Great news, Downton Abbey fans! ITV has ordered a fourth series of the hit British costume drama, bringing the Crawley family back into our homes and hearts in autumn 2013.

It’s not just Americans who have something to be grateful for this Thanksgiving weekend, as Downton Abbey fans the world over can celebrate ITV’s long-expected and recently-delivered renewal of the addictive aristocratic drama. Writer and showrunner Julian Fellowes had previously expressed confidence that the show would return after series 3, but the official news (by way of The Hollywood Reporter) is certainly cause for excitement among Downton‘s devoted fans.

The fourth series is tentatively set to begin filming in February of next year, with a premier airing that autumn. A two-hour Christmas special is also scheduled to cap off the fourth series. ITV’s director of drama Laura Mackie promises the excitement and surprise that the series’ devotees have come to expect. “Julian Fellowes and the production team… never rest on their laurels,” she says. The creative team “have exciting plans for the fourth series.” Executive producer Gareth Neame also hinted that new faces may feature in the series, as well as “more drama, comedy, love, hatred, jealousy, rivalry, ambition, despair and romance.

News of renewal will be especially welcome for British fans, who are currently waiting on news about the show’s second Christmas special. There has been precious little news about the two hour episode, though The Radio Times has indicated that at least part of the story will be set in the chilly Scottish Highlands.

As for American viewers, Downton Abbey‘s third series will premier Jan. 6th on PBS. In the meanwhile, American fans can check out “Downton Abbey Revisited”, a retrospective clip show with behind-the-scenes interviews and sneak peaks at upcoming events which airs this Sunday the 25th at 8 p.m.