The enchanting world of Harry Potter is set to captivate fans once again with an array of spectacular global celebrations marking the return to Hogwarts.

This year’s festivities promise a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Events are scheduled in major cities worldwide, including New York, Madrid, Rome, Rio de Janeiro, Hamburg, Paris, London, Tokyo, and many more. Here’s your ultimate guide to the magical happenings approaching September 1st.

A Magical Date: September 1st

Back to Hogwarts Day, celebrated on September 1st, is a significant date in the wizarding calendar. It marks the return of students to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, embarking on another year of enchanting adventures. For fans across the globe, it’s a day of celebration and camaraderie. So, dust off your copy of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” don your Hogwarts robes, and prepare to immerse yourself in the magic once more.

Blockbuster Films Return to the Big Screen

The Harry Potter film series, which grossed over $7.7 billion during its original theatrical run, remains one of the most beloved cinematic franchises ever. To celebrate Back to Hogwarts, theatres worldwide will host special screenings of these iconic movies leading up to September 1st. For detailed listings and ticket information, visit Wizarding World.

Back to Hogwarts x Snapchat

This year, Snapchat joins the festivities with exclusive Back to Hogwarts Lenses inspired by the Sorting Hat and the upcoming game, “Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions.” From the 26th of August to the 9th of September, fans in cities like London, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, New York, and Tokyo can experience the Hogwarts Express against iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Grand Central Terminal. Scan the Snapchat Lens to watch the legendary train come to life on your screen.

Global Fan Celebrations

Harry Potter enthusiasts are in for a treat with digital and in-person activities worldwide. Fans can partake in numerous events at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Destinations & Experiences, Warner Bros. Studio Tours, or various Harry Potter travelling exhibits. Additionally, select LEGO stores and LEGO.com will feature the latest LEGO Harry Potter range and special activities.

United Kingdom

As the birthplace of Harry Potter, the UK hosts some of the most elaborate Back to Hogwarts events. UK and Ireland fans can enter a competition to win the ultimate Back to Hogwarts experience, including a VIP feast in the Great Hall at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and a stay at the luxurious Grove Hotel. For more details and to enter, visit Wizarding World.

Wizarding Wednesdays will return on the 31st of July with exclusive giveaways such as tickets to “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” personalized Hogwarts House Gift Trunks, and the forthcoming game, “Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions.” Although fans are advised against travelling to King’s Cross on the 1st of September, they can tune in to a particular online program hosted by Sam Thompson on the official Harry Potter YouTube channel at 11:00 am BST / 06:00 am ET.

The House of MinaLima invites fans to their special event on the 1st of September, featuring a limited-edition Back to Hogwarts 2024 button badge giveaway and other surprises. More information can be found at MinaLima.

United States

For the first time, US fans can enjoy a Back to Hogwarts pop-up at Vanderbilt Hall in New York City’s Grand Central Terminal from the 30th of August to the 1st of September. The event will include magical performances, LEGO building activities, an interactive Quidditch Champions experience, and the opportunity to toast with Butterbeer courtesy of the Harry Potter New York flagship store. A live countdown event will also take place on the 1st of September at 11:00 am, requiring a free ticket for attendance. Details on ticket registration will be announced soon.

Europe

In France, Lyon will host a Quidditch-themed event at Parvis de la Part-Dieu from August 31st to September 1st. The event will feature Quidditch practice sessions, photo opportunities, games, and giveaways.

Germany’s celebrations include a special fan event on September 1st at the Theater at Hamburg’s Großmarkt, home to “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” The event will feature a live countdown, an engaging panel, and special guest appearances. Fans in Munich can celebrate at “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” and the Wizarding World by Thalia store.

Italy’s iconic Galleria Alberto Sordi in Rome will host a fan gathering on September 1st. Activities suitable for all ages will include a live countdown and new Harry Potter-themed photo opportunities.

In Spain, Madrid will host a special event at a soon-to-be-revealed location from August 30th to September 1st. The event will include photo opportunities and various surprises throughout the day.

Asia

China’s Changsha will be the hub for Back to Hogwarts celebrations from August 30th to September 1st. The celebrations will feature photo opportunities, artwork displays, and merchandise stalls.

In Macau, fans can celebrate at “Harry Potter: The Exhibition,” exploring various Hogwarts-inspired galleries.

Japan will host a special 11:00 a.m. countdown event on September 1st at Platform 9 ¾ in Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo. On this day, visitors to Universal Studios Japan can also enjoy a special event at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Online Celebrations

For those unable to attend in person, digital celebrations abound. The official Harry Potter YouTube channel will host the annual Showcase of News in the year ahead at 10:30 BST / 05:30 ET. Expect exciting updates from Warner Bros. Games, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Destinations & Experiences, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, and Harry Potter publishers such as Scholastic, Pottermore, and Bloomsbury. For all Back to Hogwarts updates, visit Wizarding World, get sorted into your Hogwarts house, and join the Harry Potter Fan Club.

This year’s Back to Hogwarts celebrations promises to be magical, uniting fans worldwide in a shared love for the wizarding world. Whether you’re attending an in-person event or joining the digital festivities, there’s something for every Harry Potter enthusiast to enjoy. So, polish your wands and prepare for an unforgettable journey back to Hogwarts!

These global celebrations honour Harry Potter’s legacy and unite a diverse community of fans to share in the magic and wonder of J.K. Rowling’s beloved series. With events spanning continents and innovative digital experiences, the 2024 Back to Hogwarts festivities are set to be the most enchanting yet. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this worldwide phenomenon and create new magical memories.

For more information and updates, be sure to visit Wizarding World.