Known for her sharp wit, poignant social commentary and epic romance tropes, Dec. 16 marks the 250th year since Jane Austen’s birth. Producing six novels out of her house in Chawton, Austen achieved literary fame posthumously for her works that explore universal, timeless themes and beloved characters. The Daily Texan compiled a list of five local events to celebrate the literary icon’s birthday. 

Jane Austen 250th Anniversary Celebration – 9828 Great Hills Trail, Suite 650

For a bonnet-and-tea-worthy bash, join the Jane Austen Society of North America, the South Central Texas chapter, at La Madeleine Great Hills on Saturday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The celebration will feature a presentation on JASNA’s 2025 summer trip to England, food and a white elephant gift exchange. The invitation encourages attendees to wear Regency attire and bring an inexpensive wrapped gift if they would like to participate in the gift exchange. 

Jane Austin Improv – Fallout Theater at 616 Lavaca St.

As a theater aficionado herself, Austen’s spirit shines on through Jane Austin Improv. For a night filled with laughter, social manners and courtship complexities, head to Fallout Theater to enjoy “an hour-long comedy feast.” Catch the event on Dec. 7 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., with tickets priced at $16 online and at the door. 

The Crafty Adult: Victorian & Regency Holiday Ornaments – 5500 Menchaca Rd.

To celebrate Austen’s creativity and artistic abilities, consider heading to Austin Public Library’s Menchaca Road Branch on Dec. 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Whether an experienced crafter or new to the skill, participants can learn the basics of how to make their own holiday ornament reminiscent of the Regency and Victorian eras. 

Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday Celebration – 1800 S. Fifth St. 

Fans of the 2005 “hand flex” scene can enjoy a viewing of Joe Wright’s “Pride & Prejudice” at Austin Public Library’s Twin Oaks Branch on Dec. 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The library will host a celebration featuring trivia, a tea party and an embroidery craft activity in addition to the screening.

An Austentatious Birthday Bash! – 5500 Menchaca Rd. 

To celebrate one of Austen’s other most famous works, head out to Austin Public Library’s Menchaca Road Branch on Dec. 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The elegant, after-hours 18+ event includes trivia, a tea party, photobooth, crafts and a viewing of Ang Lee’s “Sense and Sensibility.” The library invites participants to wear Regency-themed costumes.