Chicago Mah Jongg Tournament
LIVE BIG. LAKE BREEZE. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES. · Apr 30 – May 2, 2027
What's Included
Schedule
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
Add nights only if you're arriving early or staying late. Up to 2 nights each way.
Enter your roommate's details — we use their email to link your bookings automatically.
East is responsible for bringing a clean, white-faced tournament mahjongg set.
Top Things To Do in Chicago, IL
Make a weekend of it — here's what's nearby.
1
MILLENNIUM PARK
Snap a pic at Cloud Gate, stroll through beautiful parks, and enjoy public art and city views.
View on map →
2
ARCHITECTURE RIVER CRUISE
See the city from a new perspective on a relaxing cruise through Chicago's architectural wonders.
View on map →
3
THE ART INSTITUTE
Explore world-renowned art collections from iconic pieces to modern masterpieces.
View on map →
4
LAKEFRONT TRAIL & BEACHES
Bike, run, or walk along the lakefront trail and relax at North Avenue Beach with stunning views.
View on map →
5
WRIGLEY FIELD
Catch a Cubs game at the Friendly Confines and experience one of baseball's most iconic stadiums.
View on map →
6
CHICAGO FOOD TOUR
Savor the best of Chicago—deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, hot dogs, and flavor-packed hidden gems.
View on map →
7
NAVY PIER
Enjoy rides, attractions, dining, shopping, and fireworks right on the beautiful lakefront.
View on map →
8
360 CHICAGO
Take in breathtaking views from the 94th floor at 360 Chicago (formerly John Hancock Observatory).
View on map →Venue & Hotel
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
933 Skokie Blvd, Northbrook, IL 60062
About This Tournament
Join fellow American Mah Jongg enthusiasts for three days of competition, camaraderie, kindness, and Chicago hospitality. Whether you're an experienced tournament player or participating in your first tournament, you'll enjoy a professionally organized event designed for players with a solid knowledge of American Mah Jongg and the ability to maintain tournament pace.
Our tournament follows standard National Mah Jongg League rules using the current official NMJL card. You'll play 12 rounds over three days, rotating tables each round to meet new opponents while testing your strategy, consistency, and decision-making in a competitive environment where kindness and good sportsmanship are valued as highly as great play. Players should be comfortable completing four games within the 55-minute tournament time limit.
Beyond the games, enjoy daily breakfast, group lunches, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow Mah Jongg players from across the country. Many participants say the friendships they make are just as memorable as the competition itself. Bring your NMJL card, your competitive spirit, and let Destination Mah Jongg take care of the rest.
What to Bring
A quick checklist to help you pack for tournament weekend.
🀄 Mah Jongg Essentials
- Current-year NMJL card (required)
- Your Mah Jongg set (loaner sets available)
- Hand tracker (if you use one)
👕 Clothing
- Comfortable casual attire
- Layers — conference rooms can be cool
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweater
📱 Personal
- Phone charger and cable
- Medications and toiletries
- Reading glasses (if needed)
- Water bottle
- Cash/credit card for shopping our amazing vendors
✨ Optional
- Snacks for between rounds
- Small tote or bag for personal items
- Camera for memories
- Business cards for new friends
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill levels are welcome?
We warmly welcome first-time tournament players along with experienced competitors. To ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone, players should have a strong knowledge of American Mah Jongg, be familiar with NMJL rules, and be able to comfortably complete four games within the 55-minute tournament time limit. While we're always happy to welcome new tournament players, this is a competitive event rather than a teaching tournament.
What’s included in my registration?
The hotel package includes your hotel room, daily breakfast for hotel guests, group lunch each day, and all tournament fees. The commuter package ($250, for those living within 30 miles) includes tournament play and lunch only.
Do I need to bring a partner?
No! Many players attend solo. You’ll be seated with players at your skill level and will rotate throughout the tournament. It’s a wonderful way to meet fellow Mah Jongg enthusiasts from across the country.
What should I bring?
See our What to Bring section above for a complete packing checklist. The essentials: your current-year NMJL card, comfortable clothes in layers, and your enthusiasm!
How do I get to the venue?
The Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel is at 933 Skokie Blvd, Northbrook, IL 60062, about 25 minutes from O'Hare (ORD) and about 50 minutes from Midway (MDW). Self-parking is available at the hotel. See the Venue section for a map.
What is the tournament format?
Three days of play, 12 rounds total. We follow standard NMJL rules with the current-year card. Rounds 1–3 on Friday evening, Rounds 4–9 on Saturday, and Rounds 10–12 plus awards on Sunday.
Can I register as a commuter?
Yes! If you live within 30 miles of the venue, you can register as a commuter for $250. This includes tournament play and group lunch each day. Hotel and breakfast are not included.
What is your cancellation or refund policy?
Our full policies — including cancellations, refunds, and transfers — are on our Policies page. Please review them before registering.
Why You'll Love This Weekend
Three days of American Mah Jongg, new friendships, and Chicago's legendary lakefront energy, all bundled into one effortless weekend on the North Shore.
Community
Meet fellow Mah Jongg players from across the country. Many attendees return year after year.
Competition
Twelve rounds of tournament play. Fair, organized rotation with new opponents each session.
All-Inclusive
Hotel, daily breakfast, group lunch, and tournament fees bundled into one package.
Chicago
Millennium Park, architecture tours, deep-dish pizza, and world-class museums a short drive from the venue.
This Tournament Is Perfect For
First-Time Players
Never played in a tournament? You'll feel welcome from the first round.
Experienced Competitors
Seasoned tournament players will find challenging play and organized rounds.
Groups of Friends
Share a room, split the cost, and make it a Mah Jongg getaway.
Solo Travelers
Come alone, leave with friends. Rotating partners means you'll meet dozens of fellow enthusiasts.
Twelve rounds. Three days. One unforgettable Mah Jongg weekend in Chicago.
Reserve Your Spot →