Invite the right group
American Mah Jongg is commonly played with four participants. Explain whether the evening is intended for complete beginners, a mixed-experience group or a regular competitive table.
If someone is brand new, having one patient instructor present can make the evening much smoother. A teaching round usually takes longer than a normal game, so leave room in the schedule.
Check your equipment
Before guests arrive, inspect the tile set, racks, dice, and any pushers or other accessories you plan to use. Ask guests to bring the current official annual cards used by your group.
Make sure the playing surface is large enough for all four players to arrange their racks and interact with the tile walls comfortably. Good lighting is especially important with decorative tile designs.
Set simple house expectations
Decide when to pause for explanations, whether players may ask strategy questions during a teaching hand and how refreshments or breaks will work. Different groups have different customs, so a quick conversation at the start avoids misunderstandings.
An introductory evening is not the best place to insist on speed. Giving people permission to consult their cards and ask questions keeps the experience enjoyable.
Make it welcoming
Offer comfortable chairs, water and room for guests to place their belongings away from the tiles. Keep food that could stain the set off the immediate playing area.
Afterward, ask which parts were confusing and whether guests want to practice again. A recurring low-pressure gathering is a wonderful way for newcomers to improve through regular play.
This is independent educational information, not an official rulebook. For definitive American Mah Jongg play, consult your current official annual card and the rules used by your group.