Let's talk 'Hosting a Mahjong Game'

So you’ve finally got Mahjong down pact, and are ready to delve into a weekly game with friends but, this means you might actually need to host people at your place. For some, the thought of hosting can feel very intimidating. ‘My house isn’t as nice or as big as hers, my home is a complete mess, I don’t know what to serve'. You get the gist.

Keep in mind, the evening is primarily about spending quality time with friends, and that Mahjong is the outlet. Unless you’re a shark. That’s why I stress the idea of keeping things simple and centered around the basics. Here is a list of things to consider when hosting:

Take turns hosting

Are you going round robin? It’s very typical for all players to take part in this right of passage. This alleviates the pressure of one person always having to host. For the super host, (you know who you are) this is more than fun. For others, it’s a stressor, and we don’t want that. You also don’t want any bad feelings circulating when certain players are never opening their home to others. So, take turns and keep it light. The exception to this rule is of course, if you really don’t have the space, the space is too noisy, or there isn’t ample parking for your guests. And, if you find yourself in this situation then I suggest offering to provide the snacks occasionally.

Where in the house will you play, what table will you use?

If you are lucky enough to have a Mahjong table, or any square game table for that matter, then that’s the best option. But you can easily accommodate using a round table or even rectangular dining table. For rectangular tables, I suggest having two players side by side on the long edge of the table, and then having everyone turn in on an angle to form a square. (see attached pic for reference) Don’t stress about it. In the end, you’ll make it work!

What will I serve my guests?

For some, this could be very daunting. There’s no need to prepare a gourmet meal, and I would even discourage it. It’s too much of a distraction. That’s why I recommend keeping it light with just a few munchies. Have water/beverages available, and a few light snacks that only require your hands such as chips, nuts, chocolates, and/or veggies & dip. And from my own experience, if you play evenings, most have just had dinner and are not hungry, but just looking to nosh. Talk openly as a group about your expectations and do what works best for all. And if you’re dying to host a dinner with your Mahj friends, go for it, but consider keeping it separate from game night.

How much time to allot for playing?

Of course, this is a personal preference and depends on many factors. Your group will need to figure out what works best for you, but at the very minimum, plan for two hours. Either way, I strongly suggest keeping to your commitment. If a foursome is dedicating their time to play, it’s not fair to run out early and leave your friends short a player. It could get frustrating. However, if you know how to play with less than four, (loads of fun too) than play can continue.

Keep the evening Light and Fun

Most, if not all of you will be anxiously awaiting to see your Mahj besties every week. It’s your day/night out, a distraction from your everyday chaos and an opportunity to share laughs & make beautiful memories. Leave your personal problems at home and use this time to connect with friends and really enjoy the game.

Now what are you waiting for? Next Monday is open!