Bowling Green “Downton Abbey” fans have the chance to see the premiere of Season 3 of the show before it actually airs.

WKYU-PBS, with a sponsorship from the Warren County Public Library, is hosting a special free preview screening of the premiere of on Jan. 5 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Kentucky Building.

“Downton Abbey,” for those unfamiliar with the series, is a British-American drama that focuses on early 20th-century England. The show depicts the lives of British aristocracy and the working class during that time period.

Jean Secrest, corporate support officer for WKYU-PBS and WKU Public Radio, said the show offers great insight into the lives of turn-of-the-century British aristocracy and their servants.

“The storyline keeps you spellbound, the costumes are amazing, and the acting is second to none,” Secrest said.

In addition to the hour-long Season 3 preview, there will be a costume contest, “tea-time” and gift giveaways.

Barbara Deeb, Emmy-award-winning host of “Outlook” on WKYU-PBS and the event’s host, will be attending in costume. She said an award will be given to the person with the best “Downton”-inspired costume.

“There is one key element that we will be looking for during the costume contest, and that is authenticity,” Deeb said.

Each season of “Downton Abbey” spans several years, with the clothing in seasons 1 and 2 reflecting the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Linda Oldham, WKYU-TV program manager, is coordinating the event.

“The costumes on ‘Downton Abbey’ are fabulous and have influenced contemporary fashion design, including the women’s fall/winter 2012-13 collection by Ralph Lauren,” Oldham said.

Oldham said she is especially impressed by the size and diversity of “Downton Abbey”‘s audience.

“The show has been a phenomenal success, reaching audiences of all ages — students in particular,” said Oldham. “After Season 2 ended with an exciting cliffhanger, we wanted to give people a sneak preview of Season 3.”

Deeb said she shares Oldham’s excitement about “Downton Abbey”’s broad following and overall quality.

“This particular show truly runs the gamut,” Deeb said. “It’s just a beautiful story well told.”

To request free tickets, which are required to attend, call 800-599-2424 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m, or email [email protected].