The Philosopher's House

Mah Jongg
2026-01-22 14:30 - 16:30, 2026-01-29 14:30 - 16:30, 2026-02-05 14:30 - 16:30 (America/Halifax)
MahJongg, Mahjong or Mah-Jongg or it is also referred to as Maahj, is a rummy-like game played with tiles versus cards.
There are several versions of the game, but each version typically falls under two broad categories- American Mah Jongg and Chinese Mah Jongg.
We will be playing American Mah Jongg soon at the Philosopher’s House weekly on Thursdays from 3:30pm-5:30pm.
Four players are at each Maahj table. Multiple tables will have separate games. Players will be required to have their own 2024 Official Standard Hands and Rules card from the National Mah Jongg League, Inc. This is the 87th year of producing the card and the game is quite popular. Players may purchase cards at the League’s website www.nationalmahjonggleague.org or they may also be purchased from Amazon. Recently, there have been a few concerns with the legitimacy of the Amazon cards. The cards are $15.00 and it may take some time to receive them from the League office.
It is not a difficult game but it does take time to learn. There will be a discussion of the game set up, tiles and card, rules, and strategy and then we will dive in for a practice run. Please feel free to join us even if you’re curious and wanting to observe and ask questions.
Any questions regarding the game may be referred to Julie at 423-557-6132. Please leave a message if I do not answer!
How to register: Drop-in, but weekly playing is encouraged once you decide to commit
Location: Living Room, 1st floor
Materials Required: 2024 Official Standard Hands and Rules card (purchase from National Mah Jongg League, Inc.) at www.nationalmahjonggleague.org
Cost: Donation to tea counter or 2.00-5.00 per person, or Food and drink purchases encouraged to support nonprofit space.
Instructor/Registration Contact Information: Julie at 423-557-6132. Please leave a message if I do not answer!

Dungeons and Dragons (Group 1)
2026-01-22 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-29 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-05 18:00 - 20:00 | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, TN, 37604
Join us as we explore the wonderful world of tabletop adventure games, Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition. Beginner focused, no pressure gaming for ages 18+. Contact instructor for more information.
Materials Needed: None to start, see instructor for details
Where: Parlor space 2nd floor
Cost: 0-5.00 sliding scale suggested donation to support the space, OR food/drink purchase appreciated.
How to register: Drop-in permitted, first come-first serve so advance registration preferred. See instructor contact info below for registration. 8 person max
Instructor contact information: Sam at msixteenatoo@gmail.com

Dungeons and Dragons (Group 2)
2026-01-22 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-29 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-05 18:00 - 20:00
Join us as we explore the wonderful world of tabletop adventure games, Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition. Beginner focused, no pressure gaming for ages 18+. Contact instructor for more information.
Materials Needed: None to start, see instructor for details
Where: Drawing room space 2nd floor (walk through Parlor and down hall)
Cost: 5.00-8.00 sliding scale suggested donation to support the space, OR food/drink purchase appreciated.
How to register: Drop-in permitted, first come-first serve so advance registration preferred. See instructor contact info below for registration. 8 person max
Instructor contact information: Anthony at gudguygoku@gmail.com

Ana Pana Breathwork Meditation
2026-01-23 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-30 12:00 - 13:00
Guided group meditation Fridays at 12. Open space for anyone looking to practice silent or guided meditation. Open to all. Beginners welcome. We will be focusing on ana pana/natural respiration/nostril breathing. Lots of silence, but some gentle guidance into the practice
How to register: Register through this donation button, or drop-in. https://square.link/u/rsQey2gI
Cost: Sliding scale donation to support teahouse nonprofit (2.00-8.00), all are welcome regardless of ability to pay. Food/drink purchases encouraged. https://square.link/u/rsQey2gI
Location: Classroom/meditation space, 2nd level
Organizer Bradley Dargan:
“I am a Yoga practitioner and instructor with over 15 years of meditation experience. Breath and mindfulness meditations have been an integral part of my wellness over the years, and I would love to share practice with anyone interested in meditation.”

Poetry Writer's Workshop
2026-01-23 15:20 - 17:20
*This group is currently full, but if you would like to be added to the waitlist please email Kayla at nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com Second group has been added on 3rd Saturday of each month.*
This bi-weekly sharing circle is open to poets of all levels. Participants are encouraged to share their poetry in a friendly, constructive, and welcoming atmosphere. Attendees often discuss poetic themes, share resources and book recommendations, and discuss local poetry-related events. Occasionally, the group will offer a prompt for inspiration or have free writing time together. Contact facilitator for more information.
How to register :Advance registration required. See instructor contact below for registration.
Location: Drawing room, 2nd floor (through Parlor and down hall)

Materials Required: Writing notebook or laptop/tablet.

Cost: 5.00 donation to teahouse at tea counter OR drink/food purchases encouraged.
Instructor contact information: Kayla Nichols at 423-571-2949, nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com

¿Hablas Español? Spanish Language Club
2026-01-23 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-30 18:30 - 19:30
*NOTE: First Fridays will be at a local restaurant outside the teahouse.* Please check here or text instructor for location the week of First Fridays.

Conversational Spanish with Laura and friends. This is an opportunity to practice Spanish with several native Spanish speaking people, and form a community with activities like potlucks, game nights, etc… while speaking/learning Espańol.
All levels welcome, even if you speak no Spanish!
How to register: Drop-in
Location: Drawing room, 2nd floor (except First Fridays which are rotating on location)
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged.
Materials required: Notebook if you prefer. No materials needed.
Organizer: Text Laura Lopez at 423-383-6547

Drawing and Tea Social
2026-01-24 16:30 - 17:30, 2026-01-31 16:30 - 17:30
*NOTE:Holiday hours will affect meetup. No Drawing and Tea Social on 12/20, 12/27, or 1/3/25*
We support and appreciate each other’s artistic journeys. We have weekly challenges, sketchbook tours, art mentoring and more.
When: Saturdays at 4:30 – 5-30p
Location: Game Room, 1st floor
What to bring: any dry art and dry materials you would like to work on (Pencil, charcoal, pastel are ok. Please refrain from bringing any glitter or wet medias such as ink or paint.)

Silent Book Club JC
2026-01-25 14:00 - 16:00
Last Sunday of each month from 2-4pm, unless otherwise noted
Join us for the Johnson City Silent Book Club‘s monthly meetup – in-person at the Philosopher’s Teahouse
Bring any book you want (or – they have an extensive donated library to pluck an impulsive choice from!) and order something to eat or drink.
The format: We start at 2pm, with the first 30 minutes spent informally getting settled and chatting, then an official hour to silently read together, then the last 30 minutes opened up for further friendly discussion if desired. (You can find the link on our Facebook page, if this option is desired!)
Materials Required: A book you enjoy reading
Location: Living room/fireplace area, 1st floor
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged
How to register: Drop-in

Instructor Contact Information: Emily/Katt Sikora at emilyskatt@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064632796037

Teahouse Closed
2026-01-26, 2026-02-02
Our normal operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10am – 9pm and Sunday 10am – 7pm.
Be sure to check for occasional, special events held on Mondays.
Email us about venue rentals for special, private events.

Steeped in Stories Author Meetup
2026-01-27 17:30 - 19:00 | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, TN, 37604
Twice-Monthly meet up for local authors on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays: The goal is to be in community and encourage fellow authors on their current projects. We’ll do group feedback, discuss local events and collaborations, and have various discussion topics on the craft of writing, and the business of selling, books.
Feel free to drop in, but if you’d like to get on the email list to request feedback on a project or hear specifics about each month’s topic, email Molly McDonough at mcdonough.author@gmail.com.
The suggested payment for this event is a $5 donation to Philosopher’s House or the purchase of food or drink.
How to register: Drop-in OR email Molly to get on email list
Location: 2nd floor, drawing room
Cost: 5.00 donation at the following Steeped in Stories Donation or food/drink purchases encouraged.

Mandarin Language Class
2026-01-27 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-02-03 18:00 - 19:30
Description: Mandarin Chinese is the single largest first language in the world, with over 941 million native speakers, and has become an invaluable language for anyone to learn, whether they’re interested in engaging with Chinese business, learning more about Chinese politics, wanting to study deeper into Chinese culture, or just fascinated by language! This course will function as an absolute beginner course in Mandarin Chinese. Learning objectives will be to be able to read and pronounce pinyin, to learn very basic grammatical structures, very basic day-to-day vocabulary, begin to recognize and reproduce some characters, and be able to hold simple, introductory conversations. No prior Mandarin knowledge is necessary. If there are more advanced learners who would be interested in more advanced material, please contact the instructor.
Instructor Steven Jenkins: I have studied Mandarin Chinese at several universities in China and lived and worked in China for a number of years. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to help people start their journey in learning Mandarin Chinese!
How to register: Advanced registration is greatly preferred as class does have limited seating. See instructor contact for registration.
Cost: Food and drink purchases encouraged OR 5.00 donation at tea counter to support nonprofit.
Location: Drawing Room, 2nd floor
Materials needed: A notetaking device (laptop, tablet, notebook, etc.) . We will be using Integrated Chinese Level 1; Part 1, 4th edition, which is available in print and eBook formats from several sources. You can also use a previous edition, as those are readily available and less expensive. We will use Simplified characters in the class, as that is used in Mainland China and elsewhere. As that series has both textbooks and workbooks, be sure to select the textbook. If you have questions about the suitability of a version, feel free to contact the instructor.
Instructor Contact Information: Steven Jenkins (steven.jenkins@gmail.com)

Ukrainian language class (pre-register, limited seats available)
2026-01-28 17:30 - 18:30, 2026-02-04 17:30 - 18:30
Discover the Ukrainian Language: A Family-Friendly Journey of Culture and Connection Join us for an engaging experience in learning Ukrainian, designed for families and individuals alike. Our lessons are not just for adults; we welcome learners of all ages to explore the beauty of the Ukrainian language together. Whether you have Ukrainian heritage, wish to connect with friends, or are simply curious about new languages, this is a wonderful opportunity to dive into a rich cultural experience.
In our family-oriented lessons, you will explore: – Fundamentals of the Language: Start with the basics, including pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary, tailored for English speakers of all ages. – Cultural Insights: Discover Ukrainian traditions, music, and cuisine, enhancing your language skills with cultural context that the whole family can enjoy. – Practical Communication: Develop conversational skills that allow you to engage with native speakers and navigate everyday situations with confidence. Together, we will create a supportive and interactive space where families can learn, practice, and grow. Embrace the beauty of the Ukrainian language and culture, and discover how it connects us all.
How to register: Purchase a ticket here https://square.link/u/UDcpoaPM
Sliding scale donation to support The Philosopher’s House nonprofit, please give at the level that is comfortable/sustainable for you. You can purchase multiple weeks if you prefer, or pay weekly prior to class, so we can save you a seat.
Cost: 5.00-15.00 sliding scale donation

Location: Drawing room, upstairs
Instructor contact: Rita Gregory at ritapaulgregory@gmail.com
About Rita Gregory:
I was born and raised in Ukraine, where I lived until I was 29. My journey with the Ukrainian language has been significant, especially given the historical challenges we’ve faced in preserving our culture and identity. For me, the Ukrainian language is a vital part of our existence and heritage. I am passionate about spreading my knowledge of Ukrainian and helping others appreciate its importance.

Chess Club
2026-01-28 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-02-04 18:00 - 19:00
Make new friends and play chess! This group meets weekly in the main room. All levels welcome.
Materials Required: None
Location: Main Room
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged.
How to register:Drop-in.
Instructor Contact Information: Joegumina@hotmail.com
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Vegan Potluck
2026-01-29 18:30 - 20:00
Calling all vegans and/or vegan curious! Join us for a community potluck. Please bring ONLY vegan dishes to share.
Materials required: Vegan covered dish or dessert to share. Please list ALL ingredients on notecard to set next to dishes. Ice water provided. We suggest bringing your own cutlery and plates to minimize waste.
Cost: Free community event
How to register: Drop-in, come a bit early if you wish to order drinks at tea counter.
Location: Classroom/meditation space, 2nd floor. Overflow seating available in Parlor and Japanese seating, 2nd floor

Fiber Arts Meetup
2026-01-30 17:00 - 19:00 | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, TN, 37604
Fiber Arts Meetup Do you crochet, knit, sew, cross stitch, or otherwise create any kind of fiber art that you can fit in a bag and carry with you? Then you are warmly invited to come and enjoy a session of sipping and crafting with us! Open to all skill levels in any portable fiber art, this meetup is an opportunity to spend some time making progress on your project of choice while connecting with fellow fiber artists. This meetup can double as a skillshare, so if you are great at something and willing to share your knowledge, or you’re seeking a welcoming place to learn, we would love to have you!
Location: Parlor, 2nd floor
Materials Required: Bring your own project
Cost: Food/beverage purchases encouraged OR 5.00 donation at tea counter to support nonprofit.
Registration: Drop-in Instructor Contact: Krystal Clark freshstartfiberart@yahoo.com

PoetTEA; open mic poetry night
2026-02-03 18:30 - 20:30
Join members of the Poetry Society of Tennessee and the Philosopher’s House Writer’s Workshop for an evening of poetry and community at this monthly open mic night.
First Tuesdays of each month from 6:30-8:30PM, with open mic sign-ups starting at 6:15PM. Spots are limited to 4 minutes per poet.
Co-hosted by various members of the Poetry Society of Tennessee.
Also be sure to check out our Poetry Writer’s Workshop held every other Friday at 3:30 PM at the Philosopher’s House if you would enjoy the opportunity to share your poetry in a more intimate setting and receive feedback. For more information about the Poetry Society of Tennessee, check out their website.
How to register: Drop-in
Location: Fireplace/living room, 1st floor
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged to support teahouse
Organizer contact: Contact Kayla Nichols with any questions: nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com / 423-571-2949.

Advanced Level Japanese Language Table
2026-02-05 17:00 - 18:00
Come practice Japanese! This immersive group includes native English-speaking community members, native Japanese-speaking community members, and ETSU students in the Japanese language program. No expectations, just a relaxed time to practice your Japanese! While group members have varying levels of Japanese proficiency, all conversation will be in Japanese only, no English allowed!

Location: The Meditation Room, 2nd floor
Materials Required: None, conversation-level proficiency in Japanese
Time: First Thursday each month, 5-6pm
Cost: $2 suggested donation at tea counter or support with drink/food purchase.
How to register: Drop-in only. No registration.
Instructor contact information: Junko Arnold, tezuka@etsu.edu
