes it extra special.

What I love about Mahjong is that it’s so much more than a game. It’s an excuse to slow down, hang out with friends, and share stories between turns. You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it — half the fun is figuring it out as you go and cheering each other on when someone finally calls “Mahjong!”

Since that Palm Beach trip, I’ve been carving out time to play again, and it’s quickly become a hobby I look forward to. Whether it’s a quiet weeknight game or a Saturday afternoon with snacks and wine, Mahjong feels like the perfect mix of connection and strategy.

I recently got to share my love for Mahjong with the whole Loverly Grey team, and it was such a fun night. We had a cozy evening in, and Mahjong Molly came into town to teach us how to play. To make it even more special, The Mahjong Line sent over the cutest goodies for everyone. Sharing something I’ve grown to love with my team made it even more meaningful — and now I think we might all be hooked!

The Extra Benefits of Mahjong

One of the things I’ve loved about picking up Mahjong again is all the unexpected benefits that come with it. Chris and I have made a habit of putting our phones completely away in the evenings, and Mahjong has been the perfect way to do that. Sitting around the table gives you a chance to unplug, be fully present, and really enjoy the people you’re with. We’ve even started teaching Collins and Hazel how to play, which has been such a fun way to spend time together as a family.

You all know I love a good excuse to host, and Mahjong is perfect for that. I love setting up the table with our pretty Mahjong set, pouring a glass of wine or a fun mocktail, and inviting friends over. It’s such a fun activity for both a weeknight or a weekend gathering.

It also keeps your mind engaged in a really fun way. There’s strategy involved, but it never feels overwhelming — just enough of a challenge to keep things interesting. And honestly, there’s something so simple and joyful about gathering around a game that makes the whole experience feel special every single time.

If You’re New to Mahjong: Where to Begin

If you’re curious about trying Mahjong but aren’t sure where to start, it’s actually much easier than it looks. Here are a few tips:

  • Order a set you love – If you’re just starting out, you don’t have to invest in an expensive set right away. Amazon has some great starter options, and the tiles and racks come in all different colors and styles, so you can pick one that feels like you.
  • Take a class – As Mahjong continues to grow in popularity, there are teachers popping up all over the country! Find a list of instructors from The Mahjong Line near you. Learning in person is such a fun way to get started, and you’ll usually make a few new friends along the way.
  • Play online – If you want to practice before committing to a set or hosting a game night, I Love Mahj is a great site where you can play online and learn the rules as you go.

If you’ve ever thought about trying Mahjong, I say go for it. It’s one of those hobbies that feels both classic and fresh every time you sit down to play. And the best part? You don’t have to know everything before you start. Just dive in, have fun, and see where it takes you — who knows, you might find yourself falling in love with it just like I did.