Mahjong has become one of the hottest social games around, but for many people, learning how to play can feel intimidating. That’s where Mahjong Mafia comes in.
The Austin-based community group is introducing newcomers to the centuries-old game through free meetups focused on culture, education and connection. Founders Chris and Erin recently welcomed We Are Austin hosts Trevor Scott and Sierra to the table for their very first lesson.
Founders Chris and Erin recently welcomed We Are Austin hosts Trevor Scott and Sierra to the table for their very first lesson.
A Game With Deep Roots
While Mahjong has been played for centuries, Chris says several factors have helped fuel its recent surge in popularity.
“I think people are just now kind of slowly catching wind to it,” he said. “Social media definitely helped.”
Along with traditional Chinese Mahjong, many players have also discovered American Mahjong, introducing even more people to the game.
“For us, it’s been part of our culture since we grew up,” Chris said.
Reconnecting Through Mahjong
For Erin, learning Mahjong became a way to reconnect with her family’s heritage.
Although her grandmother owned a Mahjong set, Erin never learned to play growing up.
“It was always something I knew about,” she said. “I’ve just always wanted to learn.”
Chris shared a similar experience, saying many of his Asian American friends grew up around Mahjong but were never taught the game by their parents.
“I kind of selfishly started the club so I could learn how to play,” he joked. “But it also gave me the ability to reconnect with my heritage.”
Mahjong has become one of the hottest social games around, but for many people, learning how to play can feel intimidating. That’s where Mahjong Mafia comes in.
From Four Members to Hundreds
What started with just four people has grown into one of Austin’s fastest-growing Mahjong communities.
“When we first started, it started with four people,” Chris said. “We have over 300 people in the club now.”
The group’s mission is simple: make Mahjong welcoming and accessible for everyone.
Learning Is Always Free
Unlike some clubs that charge for lessons or table time, Mahjong Mafia offers free meetups.
“It was important for us to make it free because we grew up playing it for free,” Chris said.
The group partners with local businesses to host gatherings and welcomes players of every skill level.
When newcomers arrive, organizers pair them with other beginners and experienced teachers who guide them through the basics.
“We have a lot of amazing teachers that are going to sit there and teach you how to play,” Chris said.
Founders Chris and Erin recently welcomed We Are Austin hosts Trevor Scott and Sierra to the table for their very first lesson.
More Than Just a Game
For Chris, Mahjong is about much more than matching tiles.
Every game brings back childhood memories of hearing family members shuffle tiles, chat around the table and celebrate a winning hand.
“Every time I hear the tiles being shuffled, it takes me back to being a kid,” he said.
That same sense of community is what Mahjong Mafia hopes to create for every new player who sits down at the table.
Whether you’re looking to learn a new hobby, connect with others or explore a cultural tradition, Mahjong Mafia invites everyone to pull up a chair.
To learn more about upcoming free meetups, visit Mahjong Mafia on social media.