Learn to Play Mancala -Feb. 7
Looking for some fun winter activities for the whole family? Celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth with us and learn how to play mancala! Join us Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site (29 Warburton Ave. Yonkers, NY) for this fun game for all ages. This FREE program is part of our Historical Games series.
The oldest game in our series, and one of the oldest in the world, Mancala dates back to 3rd century Egypt, and has been adopted all over the world, including throughout Africa. Originally using seeds or stones and rows of holes or pits in the earth, and possibly based on ancient food storage, the game was adapted to wooden boards using stones or marbles. A two-player game, the players take turns counting out stones into the holes, with opportunities to capture your opponent’s stones! Known as “count and capture,” the goal of the game is to fill your storage pit with your own and your opponent’s stones. This simple game is great for all ages.
Other historical games will also be available for self-guided play.
This program is open to all ages and is free for everyone! Pre-registration is recommended. Call 914-965-4027 or email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov to register. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site First Saturdays Historical Games Series is part of the New York State “Unplug and Play” and “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiatives to help children and teens connect offline.
