Reviewed by: Grace Garrison
Where to learn + play mahjong in Birmingham: Groups, lessons, instructors
Reading time: 4 minutes
This popular Chinese game may have been invented in the 1800s, but it’s certainly having its moment in the U.S. today.
Mahjong, a tile game in which players draw 13 tiles and take turns drawing and discarding tiles to create four sets of three and a pair, is taking the Western world by storm, thanks in part to the COVID-19 lockdowns.
In Birmingham, there is plenty of mahjong to be played — there are groups who play, businesses that hold mahjong events and even teachers dedicated to teaching folks the game.
Here is where to get started with mahjong in the Magic City.
Magic City Mahj
These classes, led by instructor Robyn Henderson, are great for both beginners and more experienced mahjong players who want to further hone their skills.
Sessions fill up quickly, so keep an eye on Magic City Mahj’s social media profiles to learn about how to sign up.
- Facebook | Instagram | Email
- When: Varies — see social profiles or email for more details
- Where: Hoover + Birmingham area
- Cost: $35
O’Neal Library
This library located in Mountain Brook hosts weekly mahjong meetups, with the first of the month always devoted to lessons for beginners. Go solo or bring a group of friends for a fun opportunity to meet other players and make lasting memories.
Heads up: The monthly lessons on the first Monday are in high demand and require pre-registration. See the event page for details.
- Event details
- When: Every Monday at 10AM
- Where: O’Neal Library — 50 Oak Street, Mountain Brook
- Cost: FREE
Bird Bam Besties
The Bird Bam Besties are “two best friends, moms and lovers of a good time who are completely obsessed with the game of mahjong!” This duo hosts frequent events, including classes, guided play, private parties and corporate events. Stay tuned to their social media profiles to catch upcoming events!
- Instagram | Facebook
- When: Varies — see social profiles or email for more details
- Where: Homewood + Birmingham area
- Cost: Varies
205 Mahjong Club
Also from the Bird Bam Besties, their new 205 Mahjong Club was recently announced for January-March, membership of which will include prescheduled open-play sessions in Homewood, club swag, 15% off other events and more.
Heads up: This club is intended for more experienced players — sessions will NOT be guided, but small rule clarifications are okay. Ages 18+ only.
- Register
- When: Upcoming session Monday, Jan. 12 through Monday, March 16
- Where: Corbeau Wine Bar at The Edge — 817 Green Springs Hwy Suite 105, Homewood
- Cost: $150 + fees/processing ($20 for a sub membership)
House of Mahj
Based in Trussville, House of Mahj offers 101 and 102 lessons, a masters class, guided play events, open play events and a monthly mahjong club. Owner Machelle Womack also offers in-home lessons.
- Instagram | Facebook
- When: Varies — see social profiles for more details
- Where: Trussville
- Cost: Varies
The Marvelous Mrs. Mazer
This Birmingham mahjong instructor is also the head of sales and business development at Oh My Mahjong, a modern lifestyle brand that sells beautifully designed mahjong sets and accessories.
Mrs. Mazer regularly teaches mahjong classes around the Birmingham area, so be sure to follow her on social media to keep up with any upcoming events.
- Instagram | Facebook
- When: Varies — see social profiles for more details
- Where: Throughout Birmingham area
- Cost: Varies
What did we miss, Birmingham? Let us know about your favorite mahjong events in the Magic City area by tagging us @bhamnow on Facebook and Instagram!
