Apex Mahjong Club Plays Local

How did the club get started?

Morgan, Shannon and Lisa learned the game together. “At first, we were surprised at how complex the game was but after a few rounds and lots of practice, we fell in love,” Lisa says.

They had seen other mahjong groups building community around the table, “and we knew we wanted in!” They also wanted to support Downtown Apex businesses as they grow, so they started bringing groups to play at local spots. “We planned our first event and were shocked when we filled up Southern Peak Brewery with people all craving connection and community, and of course mahjong!”

What does a first-timer walk into?

Lisa calls Mahjong for Beginners “a great place to start.” As she puts it: “We teach you the basics and you’ll even play your first full game during the class.”

If you’re new, she says, you’ll find “a group of women who like to laugh a lot, cheer each other on, and enjoy the game of mahjong.” Seasoned players are welcome too.

What makes the events special?

“We love playing mahjong (and winning mahjong!) but our events are also full of chit-chat and catching up and laughing and eating and drinking together,” Lisa says.

The club has hosted “everything from pilates and barre events to make-up and skin care events, from sipping lattes to sipping IPAs,” and has cheered on a player who won four games in a row.

Along the way, the founders have watched friendships form and turn into group chats and “see you next week,” with players connecting even away from the table. That was the point from the start: “We started Apex Mahjong Club with the goal of building community and supporting Apex local businesses, all while teaching and playing mahjong.”

For dates, prices and which class or event fits you, ask Apex Mahjong Club on Instagram.