This year marks 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen, one of the most beloved authors in English literature. From the sharp wit of Pride and Prejudice to the quiet strength of Persuasion, her novels continue to enchant readers, inspire adaptations and spark creative projects.
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate this special anniversary, here are five ideas to bring a little Austen magic into your year.
1. Host a Regency inspired reading tea
Why not invite a few friends for an afternoon of tea, cake and conversation about your favourite Austen novels? You could even add a touch of roleplay by adding dance cards or invitations to set the scene. My Netherfield Ball dance card bookmark was inspired by this very idea and you can find it here.
Alternatively, if you're looking for a quick way to add some Austen magic, why not download these printable tea bag envelopes from my Etsy shop? They're an affordable and super easy way to add some Regency charm to your party.
2. Visit a Jane Austen location
If you’re in the UK, Bath is the perfect place to step into Austen’s world. You can stroll through the Assembly Rooms, sip tea at the Pump Rooms or visit the Jane Austen Centre. If you’re further afield, you could take a virtual tour or rewatch one of the many adaptations filmed in Bath.
3. Revisit the adaptations
Whether it’s the 1995 BBC miniseries, the 2005 film with Keira Knightley or even modern retellings like Clueless, Austen’s stories have been adapted in countless ways. Pick your favourite and enjoy a rewatch, or better yet gather friends for a Pride and Prejudice watch party.
4. Try a creative Austen project
Austen’s novels are full of rich details that lend themselves to crafts. You could make a hand-sewn Regency style bookmark, try your hand at calligraphy with a favourite Austen quote, or even design your own fictional ephemera inspired by her world (you don't have to make a whole shop dedicated to fictional ephemera, though!)
5. Bring Austen into your daily reading life
Sometimes the simplest way to celebrate is to bring a little Austen into your everyday. Pick up one of her novels or slip an Austen inspired bookmark into your current read as a daily reminder of her timeless wit. You can explore my Austen designs here.
Jane Austen’s works continue to connect readers across centuries and her 250th birthday is a wonderful reminder of how powerful stories can be. Whether you’re sipping tea, rewatching an adaptation or turning the pages of your favourite novel, there are endless ways to join the celebrations.
How will you be marking Austen 250? I’d love to hear your ideas and you can share them with me over on Instagram.