A year-long programme of events to celebrate the life and works of one of literature’s most beloved authors has been launched. To mark the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, Basingstoke and Deane will host a diverse programme of events, exhibitions and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Hampshire district is playing host to the year-long programme because it is the place where the Pride and Prejudice and Emma author was born and spent the first 25 years of her life.
Austen was born in Steventon on December 16, 1775, and the year of celebration will culminate in a special event on Tuesday, December 16, at St Nicholas’ Church in Steventon, exactly 250 years since the famous author was born. Basingstoke and Deane’s cabinet member for sports, leisure and culture Kerry Morrow said: “Jane Austen was born in the borough and spent more than half her life here while drafting some of her greatest works and we are proud of her strong connection to Basingstoke and Deane. “Together with other organisations across the borough, we have been working hard to create a fantastic programme of projects to celebrate Jane’s legacy.
“We are excited to showcase everything on offer as part of a dedicated Jane Austen 250 page on the Love Basingstoke website. “From exhibitions to a country fair, self-guided walking tours to regency dancing, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in Jane Austen’s world throughout 2025, as we mark 250 years since her birt.