'Downton' life

Wednesday, Dec. 28 — If you cannot wait until Jan. 8 to see the new season of PBS' popular "Downton Abbey," WKAR-TV is happy to help out.

You can get an early look at the latest escapades and challenges of Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery and Emmy winner Maggie Smith at a sneak preview at 7 p.m. Jan. 4 at WKAR Theatre 145 in Michigan State University's Communication Arts & Sciences building. Admission is free, but online pre-registration is required for seating availability.

Tea and crumpets will be served — courtesy of Schuler Books & Music's Chapbook Cafe — and attendees can qualify for a drawing for a copy of "The World of 'Downton Abbey" book. Everyone will receive a special commemorative gift.

Airdates for the six episodes of the second season on WKAR are Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29, and on Feb. 5, 12 and 19. For more information, clips and details on the show, visit the PBS webpage.

To register for the screening, visit WKAR's "Downton Abbey" page, or contact Becky Scheel at (517) 432-3120, ext. 354.