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Mahjong, a traditional Chinese tile-based strategy game, has seen a recent surge in popularity across the United States. Wondering where to learn Mahjong in Winston-Salem? Check out these local instructors!
July 9, 2025
Camel City Mahjong
- What: Ashley Pearce founded Camel City Mahjong with her mother, Libby, in November 2024, continuing a beloved family tradition. For Ashley, the game is more than just a pastime—it’s a meaningful way to connect with others. “You have to block out all the outside noise and focus completely on what you’re doing,” she says. “For a couple of hours, it’s just you and a few friends—nothing else matters…[it] truly builds community.”
- When: Camel City Mahjong primarily holds beginner lessons and open play sessions at Footnote Coffee, Foothills Brewpub, and local boutiques like Primm’s. Open play is typically $15 per person, and beginner lessons are typically $40 per person.
Momahjong
- What: Morgan Thomas’ Mahjong journey started when she watched Crazy Rich Asians (check out the Mahjong scene). She later inherited her late grandmother’s vintage tile set, learned to play, and started Momahjong in 2024! She loves how the game fosters connection and appreciates that it’s both accessible to beginners and rich with deep, advanced strategy.
- When: Morgan holds beginner lessons and open play at East of Texas and Maddie Cakes Bakery. Her open play events are free to attend, and her beginner lessons are typically $50 per person.
Bonus
- What: If you’re looking to invest in a mahjong set to kickstart your new hobby, check out The Dash Tiles, a Winston-Salem-themed tile set started by locals Molly and Meg! Keep an eye on their Instagram for future product releases.
- The Tiles: The themed set’s three suites are represented by cigarettes for our history as the Camel City, doughnuts for being the birthplace of Krispy Kreme, and Moravian stars to honor Salem’s founders.
