Jane Austen Evening to form part of annual literary festival in Letterkenny

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Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter’s Donnan Harvey has confirmed this year’s main event during the annual Jane Austen literary festival we will be a special Jane Austen Event in Castle Grove County House on Saturday, 17th October at 8pm.

The Cathedral Quarter secretary stated: “We are going for a Jane Austen theme night. We want to give people an opportunity to step back into the elegance and charm of the Regency era, and enjoy an evening dedicated to celebrating the life, works, and enduring legacy of one of literature\'s most beloved authors. We promise to make it an unique experience.”


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Hosted at the picturesque Castle Grove Country House, Donnan Harvey says this special event will combine fine dining, entertainment, and literary appreciation in a setting that reflects the atmosphere of Austen\'s novels. Guests will enjoy a Jane Austen-inspired three-course menu, thoughtfully designed to evoke the tastes and traditions of the Regency Period.

He explained: “The evening promises a blend of cultural entertainment and social engagement, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the world of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma, and other Austen classics.

“Whether you are a lifelong admirer of Jane Austen\'s work or simply enjoy literary-themed events, the night offers a unique opportunity to experience the romance, wit, and refinement associated with her stories as we celebrate Donegal\'s unique links with the world famous writer.”

And to make sure those attending get into the swing of things there will be a prize for the best dressed person on the night.

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There are a large number of connections between Jane Austen and Letterkenny - Three nieces of the famous novelist spent a substantial part of their lives around Letterkenny. Her niece, Cassandra Knight married Lord George Hill and the couple lived at Gortlee House on the outskirts of the town. Cassandra died in 1842 and is buried with her husband in the graveyard of Conwal Parish Church.  After Cassandra\'s death, her sister Louisa Knight came from England to help care for the children. She later married Lord George Hill herself.  Another sister, Marianne Knight, also spent much of her life in Donegal. Louisa and Marianne are buried near Ramelton.

Donnan added: “Sheila Clancy O\'Donnell from Circular Dress Collaborative is offering free attire repair and repurpose advice along with 10% off any garment purchased for the event. And we are also very grateful to La Maison for the sponsorship for the main Jane Austen event of our Literary Festival.”

Tickets cost €60 and be purchased from Castle Grove Country House on (074) 915 1118, La Maison on Canal Road and Circular Dress Collaborative on Upper Main Street or from Donnan Harvey on (086) 345 2457.


Tickets can also be purchased on Eventbrite and there will be a complimentary bus from and to Letterkenny Town Centre.'
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