YEAR BEGINS WITH 250th JANE AUSTEN CELEBRATION

LEBANON, OH -- In addition to the 250th year of the United States, this is also the celebration year for the birth of author, Jane Austen. 2026 for the Western Ohio, Jane Austen Society of North America chapter began January 11 at the Armstrong Events Center in Lebanon, with a 12th Night Ball. 

Members and friends from Lebanon, Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus and as far away as Pittsburgh were in attendance for the event. The evening began with a buffet dinner followed by music and dancing and traditional card games of the era including “whist” and “loo”. 

Authentic period Dancing

The 12th Night Ball goes back to the time of Jane Austen when Christmas celebrations were ended on the 12th night or Epiphany. This year due to the calendar and New Year’s the official 12th Night , January 6 was not observed in favor of a later Saturday.

Whist game

The festivities were just as jolly and fun with a “Queen” being selected to reign over the evening, joyful dancing and the fun card games, which brought together old friends and new. It was a grand way to start the year in Warren County

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