Hey, y’all — City Editor Molly here. And in case you missed it, mahjong is having a moment in Lexington.
This year, I made a commitment to myself to try new things, whether that be a hobby, an artistic endeavor, or new fitness class. I can officially check that first activity off my list because this weekend I learned to play the tile-based game thanks to the fun guidance of Mahjong-Lex.
The group is led by three friends + local educators — Allison George, Sara Dean, and Sarah Breault. Fun fact: Breault originally learned how to play at the Tates Creek Library 10+ years ago with her mother and mother-in-law, who still play in a mahjong group together.
What started as a one-time private lesson for a group of friends in November 2024, has now turned into a sold-out series of monthly classes.
You can even request to host your own private mahjong lesson with Mahjong-Lex. | Photo courtesy of @mahjonglex
In my very limited experience, the goal of the game is to create a specific sequence with the tiles you are dealt + pick up. Thankfully in American mahjong you can consult the book of sequences, but there are some very specific rules. My personal fave is to cheers when someone pulls a “bam birdie” tile.
“We go through everything very slowly, we answer any question you have, and I think we create a very fun and laid back environment,” said Breault. “We’re not strict. We want to have fun, take our time, and hope that everyone feels comfortable asking questions when they need to.”
Be sure to follow their Instagram account to stay in the loop on classes and the ladies’ latest offerings. Mahjong-Lex hosts at least five sessions each month:
- MJ 101 | In these three-hour sessions, you’ll receive a thorough explanation of rules and best practices, plus guidance as you try a game yourself. (This is what I played.) These classes are held twice a month.
- Mahjong Follow-up | After you have completed your 101, join the group for two hours of guided game play to build more confidence at the table. These classes are also held twice a month.
- Mahj + Margs | This outing, typically held at a local Mexican restaurant, is designed for those with experience at the table. Here the group will let you use their mahjong sets + be on hand for an extra set of eyes. Right now these are held once a month.
And while I didn’t win — actually no one at our table did — my friends and I had a blast + we can’t wait to play again at a follow-up class. I’ll share more about the experience on our Instagram account.
