Vail Mah Jongg Group Gains Popularity

Residents find community and connection through the classic tile game.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:05pm

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After recovering from multiple back surgeries, East Vail resident Dana Dance turned to learning Mah Jongg, a classic tile-based game. She was able to find a local Mah Jongg group in Vail, Colorado, and has since seen the group grow in popularity as more residents discover the social and recreational benefits of playing the game together.

Why it matters

The rise of the Vail Mah Jongg group reflects a broader trend of residents seeking out new hobbies and social connections, especially among those recovering from health issues or looking to stay active. Mah Jongg provides an engaging activity that brings the community together around a shared interest.

The details

Dana Dance learned to play Mah Jongg from friends in Las Vegas while recovering from her third of four back surgeries. Unable to hike or bike, she decided to see if she could find a local Mah Jongg group in Vail. The group has since grown as more residents have discovered the game and the social benefits of playing it together.

  • Last summer, Dana Dance was recovering from her third of four back surgeries.
  • Dance learned to play Mah Jongg from friends in Las Vegas.

The players

Dana Dance

An East Vail resident who learned to play Mah Jongg while recovering from multiple back surgeries.

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What they’re saying

“I learned the game from some friends in Las Vegas, and I decided to see if I could find a group here at home.”

— Dana Dance

The takeaway

The growth of the Vail Mah Jongg group shows how residents are finding new ways to stay active, socialize, and build community, even during periods of recovery or limited mobility. The classic tile game provides an engaging and inclusive activity that brings people together around a shared interest.