Our Clever Finds

Are you ready for the latest social craze? I’ve had so much fun playing pickleball with a group of lovely ladies each week that I was ready to discover new social games. So when my sister invited me to learn Mahjong with a group of friends, I jumped at the opportunity. It seems like Mahjong is everywhere right now!

We’re all beginners, but we’re enjoying learning together and even plan on taking a local class to better understand the game — because it is challenging. Don’t get discouraged at first; it can feel overwhelming, but it does get easier. Once you understand the setup and general play, it’s very rewarding and good for the old brain.

One thing that keeps it interesting: just as soon as you start leaning into your favorite patterns for the win, the National Mah Jongg League sends out new pattern cards each year. I love that it keeps things challenging.

Now that we’re dedicating ourselves to weekly get-togethers — and may eventually even tackle some community game play — we’re getting our own sets together. Here’s everything the Clever Crew is playing with, plus a few hosting extras that make game day even better.

Learn the Game

Before you buy a single tile, start here. A good beginner guide and the current year’s card are the two things every new player truly needs.

Build Your Set

It can be fun buying separate items to match your personality — but if you aren’t too sure how committed you’ll be, go with the all-in-one beginner set at the end of this section and upgrade later.

Host Like a Pro

One thing we noticed while taking turns hosting: our normal kitchen and dining room tables were a bit cumbersome for playing. That’s why I purchased a dedicated game table — for home and for transporting to other hosts’ houses.

My husband wants to learn, but he has difficulty sitting in uncomfortable metal chairs for long — so for a little more, I added this cushioned set. Between Mahjong, the occasional poker night, board games with the grandkids, and extra seating during large gatherings, these will get a lot of use.

Bonus: For the Truly Addicted

Yes, this exists — and yes, it’s exactly as fun as it sounds. If your crew reaches the point where even pool time can’t interrupt game time, this floating table lets you play Mahjong, cards, or any tabletop game right in the water. Summer game day, solved.

Keep It Fun: Treats & Sips

Of course, it’s not all seriousness — we always have plenty of yummy treats and adult beverages to keep it fun. Last game I brought mimosa mixes using these wonderful glass carafes with lids and plenty of Prosecco.

My 3 Mimosa Mixes That Were a Big Hit

Each recipe fills one carafe (about 4 cups of mix) — enough for a table of four with refills. Prep the mixes the night before, pop the lids on, and chill. Add the Prosecco glass by glass when you pour so it stays bubbly all afternoon. One standard bottle of Prosecco covers all three carafes.

1. Classic Sunshine

• 3 cups orange juice (pulp-free pours prettier)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• Optional: a few orange slices in the carafe for looks

To serve: fill each glass halfway with mix, top with Prosecco.

2. Berry Game Day

• 2 cups cranberry-raspberry juice
• 1½ cups lemonade
• ½ cup orange juice
• A handful of fresh raspberries dropped into the carafe

To serve: half mix, half Prosecco, and spoon a raspberry or two into each glass.

3. Peaches & Cream (of the Crop)

• 3 cups peach nectar
• 1 cup white grape juice
• Squeeze of half a lemon to brighten it up
• Optional: thin peach slices in the carafe

To serve: fill glasses one-third with mix, top with Prosecco — peach nectar is rich, so a little goes further.

Short on time? You can always buy ready-made Simply juices and add them straight to the carafes.

For more hosting inspiration, see my article 10 Festive Finds for Outdoor Summer Entertaining and Dinner Parties — many of those finds pull double duty for game day.

Poor Pepper wasn’t able to join this one — but she had thoughts anyway.