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Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

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[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

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There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

7 ways Hogwarts showed us January needn’t be so bad

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Harry and Hedwig looking at Hogwarts from a disatnce 

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January is without doubt the bleakest month. Christmas has faded to a vague cinnamon-scented memory. Our bank accounts and straining waistlines are grim reminders of all that guilty festive excess. Worse still is the collective dawning horror as we contemplate the endless weeks of cheerless winter to be endured between now and springtime.

Or at least, that’s one way of looking at it. There’s also the bracing possibility of a fresh start, a blank page, a chance to begin anew. Even a certain frosty camaraderie to be enjoyed with the people we love in the frigid weather. Here’s how Harry and chums showed us to be of good cheer at this bitter time of year…

## Everybody’s back at school

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Even for Muggles, the Christmas holidays are a magical time of food, family, long lie-ins and plenty of presents. But who among us doesn’t find certain people a little trying, especially after being shut in together for so long? No one can blame Harry for staying back at Hogwarts rather than exchanging more small-talk than was needed with the Dursleys.
 
## Being outside can still be fun

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Harry Ron and Hermione in a snowy Hogsmead 

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Okay, it’s certainly not picnic weather. But there’s plenty of joy to be had outdoors, like the time Hagrid laid on some toasty entertainment for students…

> The last thing anyone felt like doing was spending two hours in the grounds on a raw January morning, but Hagrid had provided a bonfire full of salamanders for their enjoyment, and they spent an unusually good lesson collecting dry wood and leaves to keep the fire blazing, while the flame-loving lizards scampered up and down the crumbling, white-hot logs.<br>
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

See? Even the salamanders had a blast.

## Quidditch is back

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Although training is extra brutal on account of biting winds and rock-hard ground, this is where the season really hots up for our heroes on broomsticks. Just as with Muggle football, every game from this point on counts. Those extra punishing hours required to rise to the challenge are perfect for working off that festive podge, whether you’re swooping after the Golden Snitch as captain of Gryffindor, or a Muggle practicing throw-ins. You heard us — get out there!

## It’s a chance to show off your tough side…

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Viktor Krum showed us just what Durmstrang boys were made of by leaping from the school ship into the icy waters of Hogwarts’ Great Lake in January to prepare for his Triwizard Tournament campaign. His steely resolve in the bitter conditions, and limber form, certainly didn’t go unnoticed by young Hermione Granger. 

## …or just slope off to the pub

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Concept illustration of a snowy Hogsmeade, ad the exterior of the Three Broomsticks

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After noting Viktor’s impressive indifference to the cold, Harry, Hermione and Ron wandered down into the village of Hogsmeade. Of all the places they could have gone, The Three Broomsticks turned out to be the one they went for. When it’s slushy outside, what could be finer than settling down with your best friends over a few judgement-free Butterbeers?

## It can’t get much worse…

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Sybill Trelawney looking mystically mad from the Prisoner of Azkaban 

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Professor Trelawney may have been a somewhat tactless when she told Harry that his lifelines were the shortest she’d ever seen, during the first Divination lesson of the first day back. However, if you’re going to get rubbish news then it’s better to get it on a rubbish day. When you’re at rock bottom (and we all know that first-day-back feeling) then surely the only way is up. 

## …but there’s always something to celebrate

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Christmas is over and you’re all partied out, eh? Well, you probably know someone whose birthday it is in January. That someone, moreover, is probably used to people making excuses for not making an effort. All right, you’re financially challenged, currently. And you’re probably still hungover. But your friends still deserve a party, so let them know you care this January. Even Gilderoy Lockhart (whose birthday falls on 26 January) could use some love, you know.

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

So this is how 2016 ends… with Lord Voldemort’s 90th birthday

PMARCHIVE-So this is how 2016 ends… with Lord Voldemort’s 90th birthday

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Voldemort in the Ministry of Magic from the Order of the Phonix 

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2016 has been an… unprecedented year – yes, that’s the word. So, as we approach the year’s end we could all do with a bit of a laugh. Let’s look at ways magic-minded folk might party on New Year’s Eve – the day a certain [Tom Marvolo Riddle](/features/tom-riddle) first entered the world in 1926. 

That’s not to say that the most evil wizard of all time’s birthday is in any way a cause for joy and merriment. But it feels somehow fitting to wrap up this particular year with some pretty dark party inspiration. It’s what he would have wanted. 

## Get the Dark Lord look  
Robes. Black ones. They go with anything and hide a multitude of sins. Also, blood doesn’t show up.

Finesse the sinister, brooding look you’re going for with pale blue nails sharpened to a vicious point. And be fair, You-Know-Who would probably still look pretty fierce at 90.

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Voldemort holding his wand in the Ministry of Magic from the Order of the Phoneix 

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## Whip up some Voldemort-themed cocktails  
Start your night with a ‘Unicorn’s blood’ cocktail. Lord Voldemort survived using this vitalising tonic to sustain his life force when seeking the Philosopher’s Stone. Shiny and nourishing, the only drawback (as with many cocktails, to be fair) is the fact that, as handsome centaur Firenze put it, ‘You will have… a cursed life, from the moment [it] touches your lips.’

After that, if you survive, try a ‘drink of despair’, also known as the Emerald Potion. Failing that, a straightforward Babbling Beverage should do it. As Snape spat at Harry: ‘Potter, when I want nonsense shouted at me, I shall give you a Babbling Beverage.’ You’ll fit in at most parties, trust us. 

## Make a ‘pin the nose on the Dark Lord’ game
Nothing says ‘party’ like a blindfolded test of wits and cunning. So why not help He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named look (and smell) just a little better with a friendly game of pin-the-nose on his pasty chops? 

*Warning: may cause a trifling case of death if attempted.*

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Voldemort stares ahead while in Malfoy Manor in a film still from the Deathly Hallows Part .

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## Snake charming  
Who doesn’t love snakes? They slither, eat mice and smell the air with their tongues – they just scream ‘cuddly’. Why not befriend that giant boa constrictor at your local zoo and train it to track your enemies? Although to be fair, it’ll most likely sleep for most of the day on a giant rock. 

Remember to feign Parseltongue any time the snake looks out of its glass case, it’ll freak your mates out.  

## Throw an impromptu street party  
By a peculiar coincidence the Dark Lord is the same age as Queen Elizabeth II. Or would be, anyway, if he was still alive. In a similar vein to this golden summer of street parties, bunting and cake honouring Her Majesty, how about wrapping up warm and laying on some deliciously dark treats in honour of wicked old Voldemort?

Okay, most people wouldn’t respond to your invite. But we bet the Death Eaters would show up. Bellatrix is probably lots of fun down the karaoke, and the Malfoys could certainly afford to bring along a posh hamper for the buffet. Maybe leave Barty Crouch Jr off the guest list?

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Voldemort and his Death Eaters in the Forbidden Forrest from The Deathly Hallows 

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*Obviously, don’t do any of this. But do have a very Happy New Year.*

2016 ends… with Lord Voldemort’s 90th birthday

The deliciously detailed food-o-graphic

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Food-o-graphic FINAL 

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[Full version](https://images.pottermore.com/bxd3o8b291gf/6DFhbVdoruEWikgQYaoIGy/cdada5d855fb2a7aa7035aa87b2b230f/Pottermore_Christmas_Food-o-graphic_MA_Desktop-01.jpg)

*When were magic wands first mentioned in the Harry Potter books? Which witch or wizard used their wand the most? Find out here in our [great wand-o-graphic.](/feature/the-great-wand-o-graphic "The great wand-o-graphic")*

What parents from the Harry Potter stories have taught us

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## People can change

We’ve all got a past and we’ve all done things we’re not proud of in life, but luckily it’s never too late to change. James Potter wasn’t always the noble, kind wizard Harry first heard about. Remember, at school he was a bit of a bully with a cringeworthy hair-fluffing habit worthy of Gilderoy Lockhart. 

James clearly learned some serious lessons during his last few years at Hogwarts; the importance of friendship and how you need to earn respect and love, to name a few. Harry may have been shocked by the younger version of his father but really, it just shows how much James grew up to become the person he was when he died. 

## Sometimes you have to make sacrifices

Wouldn’t it be lovely if life was easy and wonderfully straightforward? Sadly, as we saw time and time again throughout the Harry Potter series, it doesn’t always work out that way. There are times when you’ll be faced with a tough choice – doing what’s right or doing what is easy. 

Frank and Alice Longbottom, Tonks and Lupin, and Lily and James all stepped up and did what they believed was right, even though it would likely result in their own untimely ends. They did it because they wanted a better future for their children, their friends and their families, even if they weren’t around to see it. Take inspiration from these formidable characters – the things you really want in life won’t be easy and there will be sacrifices along the way, but it will be worth it in the long run.

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Tonks looking scared with Lupin at her side from the Half Blood Prince.

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## True love isn’t always instant

Lily and James Potter were an excellent example of this. Harry might have had a very romanticised image of his parents and their love story until he took a trip into Professor Snape’s memories. Seeing how his mother wasn’t immediately taken by his arrogant, show-off father, Harry was more than a little shocked and can’t help but wonder how they ended up together. 

Lily might not have realised it at first, but as James grew up, she grew to like him. Some of the best, most enduring love stories begin with two people who are at odds with each other. After all, you know what they say – love works in mysterious ways.

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## Family is the most important thing

It’s easy to get so caught up in life that you forget about the mainstays of family and friends – people that you love the most and that always have your back. Seeing them day-in and day-out can mean you can end up taking them for granted, but take a leaf out of the Weasleys’ book. They might not have had many Galleons to their name but as long as they were together, safely tucked up amidst the cosy chaos of The Burrow, they were happy. 

Harry may have had a mountain of gold hidden away in his vault but he would gladly have exchanged that to get his family back – something that Mr and Mrs Weasley recognised straight away, readily treating him like one of their own.

## Love is shown in different ways

In real life, love isn’t all compliments, heartfelt speeches and ‘Won-Won’ nicknames. For Lupin and Tonks, making the choice to fight was done in the name of love. Mrs Weasley seemed to spend nearly every waking breath berating Fred and George, but it was only because she cared and wanted them to reach their full potential. 

Neville’s grandmother was so hard on him that he dreaded her finding out when he didn’t achieve certain grades – but it was her way of showing that she cared and wanted him to do well. It’s worth remembering that sometimes, when our parents seem to be hard on us, they’re doing it for our own good.

## Some lessons can’t be taught

Although we may not like it or even realise it at the time, it’s our parents who teach us many of life’s important lessons. Manners, social etiquette, the alphabet: this is all knowledge that can be passed on. But sometimes there are things we have to work out for ourselves, as the Weasleys well know. 

Poor Molly was devastated when Voldemort came back and Percy refused to believe it, firmly allying himself with the Ministry. It didn’t matter how much they pleaded with him or tried to get him to see sense – Percy was adamant that he was right. As parents, they knew then that the only thing they could do was to let him go, hoping that he saw sense and came back to them. Percy finally saw the light, of course, but it was a hard lesson to learn and one he wasn’t likely to forget in a hurry. 

## Love can force you to make tough decisions

Xenophilius Lovegood, always quirky and slightly unpredictable, could be relied on for one thing during Voldemort’s second reign of terror – he was firmly on Harry’s side. So much so that he devoted most editions of his magazine, *The Quibbler*, to the subject and wasn’t exactly quiet in his support. 

Unfortunately, this made him a prime target for the Death Eaters and they took the one thing that was most important to him – Luna. Xenophilius was ready to give Harry, Hermione and Ron up to Voldemort if it meant getting Luna back – even though it went against everything he believed in. It just goes to show that even the strongest among us can go down the wrong path if it means protecting the ones we love.

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Harry Ron and Hermione outside the Lovegood house 

The differences between a Muggle Christmas and a wizarding Christmas

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Whether you’re a Muggle basting a turkey or a wizard watching the gravy stir itself, Christmas is a magical time. Yet, naturally, wizarding Christmases do tend to be a bit more magical than others, encompassing all manner of twists on familiar festive favourites. It’s enough to make you want to dump your dull, lifeless Christmas lights in the bin. After all, what’s the point if they’re not actually real, fluttering fairies?

## Food

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A wizarding Christmas dinner is not too dissimilar from a Muggle Christmas dinner. The Hogwarts’ Christmas feast is usually awash with turkeys and flaming Christmas puddings, and even the most powerful of wizards won’t be able to resist falling asleep by the end of it. But there are a few magical touches that Muggles sadly cannot compete with.

The main thing being that there are means of magic that can make food replenish itself, meaning Christmas dinner never has to end. Imagine having the miracle of never-ending wine, for example. Magical stuff aside, wizards also like to put their own little twist on the old Muggle tradition of hiding a sixpence in a Christmas pudding, as demonstrated by Percy, who nearly choked on a Sickle embedded in his festive dessert.

## Presents

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Given that wizards are wizards, their Christmas presents are a bit more magical than most. Harry, for example, sampled the delights of both worlds, going from toothpicks and 50p pieces from the Dursleys to Invisibility Cloaks, Firebolts and magical penknives.

There are certain gifts, however, that are only slightly dissimilar to Muggle ones. Wizards, for instance, still receive presents such as sweets, socks and jumpers – but they just happen to be decorated with Snitches and Hungarian Horntails, and the sweets are usually Chocolate Frogs or a box of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. 

## Traditions

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A lot of Christmas wizarding traditions are very similar to our Muggle ones. There’s eggnog, kissing under mistletoe and even Christmas carols, except in the wizarding world they’re more likely to be sung by a tipsy half-giant or an enchanted suit of an armour.

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Luna speaking to Sanguine at Slughorn's party 

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There are a few little traditions that particular wizards have adopted, though: Mrs Weasley loved to listen to the Christmas broadcast of her favourite singer Celestina Warbeck, whereas Harry and his friends were quite partial to some wizard chess or a few rounds of Exploding Snap.

And let’s not forget about Slughorn’s Christmas parties, not that the likes of us would ever be invited. Aside from that, Muggle Christmases and wizard ones are remarkably similar, although we’re sure wizard Christmases don’t involve watching Harry Potter movie marathons…

## Decorations

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While some of us are guilty of going a little overboard with our festive decorations, our humble fairy lights will always pale in comparison to the Hogwarts Great Hall during Christmas time.

While Muggles struggle to drag home just one Christmas tree, the Great Hall usually boasts around a dozen massive ones, all immaculately adorned in candles, holly berries and even ‘real hooting golden owls’. Throw in everlasting icicles, Christmas lights that are actually fairies and enchanted snow falling from the ceiling, and even our impressive Christmas tree colour schemes can’t live up to all of that.

Let’s not forget about the amazing-sounding Christmas crackers too, which extravagantly explode to reveal things like live mice and novelty hats. We don’t mean flimsy paper crowns that break the second we put them on either – we mean fully realised rear-admiral’s hats.

Meanwhile, outside of Hogwarts, Fred and George Weasley were also known to experiment with an unorthodox decorating technique. For while Muggles have taken to putting stars or angels on top of their Christmas trees, the twins opted to top theirs with a golden painted gnome, dressed it in a tutu. It’s good to think outside the box sometimes.

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Petunia Dursley’s unlikely Hogwarts ambitions

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Aunt Petunia looking shocked from the Prisoner of Azkaban 

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Number four, Privet Drive might be the most relentlessly non-magical environment in the Harry Potter books but the wiper of its pristine surfaces had a surprising secret.

Aunt Petunia vowed, along with her husband Vernon, to ‘stamp out’ her nephew’s magic. But, thanks to the memories of Severus Snape, we know that Petunia once held different aspirations.

## Magical sibling rivalry
The bony and horse-faced aunt we met in *Philosopher’s Stone* seemed almost like a cartoon caricature: a woman cruel enough to deny her orphaned nephew a proper place in her family, mean enough to underfeed him and even make him sleep in a cupboard. But she wasn’t always this way.

Before she became the Marigolds-wearing Mrs Dursley we know and loathe, Petunia Evans – or  ‘Tuney’ as her sister called her – actually longed to be a witch. 

It wasn’t until that ‘awful boy’ – the Evans family’s young neighbour Severus Snape – noticed Lily’s burgeoning magic (she was practically flying off a garden swing at the time) that Petunia realised what her sister really was.

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