Experience level: Beginner; ages 18+
Are you interested in learning how to play American Mahjong? Join other newbies at American Mahjong for Beginners on Mondays, February 15 and 22 from 1-4 p.m. in the Solarium.
Led by Bianca Green, the first class will cover the basics. You’ll meet the tiles, game setup, the Charleston — along with how to read the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card and begin building hands.
The second class is designed to provide additional instruction that will help you better understand how to set up the game, work through the Charleston, decipher the NMJL scorecard, and begin to learn and incorporate game strategies and defense.
$90/person*. Register here. Registration closes February 8 or when capacity is reached. All sales are final.
*It is recommended that students purchase the 2026 National Mah Jongg League Card ($14-15), but it is not required.
If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.
By attending, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.
About the Instructor
Natalie Bush learned to play Mahjong earlier this year and began teaching private lessons this summer. She teaches the American style game according to the National Mah Jongg League (NMLJ) rules. Natalie has experience teaching fitness, dog training, government fiscal systems and operations, and human resources employee benefits. She is always learning and regularly steps into a new hobby, activity, or adventure with Mahjong becoming her most recent passion.
About the Farms
The Farms: An Allerton Folk School, offers classes, workshops, and gatherings focusing on art, outdoor education, science, storytelling, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on, experiential teaching and learning, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.
