To the occasional visitor it might have seemed like just another bar, but to its regular patrons – and believe me, they came in their masses and for more than two decades too – The Alley was a home away from home; a place to hook up with friends on a regular basis. It was that kind of bar where most people knew each other as much as they knew the DJs and bar staff. It was, as the cliché goes, one big happy family.

Writing about it now makes it seem like it all happened a long time ago, but in truth, The Alley as we knew it only ended in 2007. Many still refer to it as a unique hangout, and indeed it was, so it is hardly surprising that, when the slightest suggestion of an Alley reunion party was leaked on Facebook, the response was overwhelming.

The Alley Reloaded is the theme of the party in question, and with its Facebook group currently boasting close to 3,500 members, it’s a surefire guarantee that Henry J Bean’s in St Julian’s, the venue chosen for the special night, will be buzzing with the same spirit and rocking tunes that made The Alley such a successful hangout for so many years.

The place will be revamped for the night to replicate The Alley vibe, while the DJ line-up of Stones, Tony Tony and Michael Bugeja is gearing up to dish out the best rock ’n’ roll tunes. Add to that a state-of-the-art Void Sound System, and all that remains is start counting down the days for the big night.

The Alley Reloaded is happening on December 14. Tickets are being snapped up fast and there will be none at the door, but you might still find some at Privè, Sliema, Nara Camice, Sliema, Conquest Pub, Senglea, Muddy Waters, St Julian’s and The 4 Seasons Wine Bar , Birkirkara.

For more information, look up The Alley Reloaded on Facebook.