The game of Mahjong, which originated in China, is trending in the Tri-Town, as folks have found it a great way to exercise their brains and have fun. Interest in Mahjong is growing partly because the American version (“Mah Jongg”) is easier to learn and more people are playing the game on social media.
At the Mattapoisett Council on Aging (COA), Susan Schenker learned Mah Jongg, and after helping teach, she has co-taught with Tina Dolan for the past couple of years. They teach two two-hour sessions. In the first, they learn how to understand the tiles and read the cards. In the second, she says they “jump into messy Mah Jongg,” where everyone can see each other’s hands, making it easier for newcomers.
Schenker said she recommends people start playing right after learning the basics so they don’t forget the skills and can get more comfortable with the game. She also suggested using an app and playing with “bots” to practice.
Mah Jongg “is all about luck and skill, and it’s lots of fun but very addictive,” she said. This game is so popular that all her fall classes are full, and she has a waiting list. Charlette Mello of the Mattapoisett COA said, “It’s not just for old ladies anymore!” Even younger folks and men join the open play weekly group on Wednesdays from 1:00 to 3:00 pm (serious players only).
At the Sippican Woman’s Club in Marion, Charlotte Canelli said Mah Jongg has “taken off like wildfire!”
When they noticed rising interest, she said they decided to start three-week lessons teaching American Mah Jongg using the National Mah Jongg League official standard hands and rules based on the 2026 card. Club colleagues Wendy Cullum and Chris Dole teach members and non-members alike.
“We’ve had game nights for years, so this is just an addition to our events,” Canelli stated. Several members have been playing for years, and some were taught more recently.
The club organized weekly members-only groups in May 2026, with morning sessions on Wednesdays and evening sessions on Thursdays. In just three months, they have more than 20 active players, from beginners to experienced players.
“We have so much commitment, passion and energy for it. We enjoy playing and helping everyone feel confident playing,” Canelli said.
A group of Mattapoisett Ladies began playing Mahjong in 1975. A few of these ladies teach newbies to play on Saturday, September 26, from 2:00 to 3:00 pm at the Mattapoisett Library. Both Asian Mahjong and American Mah Jongg versions are offered.
By Ann Marie Dunn