Signing up for a mahjong night by yourself, or with a friend who has never played, can feel like a leap. So here is exactly what happens at a So Bam Fun event, from the moment you arrive to the last hand.
The quick version
- Two hours of mahjong at a local partner venue, such as a restaurant, bar, or cafe.
- No experience needed for our Beginner Lesson events.
- Come solo or with friends. Solo players are paired with others at the table.
- Everything is provided: tiles, racks, and cards. You just bring yourself.
- Tickets are sold on our ticket site, and many events include a drink or small bites.
Three ways to play
We run three kinds of events, so you can start where you are:
- Beginner Lesson. A structured 2-hour class. Your instructor covers the tiles, rules, and basics, then guides you through practice hands and a real game. No experience needed. Solo players and groups are welcome.
- Guided Open Play. For players who know the basics and want structured practice with an instructor on hand. At least one lesson is required first.
- Open Play. For experienced players who already know the game. No instruction, just friendly gameplay with others who are comfortable with the rules.
What happens, step by step
- Arrive and settle in. Doors open 15 minutes before the start. Grab a drink and find your table.
- Meet your instructor. For beginner and guided sessions, a quick intro kicks things off.
- Play. Tiles hit the table. Instructors circulate, and beginners get guided help.
- Stay and keep playing. Events run two hours, plenty of time to play multiple hands and get to know your table.
Coming alone? That’s normal.
Many people come solo, and it is one of the best parts. You get paired with other players at your table, so you will not be left out. If you are nervous, remember that everyone at a Beginner Lesson is learning too.
What to bring
Just yourself. We provide all tiles, racks, and cards.
What does it cost, and what is included?
Prices vary by city and venue. In recent listings, Beginner Lessons ran about $50-$80 and Open Play about $25-$75.
Each ticket lists what it includes. At many venues that is a drink or small bites, or a discount on your tab. At some venues nothing is included in the ticket and you order food and drinks on arrival. Check the “includes” line on the ticket you are buying.
Which event should I pick?
| If you… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Have never played, or played once | Beginner Lesson |
| Know the basics and want coaching | Guided Open Play (at least one lesson required) |
| Are comfortable with the rules | Open Play |
Not sure? Start with a Beginner Lesson. It is the best way in, and our beginner’s guide will get you ready. Curious how many sessions it takes to feel comfortable? See how long it takes to learn American mahjong.
How to sign up (and what if it sells out)
Register through the ticket links on our events page. New events are added every month across our cities. Popular events do sell out, and when they do you can join the waitlist on the event page.
A note on refunds: tickets are non-refundable within 48 hours of the event start time, and the ticketing platform’s booking fees are never refundable.
Find events in your city
Each city page shows the next upcoming events, with dates, venues, and prices:
Atlanta · Austin · Boston · Chicago · Dallas · Los Angeles · Nashville · New York City · Orange County · Phoenix · San Francisco · Washington, D.C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything people usually ask before or during a session. Still stuck? Email us at hello@sobamfun.com.
Do I need to know how to play to come?
Not for a Beginner Lesson. Those assume zero experience. For Guided Open Play and Open Play, some familiarity helps.
Can I come by myself?
Yes. Many attendees come solo and get paired with other players at the event.
How long does an event last?
Two hours. Doors open 15 minutes before the start.
What should I bring?
Just yourself. All tiles, racks, and cards are provided.
Is food or drink included?
It depends on the venue. Each ticket lists what it includes, and at some venues you order on arrival.
What if the event is sold out?
Join the waitlist on the event page. New events are added every month.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Tickets are non-refundable within 48 hours of the event start time, and booking fees are never refundable.
Ready to Play with an Instructor?
Reading about it is one thing. Sitting down at a table is where it clicks. Find your next event, or book a private lesson for your own group.