This coming weekend, the annual Uncelebration of Harry Potter occurs at Universal Orlando Resort. While I’m not able to attend this year, I have been lucky enough to attend for the past 2 years.
What is Uncelebration?
Back between 2014 and 2018, Universal Orlando hosted an event called the Celebration of Harry Potter. Celebrity guests attended and held Q&A sessions and photo-ops. Film props and costumes from the movies were brought to display at the expo areas.
Universal Orlando discontinued it in 2018, but fans wanted to continue dressing up and celebrating their love of Harry Potter. A Harry Potter fan group (Weasleys Whimsical World of Harry Potter) got together and has quickly grown the event into something enjoyed by all.
What do you do at Uncelebration?
The organizers for Uncelebration set up photoshoots throughout the weekend, trivia events, scavenger hunts, themed costume days. They set up a facebook event where schedules are posted, conversations started on costume choices and rules discussed. Generally several local photographers attend to capture photos for the event.
There are so many fantastic locations to take photos and explore in the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. We love being in character and taking photos as a family!
Can anyone participate in Uncelebration?
Yes. If you have a ticket to Universal Orlando or an annual pass, you can attend. The event has meet-ups in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, so a two-park ticket is critical.
Note: This event does generally occur the same weekend as Rock the Universe, so the park is busier than typical January weekends. If you were hoping to ride all the rides and participate in event activites, you may need to adjust your expectations.
What costumes can I wear?
Universal Orlando does not have the same rules as Walt Disney World does about adults in costume. Universal allows guests to wear costumes into the parks as long as you keep your face visible, do not have any weaponry, and your outfit does not have a long train or veil.
Organizers of Uncelebration suggest that you do not take photos with other visitors who are not participating in the event. Universal Orlando does not want other guests to think that participants are Team Members or have any association with Universal Orlando.
Keep in mind too that certain rides have restrictions on wearing wizard robes. If you want to ride the motorbike seat on Hagrid’s, you cannot be wearing a wizard robe (or any loose clothing for that matter).
What costumes I’ve made and worn
My goal with picking a costume to create for Uncelebration is to make sure it is something that also allows me to ride roller coasters and be comfortable throughout the day. I have created an awesome culotte pattern that looks like a skirts, but allows me to sit comfortably on any ride. It also of course has pockets. I have used it for both Bellatrix and Narcissa’s costumes, as well as other costumes and date night “skirts”.
I really loved being both sisters Bellatrix and Narcissa. The interactions with other guests and TM’s while dressed as dark Witches are completely different in those costumes. Both costumes challenged my sewing skills and practical skills for keeping them both screen accurate and functional for a full day at the parks. I will share my pattern for the culottes in the future.
