You’ve learned the rules of Mah Jongg. You’ve played a few games. Now it’s time to discover what experienced players are really thinking.

Mah Jongg 201 is designed for players who are comfortable with the basics and are ready to take the next step in their Mah Jongg journey. This interactive class builds upon the strong foundation established in our Beginners Series and introduces the strategic thinking that transforms beginners into confident players.

In this two-part hands-on workshop, Santa Barbara Mah Jongg teachers Cynthia McClelland and Sandra Walther will explore the built-in strategies hidden within every game—techniques that help you make better decisions before the first tile is even discarded. You’ll learn:

The Art of the Charleston

• Learn to evaluate your tiles with purpose.
• Make smarter passing decisions.
• Recognize opportunities to strengthen multiple hands.
• Set yourself up for success before the game even begins.

Built-In Strategies

• Discover the subtle advantages built into the game.
• Learn how flexibility can keep more winning options alive.
• Understand why experienced players often make different choices than
• beginners.

How to Assess Your Hand Like a Pro

• Learn how to quickly recognize strengths, weaknesses, and possibilities.
• Develop a strategy instead of simply collecting matching tiles.
• Improve your confidence in choosing a direction.

How to Make Better Decisions Throughout the Game

• when to pivot
• when to commit
• when to be patient
• and when to take a calculated risk

Insights That Aren’t Found in the Rule Book

• practical tips gathered from years of teaching and playing
• real game situations and interactive exercises
• plenty of discussion, questions, and “Why didn’t I think of that?” moments

This class is perfect for you if:

• You’ve completed our Beginners Series.
• You know how to play but sometimes feel unsure of your decisions.
• You want to become more strategic and confident at the table.
• You’re ready to think beyond the mechanics and start playing the game with intention.

Go from learning the game to understanding the game in two sessions:

• Monday, October 05
• Tuesday, October 06

Participants should plan to attend both sessions.

Join us as we uncover the strategies that experienced players use every game and discover how thoughtful decisions—especially during the Charleston—can influence everything that follows.

Because in Mah Jongg, the best players don’t just play the tiles, they play the possibilities.

This event will be hosted in our third-floor loft space, which is only accessible by stairs.