December is the time when we gather together to celebrate Jane Austen's birthday!  While it is always a festive event for the life of Jane Austen, being in December also reminds us of the holidays. Our program will be a look at Christmas celebrations at the time of Jane Austen. As we all know, Christmas Trees were not the norm until after Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, and he brought his German traditions to England. And while Christmas was acknowledged and celebrated, it was a little more low-key in 1800. RC and raconteur, Agnes Gawne, will regale us with stories of Christmas traditions Jane might have experienced.

We will raise our glasses to toast Jane Austen with sherry or cider. As ever, Regency attire is always admired, never required.

Each of us brings a plate to share for a Pot Luck feast! Please bring your dish already plated, ready to serve with your serving cutlery. Savory items are encouraged as much as sweets. 

The Fireside Room features a pass-through to a full kitchen. We may use the refrigerator and stove, but must bring our own utensils and plates. We will supply paper plates,  cups, cutlery and napkins.