New York’s first Jewish Mah Jongg Festival brought more than 350 players to the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Lower Manhattan for two days of lessons, social games, panel discussions, vendors and tournament play. 

The festival highlighted Mah Jongg’s ability to bridge generations and turn strangers into playing partners. New and experienced players alike gathered to sharpen their skills, while teachers celebrated the game’s continuing revival and its capacity to create memorable moments. 

Lower Manhattan served as a wonderful cultural backdrop for the event, as being near Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty underscored how Mah Jongg has historically helped Jewish women, families and communities form friendships and bridge age gaps across generations.