From Friday 18 to Sunday 20 September, Riccione is hosting the “10th Austen Sense and Sensibility Meeting”, the tenth national gathering organised by the Jane Austen Sofa and Carpet Club, dedicated to the British writer who lived between the 18th and 19th centuries, famous for her social novels centred on marriage, social classes and irony, and to her celebrated novel “Sense and Sensibility”.

This significant milestone celebrates the history of the event, recalling its first edition in 2011 and offering a packed programme of cultural events, re-enactments and social gatherings.

The festival will officially kick off on the evening of Friday 18 September, at 9.00 pm, at the Cinepalace in Riccione with a special screening of “Sense and Sensibility”, the 1995 masterpiece directed by Ang Lee and starring Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman.

Saturday 19 September will take place against the backdrop of the Castello degli Agolanti, which for the occasion will be transformed into Donwell Abbey, the famous country estate owned by George Knightley in Jane Austen’s novel *Emma*. The day’s programme is in perfect Regency style: in the morning, in-depth discussions on *Sense and Sensibility*, a literary quiz and a light lunch; in the afternoon, a “Strawberry Party” in the castle gardens with artisanal tea time, an exclusive exhibition of period costumes and memorabilia curated by Raffaella Pritelli, a mini historical dance workshop, readings at sunset and live portraiture. Participation requires prior registration: ilcubdijaneausten@gmail.com – WhatsApp 3398862044

On Sunday 20 September, the event will get into full swing with the evocative “Promenade Austen” in period costumes: participants will parade in historical attire, setting off from the heart of the town centre, along Viale Ceccarini, to reach the ballroom of the Grand Hotel Des Bains. The parade is also open to anyone wishing to take part; meet at Piazzale Roma at 9.30 am.

On Sunday 20 September, the day continues at the Grand Hotel Des Bains with the “Gran Ballo Matinée”, organised by Maestro Paolo Di Segni, followed by a light lunch, the “Literary Afternoon” featuring cultural talks by Giuseppe Ierolli, Giulio Iovine and Francesca Ghittoni, and concluding with the traditional five o’clock tea at the hotel. Participation is by registration only: ilcubdijaneausten@gmail.com – WhatsApp 3398862044