You Are Cordially Invited to an Evening of Grace and Celebration

In Honour of Miss Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday

Step into the elegance of the Regency era and join us for a most enchanting evening as we celebrate the life, wit, and enduring legacy of the beloved authoress, Miss Jane Austen. Whether you come as a Bennet, a Knightley, or simply as yourself with a love for good company and fine storytelling, you will be most welcome at our Grand Jane Austen Ball.

Attire: Regency dress is heartily encouraged, though not required. Come adorned in empire waists, cravats, gloves, and bonnets—or simply in your best evening attire—and prepare for a night of delightful diversions.

The evening’s entertainments shall include:

• Regency Dance & Live Music – Join in elegant country dances led by skilled instructor, David Hadwiger of NM FolkMADS, accompanied by live musicians from the Albuquerque Philharmonic Orchestra who will bring the ballroom to life with the sounds of Austen’s world.

• Personalized, Calligraphy Bookmarks – Escribiente Calligraphy Society will be joining us for the evening creating personalized, bookmarks for your reading enjoyment. 

• Refreshments – Raise your cup to Jane and enjoy some delectable treats as we celebrate Miss Austen's birthday.

• Photo Opportunities – Capture a keepsake at our Jane Appreciation Wall or beneath the twinkling Austen Tree. Strike your best genteel pose and let the spirit of the evening shine through. Feast your eyes on the beautiful florals graciously prepared by Lucero Luxury Florals. 

• Character Guess Who – Match wits in a charming guessing game where you must deduce which Austen character is described by a series of clever clues.

• A Most Agreeable Scavenger Hunt – Mingle with guests in pursuit of hidden details and social discoveries. This lighthearted quest will have you conversing, complimenting, and uncovering Austen-inspired secrets throughout the ballroom.

•  Card Writing for Community Elders – Share the warmth of the evening beyond the ballroom. Choose a quote, write a kind note, and help us send a little literary joy to members of our community who will cherish your words.

Whether you are an ardent admirer of Emma, Persuasion, or Pride and Prejudice, or newly discovering the delights of Miss Austen’s world, you will find yourself among friends, music, and merriment. This is your invitation to step back in time and celebrate a woman whose words continue to charm, provoke, and endure.

Registration is required. Your invitation will be checked at the door. Doors open from 5:30-5:45 pm. Punctuality is polite!