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Mahjong gatherings in San Francisco gaining popularity among Generation Z and millennials

Gathering enthusiasts seeking a break from digital screens, the beloved mahjong club led by Chinese-American Ryan Lee offers a chance for genuine interpersonal interactions.

Mahjong gatherings in San Francisco are gaining popularity among young generations, specifically...
Mahjong gatherings in San Francisco are gaining popularity among young generations, specifically Gen Z and millennials.

Mahjong gatherings in San Francisco gaining popularity among Generation Z and millennials

Gen Z Embraces Mahjong: A New Trend in Offline Activities

A new trend is emerging among the younger generation, as Gen Z shows a growing interest in the traditional Chinese game of Mahjong. According to Ryan Lee, a 25-year-old Chinese-American, Gen Z is intrigued by Mahjong, even if they don't know how to play.

Eventbrite, a popular event management platform, reports a significant increase in Mahjong events specifically, suggesting that the popularity of Mahjong among Gen Z is on the rise. This increase is attributed to Gen Z, according to Eventbrite, indicating a clear trend.

Ryan Lee, the person responsible for MahjongLee's Youth Luck Leisure Mahjong Club in San Francisco, first played Mahjong two years ago. He started hosting pop-up Mahjong parties in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs around the city, and the gatherings in his home became popular.

Lee's Mahjong club, Youth Luck Leisure (YLL), hosts bimonthly parties that offer a festive atmosphere, live DJs, custom cocktails, and the chance to meet new friends. The parties attract a diverse young crowd and can have up to 200 guests. YLL Mahjong Club parties can have up to 30 tables, ensuring there's always a spot for newcomers.

Instructors are available for novices at the YLL Mahjong Club parties, making it an accessible and welcoming environment for those who want to learn. The cultural component of Mahjong is a draw for many, as suggested by Ryan Lee's observations. There is a cultural nostalgia associated with Mahjong, according to Lee, which adds to its appeal.

Eventbrite also indicates a growing interest in "grannycore" activities, such as baking workshops and needlework circles, among Gen Z. This suggests that Gen Z is not just interested in traditional games like Mahjong, but also in offline activities that offer a sense of nostalgia and connection.

Mahjong events in the US saw a 179% increase from 2023 to 2024, according to Eventbrite, further evidence of the growing trend. As Gen Z continues to explore and embrace Mahjong, it will be interesting to see how this traditional game evolves in the modern world.

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