Houston Mah Jongg Tournament
Big City. Big Heart. · Nov 6–8, 2026
What's Included
Schedule
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
Top Things To Do in Houston, TX
Make a weekend of it — here's what's nearby.
1
SPACE CENTER HOUSTON
Explore space history, see real spacecraft, and learn about NASA's missions.
View on map →
2
3
HERMANN PARK
Enjoy the Houston Zoo, Japanese Garden, paddle boating, and scenic trails.
View on map →
4
5
BUFFALO BAYOU PARK
Bike, walk, or kayak along the bayou with incredible views of the skyline.
View on map →
7
HOUSTON'S FOOD SCENE
From BBQ to Tex-Mex to global flavors, your taste buds are in for a treat.
View on map →
Venue & Hotel
The Westin Houston
Memorial City 945 Gessner Road Houston, Texas
- 🏨 On-site restaurant and bar
- 🅿️ Self-parking available ($15/day for guests)
- 🏋️ Fitness center & outdoor pool
- 📶 Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout
- ✈️ 35 min from Bush Intercontinental (IAH)
- ✈️ 30 min from Hobby Airport (HOU)
About This Tournament
Join fellow American Mah Jongg enthusiasts for three days of competition, camaraderie, kindness, and Houston hospitality at The Westin Memorial City. 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 ($220, 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 Westin Houston Memorial City is at 945 Gessner Road, Houston, TX 77024 — about 35 minutes from Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and 30 minutes from Hobby Airport (HOU). 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 $220. 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 Houston hospitality — all bundled into one effortless weekend at The Westin Memorial City.
Community
Meet fellow Mah Jongg players from across the country. Many attendees return year after year — the friendships become as much a draw as the games themselves.
Competition
Twelve rounds of tournament play over three days. Fair, organized rotation ensures you face new opponents each session and every game counts.
All-Inclusive
Your hotel room, daily breakfast, group lunch, and all tournament fees are bundled into one package. No hidden costs — just arrive, settle in, and play Mah Jongg.
Houston
Between rounds, explore NASA's Space Center, the Museum District, Buffalo Bayou Park, and a food scene that spans BBQ to Tex-Mex to global cuisine.
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. Double and triple occupancy packages keep the per-person price friendly.
Solo Travelers
Come alone, leave with friends. We seat you with rotating partners, so you'll meet dozens of fellow Mah Jongg enthusiasts over the weekend.
Twelve rounds. Three days. One unforgettable Mah Jongg weekend in Houston.
Reserve Your Spot →