Held on Sunday Afternoon at 1:00 p.m. in the Clubhouse
In West, Texas, Czech heritage and the beloved domino game “42” are part of the celebration. Often called the “national game of Texas,” this trick-taking favorite brings friends, families, and neighbors together in community halls, homes, and local diners.
Czech settlers who came to Central Texas in the late 1800s brought cherished card and parlor games such as Taroky. Through the generations, game-playing became a joyful part of community life, and the strategy of “42” fit right in with the love of European trick-taking games.
Invented in 1887 in Garner, Texas, “42” began with a clever twist: two boys, not allowed by their strict parents to play cards, created a trick-taking game using double-six dominoes instead.
Played by four people in two partnerships, “42” is all about winning tricks and enjoying friendly competition. Its name comes from the 42 points available in each hand: seven trick points plus 35 points from “counter” dominoes.
Across Central and South Texas, towns with proud Czech and German roots have long celebrated the game with regional “42” tournaments. Here at WESTFEST, the 42 domino tournament is a crowd favorite and a spirited tradition.
Join the fun in the Clubhouse on Sunday at 1 p.m. for this year’s tournament. Space is limited to 20 teams, so if spots are still available, you can sign up here
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