On Sunday, 23rd November 2025, the Deutsch-Englische Gesellschaft Bayreuth e.V. organised a delightful and engaging Jane Austen Event Day at Bayreuth’s Bürgerbegegnungsstätte bringing together fans of the beloved British author for an afternoon filled with literature, socialising, and Regency-era fun.

The event, which was free to attend, welcomed a diverse crowd of Austen admirers, both long-time fans and newcomers, to explore the life and works of the author behind such iconic novels as Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. Guests had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Jane Austen through a variety of activities, including readings, crafting, and dance, all with a distinct Regency flavour.

The day began at 1 pm with a warm welcome to attendees, followed by an afternoon of engaging events. Participants had the chance to take part in Regency-inspired craft activities, expertly led by Lisa and Lisa. Michelle captivated the audience with her readings, bringing Austen’s words to life and offering fresh insights into her most famous works.

The afternoon also featured a delightful teatime with scones, cakes, and sandwiches, creating the perfect setting for socialising over a cup of tea. Michelle’s presentation on Jane Austen in Modern Media was another highlight, in which she explored the lasting pop cultural influence of Austen’s work. The presentation sparked lively discussion, particularly about the iconic wet shirt scene from the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, which remains a memorable moment for many Austen fans. This playful conversation revealed the enduring appeal of Austen’s characters and themes, and how they continue to resonate in today’s pop culture.

A “Dance Like Jane” session allowed guests to experience the elegance of Regency-style dance. It was conducted by Winfried Bloche leader of the dance group “Spettacolo Cortigiano” in Bayreuth. The Jane Austen Quiz, led by Sabine, tested the guests’ knowledge of the author’s life and works, followed by a fun tombola drawing with . The evening concluded with a Gin-Tasting experience, hosted by Sandra from Spirits Trail Creußen, where guests sampled a selection of gins while learning from Sandra’s expertise. The delicious cocktail provided a relaxed and enjoyable end to a fantastic day.

The DEG’s first Jane Austen event was a resounding success, filled with laughter, learning, and a true sense of community. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the wit, wisdom, and enduring charm of Jane Austen on the occasion of her 250th birthday. The Deutsch-Englische Gesellschaft Bayreuth e.V. would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to making the day so memorable. We look forward to hosting more literary events in the future!