Date:  February 27, 2026  |   Story: Tiffany Adams  |   Photography: Rett Peek  |  

Bam. Dot. Crak. Rooted in 19th-century China, the American version of mahjong has skyrocketed in popularity in the States. “I believe some of this can be attributed to individuals craving community, connection, and a new way of gathering with friends,” says local instructor Andrea Devine. What’s more, recent studies link playing the strategic game to improved cognitive function and emotional well-being.

Requiring little more than a group of four friends, tiles (featuring the bam, dot, and crak suits noted above), and the National Mah Jongg League card, you can scare up a game just about anywhere. And, while connection may be at the heart of the craze, personalization is equally present with eyecatching tiles, mats, and accessories available in patterns and palettes galore.

Thanks to Little Rock’s Devine Mahjong (@devine_mahjong) for the use of this set for photography. Contact owner Andrea Devine to learn the game, rent tiles for play, or join a league.