Mahjong’s moment: Local classes draw all ages as tactile, social game sees surge in popularity

Strawberry resident Julien Letard, Belvedere resident Jennifer Hull and Tiburon resident Sandy Edinger play at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library’s open play mahjong session Nov. 4. (Tyler Callister / The Ark)

Twelve-year-old Strawberry resident Julien Letard leans over 144 mahjong tiles spread on the table at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library Nov. 4. A lollipop hangs from his mouth as he moves the tiles — decorated with dragons, flowers and Chinese characters — from the mahjong wall to his rack. The room is quiet except for the click and clack of tiles and Letard’s voice as he teaches novice adults how to play.

The scene is far from the centuries-old Chinese game’s origins with Asian elders, but it reflects a growing national trend. Mahjong is having a moment, increasingly found in bars, restaurants and public spaces as people seek real-world social interaction after the pandemic. Mahjong events in the U.S. jumped 179% between 2023 and 2024, according to Eventbrite.

Throughout the Tiburon Peninsula — offered by the Belvedere-Tiburon Library, Strawberry Recreation District and The Ranch — mahjong classes are exploding in popularity. Residents of all ages are catching on, finding community and competition amid clacking tiles.

The Ranch, Tiburon and Belvedere’s joint recreation agency, has held seven beginner mahjong course series since late 2024. Strawberry Rec began its own beginner classes in October. The library launched Tuesday-night open play sessions in August. Both The Ranch and Strawberry Rec plan to start new open-play sessions in early 2026.

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