A Social Event for Puzzle Lovers & Future Friends
Sunday, July 12, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Best Friends - 901 San Pablo Ave Albany, CA 94706
Puzzical Chairs
12:30-2:30pm (Registration Required - Please arrive at 12pm for check-in)
Looking to meet new people but hate awkward small talk? We’ve got the perfect pieces to solve that. Welcome to Puzzical Chairs, a unique, zero-pressure social event designed to help you connect with fellow community members over a shared love of puzzles. Think of it like musical chairs, but way more relaxed and with absolutely no running for the last seat!
Arrive & Mix: When you check in, you'll be handed a schedule card and a random puzzle piece (which doubles as your ticket for our raffle!).
The Rotation: You’ll be randomly assigned to a table with three other players and a mystery 500-piece puzzle. Every 30 minutes, you will be cued to switch! You’ll rotate to a brand-new table and a new puzzle, immediately teaming up with a fresh group of three potential new friends.
The After-Party: After 2 hours of structured "Puzzical Chairs," the clock stops and you are free to hang out, grab a drink, and stick around to finish your favorite puzzle with the people you met!
Spaces are strictly limited to ensure perfect table rotations. Grab your spot today and let’s piece together some new friendships!
Tickets: $15 (Includes entry into the game and raffle!)
Skill Level: All levels welcome! This is a strictly non-competitive, collaborative event focused on fun and socializing.
Free Community Play & Puzzle Swap
12-4pm (Open to the Public)
Casual Puzzling (Free!): Not into the idea of switching mid-puzzle? No problem. We’ll have open tables with a variety of puzzles for you to work through to completion.
Puzzle Swap (Free!): Refresh your home collection! Bring a gently used puzzle you've already mastered and trade it for a new challenge at our swap table.
The Fuel
Mad Oak features a massive draft list, a full bar for craft cocktails, and delicious food to keep your energy up while you hunt for those elusive edge pieces.
Important Info
-
Ages: Please note that Best Friends is a 21+ venue.
-
Registration: While casual puzzling and the swap are free and open to all, registration is required to play Puzzical Chairs. Secure your spot via the link below!
