Unlock the magic of Harry Potter Day at Universal Orlando and bring the wizarding world home with enchanting tips for celebrations.
Formerly known as Harry Potter Book Night, Harry Potter Book Day has rebranded to ensure that, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can celebrate any time of the day, or night, that suits you. Despite the slight name change, the vibe is the same. And you are planning on visiting Universal Orlando today, here are some fun ways you can celebrate!
When is Harry Potter Book Day and what is the theme?
Harry Potter Book Day takes place on the 12th October, in whatever time zone you find yourself in. Remember, though, that you can celebrate on any day that suits you after the 12th October too!
Every year, Harry Potter Book Day comes with a theme so you can cater your parties and events accordingly. This year, it’s MAGICAL PLACES: think Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, the Ministry of Magic… or of course, the ultimate magical place: Hogwarts itself. When planning your celebrations, see if you can bring your favorite wizarding world location to life as part of the fun.
Now, how about celebrating at Universal Orlando? Universal Orlando does not host an official event, but you can immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter in both Islands of Adventure and Universal Orlando. Explore the magical village of Hogsmeade, visit Hogwarts Castle, and experience thrilling rides like the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Don’t forget to savor butterbeer and try magical treats throughout the way.
Bringing Your Harry Potter Books to Universal Orlando
Bringing your treasured Harry Potter books to Universal Orlando can add an extra layer of enchantment to your visit. While you wander through the meticulously crafted Wizarding World, you can take a moment to leaf through the pages that ignited your love for this magical world.
Whether it’s reading a passage while sitting in the shadows of Knockturn Alley or flipping through your book on the back porch at the Three Broomsticks with a mug of butterbeer, your well-worn books can be your guide to reliving the stories amid the immersive settings of the theme park.
Did you know that Universal Orlando also sells the Harry Potter books? Keep an eye out for them at the Owlery in Hogsmeade and Flourish and Blotts in Diagon Alley.
Best Photo Spots at Universal Orlando with Your Harry Potter Books
Capture photos of you and your books in the heart of these enchanting landscapes to create memories that truly encapsulate the magic.
- The Hogwarts Castle: Get a shot with your book with the breathtaking Hogwarts Castle as the backdrop.
- The Hogwarts Express: Don’t forget to photograph your books next to the iconic Hogwarts Express.
- Behind Honeydukes: There is a hidden alley great for pictures behind Honeydukes.
- Platform 9¾: Snap a picture as you push a luggage cart through the barrier to reach the Hogwarts Express.
- The Knight Bus: Have your books pose with the quirky and iconic purple Knight Bus and its conductor, Stan Shunpike.
- Ollivanders Wand Shop: Read your book next to the famous wand shop where young wizards get their first wands.
- Steps of Gringotts Bank: Sit and read beneath the Dragon in Diagon Alley.
- Knockturn Alley: Explore the dark corners of Knockturn Alley, where mystery lies behind every turn.
- No. 12 Grimmauld Place: Sit and read while waiting for the secret keeper to let you into the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix.
Remember, these photo spots not only let you showcase your beloved Harry Potter books in the wizarding world but also allow you to create a unique and memorable album of your magical adventure at Universal Orlando.
Get A Wand or Wizard Robes (or both)
Visiting Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World offers the perfect opportunity to transform into a wizard or witch. One of the most thrilling experiences is acquiring your very own wand from Ollivanders, where the wand chooses the wizard. These wands are more than just props; they’re interactive tools that allow you to cast spells throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
Donning wizard robes is another fantastic way to fully immerse yourself in the magic. Whether you’re dressed as a Hogwarts student or in your own unique wizarding attire, the photo opportunities are endless. Stand outside Gringotts Bank, stroll along the cobblestone streets, or pose beside iconic landmarks with your wand at the ready. The result? Spellbinding photos that capture the enchantment of the Wizarding World, transporting you right into the heart of the Harry Potter series.
Try Butterbeer
Indulging in a frothy Butterbeer while reading at Universal Orlando is a magical experience for any Harry Potter fan. Whether you choose the classic cold version, the hot variety, or even the delightful frozen option, there’s something enchanting about sipping this wizarding world favorite as you immerse yourself in the pages of J.K. Rowling’s iconic series.
Find a cozy spot, perhaps with a view of Hogwarts Castle or in the shade of the Three Broomsticks, and let the tantalizing blend of butterscotch and cream transport you into the enchanting realm of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. It’s a perfect pairing of real-world comfort and literary adventure that’s sure to delight muggles and wizards alike.
All varieties of Butterbeer can be found at both Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios. You might also want to try Butterbeer Ice Cream or Butterbeer Fudge!
Eat at the Three Broomsticks or Leaky Cauldron
Dining at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade or the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley is a magical experience that perfectly complements your reading journey through the Harry Potter series at Universal Orlando. These charming, rustic taverns offer a delectable selection of British and wizarding world cuisine.
While savoring your meal, you can immerse yourself in the tales of the Boy Who Lived, letting the rich flavors and cozy ambiance transport you straight to the heart of J.K. Rowling’s enchanting universe. Whether it’s a hearty plate of fish and chips or a bottle of Pumpkin Juice, the Three Broomsticks and the Leaky Cauldron provide the ideal backdrop for both sustenance and storytelling, making them a must-visit for any Potterhead embarking on a literary adventure in the theme parks.
Celebrating Harry Potter Book Day with Magical Rides
Exploring the thrilling rides at Universal Orlando is a fantastic way to infuse even more magic into your Harry Potter book day celebration. Whether you’re braving the twists and turns of the Forbidden Journey in Hogwarts Castle, taking an adventurous journey to Gringotts Bank, or feeling the rush on roller coasters like the Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure or Flight of the Hippogriff, each ride offers its own spellbinding experience.
Don’t forget to ride the Hogwarts Express both ways for a different experience each way!
Harry Potter Day Scavenger Hunt
Ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting depths of Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World? Craft an exciting scavenger hunt to seek out these mystical treasures and secrets in both parks!
- A set of Harry Potter Books
- Tom Riddle’s Diary
- Monster Book of Monsters
- Magical Me by Gilderoy Lockhart
- A wand
- A chocolate frog
- A Golden Snitch
- A copy of “The Daily Prophet”
- A mug of Butterbeer
- A feather quill
- A wizarding robe
- A flying broomstick
- A Telescope
- The Marauder’s Map
- An Giant Snake
- A Dark Mark
- Kreacher
- Hedwig
- A motorbike
- A Goblin
Want even more of a challenge? Find these items!
- A Rubber Chicken
- “M.A.G.I.C.”
- A Sneazel
- The Ford Anglier
- “Ask Harry About Rubber Ducks”
- The Hand of Glory
- An instrument playing itself
Harry Potter Day at Home
Not able to visit Universal Orlando today? Have fun at home!
Bloomsbury offers an event kit you can download, full of party ideas. There is a magical free lesson hosted by Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood)!
Decorations
For your Harry Potter Book Day celebration at home, decorating your space is a magical must! Think about creating a fantastic atmosphere. You can set the stage by fashioning your very own Platform 9 3/4 entrance, complete with a trolley that’s seemingly disappearing into the wall. Don’t forget the Great Hall’s long tables with floating candles and a ceiling that mirrors the night sky.
You could also add the grandeur of the Ministry of Magic with enchanting decorations in your living room. Create a fireplace to serve as the entrance to the Floo Network, connecting you to the wizarding world. Whether you choose to transform your space into one magical place or incorporate elements from various iconic locations, it’s time to get creative and let your imagination run wild!
Attire
And let’s not forget about dressing the part. Encourage your guests to come in costume as their favorite witches, wizards, or perhaps even as Hogwarts ghosts. Don’t leave out your pets; they can join in on the fun too with some wizardly attire! I know I’ll be wearing one of my Witch costumes today!
Food
Delight your guests with treats straight from the trolley on the Hogwarts Express. Whip up some Chocolate Frogs, Pumpkin Pasties, and perhaps even some Butterbeer Ice Cream. Consider having some ‘Potions Ingredients’ on hand – gummy worms, jelly slugs, or other creative concoctions. A little experimentation in the kitchen can lead to some magical results!
Games
Harry Potter Book Day isn’t complete without some enchanting games. Begin with the Sorting Hat ceremony to determine your Hogwarts House. Will you be brave like a Gryffindor or cunning as a Slytherin?
Challenge your guests to a paper plane race reminiscent of the Ministry of Magic memos that zoom around the office. Test your knowledge with the Harry Potter Quizzes and challenges included in the Event kit.
Reading
Finally, settle in for some reading. Gather your favorite passages from the books and read them aloud, sharing the magic of J.K. Rowling’s words. While you’re at it, compare and contrast different versions of the Harry Potter books.
How many versions of the Harry Potter books do you own? We have 5: the original edition, a Spanish translation, the latest printing, the enchanting pop-up book, and the beautifully illustrated. Pick your favorite! Enjoy your enchanting Harry Potter Book Day celebration at home!
How are you planning on celebrating Harry Potter Book day?
I’m currently sitting in my Harry Potter Pajamas, gathering ingredients to make a fantastic dinner, pulling out every one of my Harry Potter books, and still deciding which Harry Potter outfit to wear today.
Whether you’re conjuring up magic at Universal Orlando or transforming your home into a wizarding wonderland, relish the enchantment of Harry Potter Book Day. Embrace the wizarding spirit, savor the delectable treats, and dive into the spellbinding world of literature. No matter where you celebrate, the magic of Harry Potter lives on, bringing readers of all ages together in an enduring enchantment.
