Mahjong on Boyd Plaza

Name: Mahjong on Boyd Plaza
Start: 2026-05-13T10:30:00-04:00
End: 2026-05-13T13:15:00-04:00
Location: Columbia Museum of Art

Schedule

Wed May 13 2026 at 10:30 am to 01:15 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Columbia Museum of Art | Columbia, SC

Join the CMA and Soda City Mahj on Boyd Plaza for a lively morning of Mahjong, the Chinese tile game with worldwide popularity. This program is open to all levels, from the weekly player to the complete newcomer.
Before getting started, learn about the history and cultural significance of Mahjong, from 19th-century China to 1920s New York to today, with faculty from the University of South Carolina’s Chinese studies department. Then head right into gameplay or start with a 90-minute lesson in American Mahjong led by Mary Ellen Barnwell, instructor and founder of Soda City Mahj. Whether continuing a familiar tradition or trying something new, this is a welcoming space for players across generations to learn, play, and connect. Refreshments provided, but personal snacks and nonalcoholic beverages are welcome.
Lessons are free with registration; all materials provided.
Open-play sessions are free, with table space offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 15 and up. Experienced players are encouraged to attend while playing with other local enthusiasts. Attendees are welcome to bring their own Mahjong sets or submit a request to have one provided (limited availability). For information on lessons and open-play details, or to reserve Mahjong tiles for open play, reach out to Wilson Bame at [email protected].
A grant from the Knight Foundation Fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation supports this project.
Can we assist you with accommodations for accessibility during your visit? Please let us know at 803-799-2810 or [email protected].