Celebrate Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort

Nov 21, 2017

From Jan. 26-28, 2018, witches, wizards and muggles can revel in all things Harry Potter at the fifth-annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter” event at Universal Orlando Resort. Attendees will be able to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, as well as ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands with a park-to-park ticket.

“Some of my favorite magical experiences during this weekend-long event include special panels, demonstrations and displays that celebrate [‘Harry Potter’ author] J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world,” said Hailey Fitch, a public relations representative for Universal Orlando Resort.

Guests of the three-day event can experience all sorts of sorcery, including the Harry Potter Expo, which will feature movie sets and props, interactive exhibits and artwork inspired by the books and films. Plus, the wizarding world will be brought to life with magical activities and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else, such as the Harry Potter Chalk Art Walk, where talented chalk artists draw characters and scenes from the “Harry Potter” stories; the Harry Potter Knowledge Challenge, where fans of all ages can show off how well they know the “Harry Potter” films; and a wand combat skills workshop, where aspiring witches and wizards can learn how to duel with Paul Harris, the world’s only wand combat choreographer.

Although Rowling will not be in attendance, cast members from the “Harry Potter” film series — including James and Oliver Phelps (who play characters Fred and George Weasley, respectively), Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley) and, for the first time in the event’s history, Stanislav Yanevski (Viktor Krum) — will be on hand throughout the weekend to answer fan questions, share insider stories and participate in festivities.

Admission to the event is included with any park-to-park admission ticket or with a seasonal or annual pass, but vacation packages will allow clients to experience even more of the magic.

A Celebration of Harry Potter Premium Vacation Packages begin at $599 per adult, per night and offer maximum access to the event with on-site hotel accommodations, park-to-park tickets, guaranteed access to select event activities and premium package inclusions. Standard packages start at $285 per adult, per night and include hotel accommodations, park-to-park tickets and special access to event activities. Additionally, special packages are available for Florida residents (starting at $259) and passholders (starting at $189).

Guests who purchase a vacation package will also receive complimentary scheduled transportation between their hotel and Universal Orlando Resort; reserved seating for all panels and discussions; and admission into the exclusive evening event on Jan. 26, 2018, in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Agents should note that A Celebration of Harry Potter attendees may wear costumes in Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida theme parks; however, clients planning to wear costumes should review the costume guidelines before attending.