Le Bon Ton
Rules for the Pleasure Garden
As previously described, we dedicate our festivities entirely to the "Le Bon Genre" format. Rather than counting steps, we jointly create an atmospheric and lively illusion of the Regency era within the magnificent backdrop of Eichstätt. The Pleasure Garden in the Court Garden of the Summer Residence offers you the perfect space to leave everyday life behind and immerse yourself in the world of Jane Austen with joy, lightness, and esprit.
The true centerpiece of this experience is the Bon Ton – the art of cultivated encounter, witty conversation, and noble bearing at the gaming table as well as while promenading. During the communal pursuit of fortune and the carefree open-air picnic, you will naturally internalize the historical etiquette to which this epoch inspires us. Thus, you will let the ball night conclude harmoniously within the intimate circle of society.
Dress Code around 1800
Historical attire in the style of the Regency and Empire is desired for our communal gatherings. Absolute perfection is not demanded; the joy of appearance and respect for the epoch are paramount. The following guidelines serve for fine distinction:
De Promenade for the Lady
The wardrobe for the stroll is characterized by the typical Empire silhouette. A high-waisted chemise dress of fine cambric or muslin forms the foundation. A spencer (short jacket) or a pelisse (long coat) is the correct choice for the promenade in Bavarian weather. Accessories such as a bonnet, long gloves, and a small reticule complete the ensemble.
De Promenade for the Gentleman
Elegant simplicity is the order of the day. A tailcoat or redingote over a waistcoat, paired with either knee breeches and stockings or more modern pantaloons. A top hat or bicorne, an artfully tied cravat, and a walking cane bestow upon the appearance the requisite dignity for the city park.
Regulations & Etiquette
Etiquette at the Picnic
- The Art of Gallantry: Meet all guests of the gathering with that timeless gallantry that makes the social interaction of Jane Austen's world so incomparable.
- The Play of Society: Give yourself over unreservedly to your playful spirit and plunge into the amusement! Forging new acquaintances and refined conversation upon the lawns and paths are the true spirit of Le Bon Genre.
- Composure in Victory as in Defeat: A true gentleman and a true lady of the Regency era always maintain their composure – one smiles subtly, whether fortune in gaming favors them or turns away.
- The Picnic: Every participant is most politely requested to procure and bring their own victuals, blankets, and baskets for the picnic upon the lawns.
- The Dances: In the pavilion, we shall celebrate together the quadrilles and cotillions learned in the preceding days. Maintain the acquired maintien.
House Rules and Mementos
- Photographs and Court Painters: In order not to disturb the historical atmosphere in the park, we ask that mobile telephones be silenced and used only exceedingly discreetly. As we dispense with an official court photographer, we are delighted by every guest who shares the most beautiful moments in the shared photo album.
Booking & Organization
- Ticket Sales and the Foundation of the Ball Days: To ensure the execution of the festivities, we politely request your timely booking from the start of advance sales on September 15. As the Grand Jane Austen Ball forms the center of our days together, the realization of the accompanying divertissements is bound to its occurrence. A prerequisite for this is reaching the minimum number of 50 participants for Jane Austen by February 15, 2027.
- Divertissements and Individual Registrations: Please note that specific minimum participant numbers also apply to individual program items (the Pleasure Garden requires 30 registrations). Should a program item not reach this number, only that specific event will be cancelled.
- Accommodation & Concierge Service: Utilize the new exclusive and complimentary concierge service. Most hotel rooms are reserved for us until March 15, 2027!
- Hotel Arrangement: As our Pleasure Garden continues into the afternoon, we ask you to inquire at the hotel in good time before arrival regarding a later check-out.
- Culinary Matters and Own Tab: Those who wish to picnic must please procure and bring all necessary victuals and receptacles themselves. Apart from the specially created welcome refreshment and the flat-rate water, everything must be provided by oneself.
- Please note our booking phases: Until the minimum number of participants is secured, we preferentially offer our comprehensive event packages. As soon as the hosting is assured, the package offer will close and henceforth only individual tickets for the remaining program items can be purchased.
Note on Refunds
Should the minimum number of participants unexpectedly not be reached and the event have to be cancelled from our side, the fee paid will naturally be fully refunded to you without deductions.
Our Compendium of Elegance
For a consummate appearance around 1800
Consummate Toilette
Complexion, Coiffure & the secret of fragrances
Authentic Fashion & Attire
Empire line, noble fabrics & consummate cuts
Distinguished Gestures & Expression
Posture, reverence & the language of the fan
Come & Be a part of it
Shared Photo Album
Share your most beautiful shots of the ball days with the society
Accommodation & Hotels
Complimentary concierge service & room blocks until March 15, 2027
Registration & Ticket Sales
Advance sales start on September 15