The Grand Ole Opry will return to its former home at the Ryman Auditorium for a four-month run beginning in November.

Since leaving the Ryman for the bigger, better-equipped Grand Ole Opry House in 1974, the popular show has made regular pilgrimages back to the downtown Nashville location. But this year they've tacked on an additional two months to their regular stay.

''There's definitely something special about Opry performances in the Ryman,'' said Pete Fisher, general manager of the Opry. ''We are particularly excited to this year be spending the holidays in downtown Nashville."

The Ryman housed the Opry from 1943-73, during which time such legends as Patsy Cline, Marty Robbins and Hank Williams performed on the hallowed stage.