MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — In a city growing faster than most, some newcomers arrive without friends or family. A unique gathering in Miami Beach is helping residents make connections one roll of the dice at a time.

Backgammon Social, a meet-up hosted at hotels and local venues, invites anyone to play—or learn—backgammon while meeting new people and supporting local businesses.

“I walked in by myself a little timid,” said Liza Nosova, a participant. “And this really is a way of bonding. And yeah, we all hang out, have fun playing backgammon.”

The concept was created earlier this year by Gina Macropulos and Eugenia Camargo.

“We really wanted to bring people together in a way that was different and genuine,” said Macropulos. “And yeah, we have people from ages 25 up until 75 years old from all different parts of the world, different parts of Miami, different cultures, different religions all coming together to play this game, which is actually rooted in Greek and Middle Eastern culture.”

Every event is hosted at a different venue, from rooftop bars and Little Havana restaurants to beachfront locations. Macropulos says the variety not only keeps the game fresh but also helps attendees explore the city.

Participants say the social side of backgammon is just as important as strategy.

The social side of backgammon, is just as important as the strategy on the board.

“You have a little bit of strategy, you have a little bit of luck, you have a little bit of magic,” said participant Stavros Triant.

Magic that happens when people are off their phone, making new friends, and learning a new game.

For some, the gatherings are even family affairs.

“I’m here with my dad actually, so it’s even deeper than that because I’m here bonding with my dad. It’s been awesome,” said a participant.

Nosova reflected on the experience:

“I made great friends and very glad that I came. And maybe that’s more about what life is about than anything else,” she said.

The events are ticketed and open to all. Organizers say the idea has expanded beyond Miami, with Backgammon Social events now launching in California, Pennsylvania, and London, with hopes to eventually reach every U.S. state.

Click here to view Backgammon Social’s event calendar.

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