As September approaches, those of us who love Jane Austen begin to look towards Bath and the annual Jane Austen Festival. Luckily for us, one member of the Jane Austen Society of Ireland, Samantha, has kindly agreed to share her thoughts on and experiences of the Jane Austen Festival in Bath. But reader beware! After reading this you will be more determined than ever to go along too...
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I've been a massive Jane Austen Fan for the last 31 years and was delighted to discover the Jane Austen Festival in Bath back in 2008 and haven't missed a festival since!
The festival takes place the 2nd/3rd week in Sept each year for nine days in Bath (this year it starts on the 13th Sept).
A core group attend the festival every year from the UK, US, Australia and all over Europe and it's great to meet everyone, admire each others costumes and generally catch up!
The week allows Janites to attend theatricals, balls, soirees (I cleaned up at Loo on the card tables last visit!), it also gives the opportunity to learn new skills such as, how to create the perfect hair style and make turbans in the Regency style.
There have been some interesting talks from the likes of Amanda Vickery and this year's speaker will be John Mullan, Professor of English at University College London and author of "What Matters in Jane Austen?". Events such as Rummaging through the Reticule and Undressing Mr. Darcy means there is something for everyone at this festival.
One of the highlights is The Grand Regency Costumed Promenade through the city of Bath, which has approx 600 attendees (last year the streets were cordoned off; it was on par with a St Patrick's Day Parade in Bath!) and finishes up with music and dancing at Parade Gardens. It's a magical nine days for any Janeite, I wouldn't miss it for the world!
Samantha.
JASI
