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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

The Harry Potter crossword

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Which birthday party would you rather go to? Harry’s or Neville’s?

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## We would go… to Harry’s birthday party 

No shade to our dear Neville but if we want to go to a party then we want to go to a party. And Harry’s? Well, that would be the party of the century… no… it would be the party of the millennium.  

Firstly, we think we can all agree that a birthday party for the Chosen One would be nothing short of spectacular. If anyone deserves to be celebrated it’s the boy-who-saved-the-entire-wizarding-world-from-Voldemort. Those who were organising it would pull out all the stops. Butterbeer for everyone! The Weird Sisters playing all their very best tunes (or possibly Celestina Warbeck if Molly Weasley was involved in the planning)! A cheeky game of [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) to get involved in! The possibilities for this party are endless. 

Then there’s the guest list. You can bet that nearly every Gryffindor would be attending and if this house knows how to do anything, it’s being the life and soul of the party – their exuberant post-Quidditch match celebrations show us that.  

In fact, a birthday for Harry Potter would be a veritable who’s who of the wizarding world. We can guarantee that all your favourites would be there. It would be so fun to discuss the Chudley Cannon’s current season with Ron. Brilliant to be able to pick Hermione’s brain about, well, anything. Or ask Mr Weasley if he had finally figured out the function of a rubber duck.  

Oh, and we must talk about the catering. Harry had some very useful connections there – [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley) for starters. She could whip up a feast at a drop of a hat. Remember the Snitch birthday cake she made Harry? Or any other meal she made throughout the entire series? Delicious. And speaking of cake, Hagrid would definitely be at any birthday of Harry’s and while his rock cakes might be a little… tough, we wouldn’t say no to another version of that iconic cake he made for Harry’s eleventh birthday.  

Now we don’t want to say that Neville’s party would be boring exactly… but we imagine his soiree would be a lot quieter. There wouldn’t be that spark of energy that you would find at Harry’s birthday. Plus, unless you are a major Herbology fan, we reckon we could get tired of spending our evening discussing the finer points of a Mimbulus mimbletonia – sorry Neville, we still love you. 

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a party with good food, good people, good conversation and an all-round good time, then Harry’s birthday is the place to be. Yes, it might be a little over-the-top, but it would probably be the best party you’ve ever been to… even the most introverted of us couldn’t help but have a magical time. 

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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## We would go... to Neville’s birthday party  
Sure. Picking Harry’s birthday party is the easy choice. We get it. You think just because he was the Chosen One, he’s more popular, more fun, more likely to have a rambunctious time? Forget all of that. Neville’s birthday party would be far superior. We can just picture it now... 

Firstly, Neville’s undying love of [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) would surely be a top theme for this function. Maybe there would be plant-themed snacks and drinks (Dirigible Plum Pudding, anyone?) at the buffet table. And we would surely be raising a Mimbulus mimble-toast to the big man himself.  

Speaking of Herbology – you just know that Professor Sprout would be a VIP guest for Neville here. Harry and Neville’s Gryffindor clan would probably be torn on which party to attend (and let’s face it, a lot of them are going to pick Harry) but we *know* Sprout would have Nev’s back, no matter what. The idea of having a cheeky chuckle with Pomona over a hilarious Mandrake anecdote is giving us hypothetical FOMO just thinking about it. She’d probably even let Neville rent out the greenhouses (the perfect setting!) for the big event.  

And if Sprout’s coming, you can bet your bottom Sickle that Augusta Longbottom is coming too. We only met Neville’s no-nonsense grandmother a couple of times in the books, but we wanted to see so much more. Yes, she was stern, yes it sounded like Neville was low-key scared of her... but just imagine her after a couple of Gigglewaters! We bet she would be the absolute life and soul. We can just sense it. The stuffed vulture hat would be askew, that’s for sure. And that is a moment we simply need to bear witness to.   

And don’t under-estimate the guest of honour on the dancefloor either. We all saw Neville in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire waltzing up a storm in the dormitory after the Yule Ball – and it was beautiful to see this side to him. We don’t recall Harry being quite as up for a boogie... Just saying. 

What about Neville-themed party games? Pass the Remembrall could be a new trend (everyone in the room has to try and remember what someone else has forgotten) or how about a Great Lake swimming race after munching some [Gillyweed](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/gillyweed)? “Find Trevor” would be an instant classic – Neville's toad would inevitably go missing, after all. The winner gets one of Neville’s cosy cardigans. 

All of this to say, that going to Neville’s party may not sound as appealing as going to a glitzy celebrity event like Harry’s, but if anyone deserves to cut loose, it’s this wholesome king! And we want to be there right alongside him, helping Neville de-stress from years of forgotten passwords, surly Snape remarks and lost toads. He deserves it. 

*** 

Happy birthday to both of our beloved Gryffindor boys!

The Seeker wordsearch

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Which Olympic sport would the Harry Potter characters be good at?

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While wizards and witches have the Quidditch World Cup and the Triwizard Tournament, in the Muggle world, we enjoy this wonderful event called the Olympics – which involves way less dragons, but still has its own sporting magic. 

Originating from the traditions of Ancient Greece, this sporting event, alongside the Paralympics, has become a worldwide phenomenon – challenging top athletes on absolutely every sport you could think of, from heptathlons to ice hockey to beach volleyball. 

We’re getting into the spirit of the Games by imagining what our favourite Harry Potter characters would be good at.  

## Dean Thomas – Football  


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In the Harry Potter books, we learn that Harry’s fellow Gryffindor housemate Dean Thomas grew up with Muggle culture too – and as such, is an avid West Ham supporter.

With this in mind, we’d love to sign up Dean for Team GB! Thanks to his brief foray into Quidditch as a [Chaser](https://www.wizardingworld.com/fact-file/magical-miscellany/chaser), we know he’s quick off-the-mark. Also, and this is no small thing, he’d already know what the offside rule meant.  

## The Weasley twins – Synchronised diving

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From their expert pranks to finishing each other’s sentences – Fred and George Weasley were always perfectly in concert. So of course, if we were to assign them an Olympic sport, it would absolutely have to be a bit of good old fashioned synchronised diving! The sport involves gracefully flipping off a diving board (and thanks to their Quidditch experience, we know they’re already good with heights!) and landing in unison.  

Sure, it’d take a bit of training, and their concentration levels at Hogwarts weren’t exactly abundant, but the pair’s love of all-things-theatrical would make this activity an ideal choice for them. In other words: they’d probably love to show off.  

## Sir Cadogan – Equestrian events

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Sir Cadogan runs through pictures while on his quest through Hogwarts.

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Look, did we just think to ourselves, “hmm, which Harry Potter character rides a horse?” – sure, sure we did. Oh, alright, a pony.

Nonetheless, you cannot deny that this feisty painting subject would absolutely boss this event. And if he’s not tired afterwards, he could also apply for the fencing. 

## Harry Potter – Cycling BMX Freestyle

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Ooh, how specific. But based on Harry’s experiences as a Seeker for the Gryffindor Quidditch team, a role where the player must be steadfast and agile, we actually think he’d transfer to BMX freestyle quite nicely. 

This sport involves performing complicated tricks on a BMX bike, such as grinds, flips, spins and tailwhips. Remember Harry’s sterling work as a Seeker during Quidditch, where he was often dodging Bludgers and pulling into impressive dives? Swap the Firebolt for a cool bike – and we reckon he’d be going for gold medals over Golden Snitches in no time. 

## Cedric Diggory – Marathon swimming   


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Important to note that the Hufflepuff [Triwizard](https://www.wizardingworld.com/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) Champion actually won the Second Task: traversing the murky depths of the Great Lake in the fastest time. So why not take that skill and try marathon swimming?

This challenge takes place in open-water environments, so Cedric would already be attuned to his surroundings – and unlike Viktor Krum – he wouldn’t need to Transfigure his head into a shark’s one, which sounds like a faff. Not to mention it would be hard to put an Olympic medal around your neck. 

## Dobby – Decathlon

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Alright, bear with us... No, we’ve not gone mad, we genuinely think Dobby would be absolutely terrific for the decathlon. Yes, this is one of the Olympics’ most esteemed events. And it’s not for the faint-hearted: comprised of running, javelin throwing, high jump, shotput and more besides. 

But here’s the thing with Dobby – he is the ultimate multitasker. When he was finally freed from the Malfoy family, Dobby embarked on a period of self-discovery, such as learning to knit, to paint, to decorate – to do right by Harry Potter on absolutely any occasion. He could do it all! If you said to Dobby, “do it for Harry!” we truly believe this ambitious house-elf could achieve anything. Plus, being so nimble and tiny, he would definitely ace the pole vault.   

## Hagrid – Basketball 

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Well, he’d just win immediately, wouldn’t he? Just have him stand by the net and keep passing the ball to him. Job done. 

***

__Which Harry Potter character do YOU think should go to the Olympics?__

The trickiest words in Harry Potter and how to pronounce them

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This summer, we’re challenging parents and children alike to wrap their heads around the fantastical lexicon of the Harry Potter books. From Latin-inspired spells to eccentric character names, you might end up a little tongue-tied when reading the stories for the first time! And admittedly, we still stumble over a few particular things on a couple of re-reads!  

According to a recent study, two-thirds of parents love to use the Harry Potter glossary as a stimulus for their young ones’ imaginations, which can help improve dialect and phonetics skills as they break the words down. So even if it may sound like a bunch of gobbledegook, there’s a real science to helping young minds get a handle on complex words – even if we don’t use them in our Muggle world so much.  

Why not get started with some of our favourites? Some of them may surprise you!  

## Accio

That double ‘c’ sound can be rather tricky to get right. Is it a soft C, like “access” or a hard C, like “accord”? Not ideal if you're trying to use the Summoning Charm in a situation like – oh, let’s say... calling over your broom to avoid the flames of a nesting dragon? You know, ordinary things. Anyway, to avoid the risk of charred eyebrows, you would pronounce it like so: AH-key-oh. Think of it like that feeling when you’ve just found your keys that you thought you’d lost. “AH-key-oh!”  

## Amortentia

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This Potion might induce confusing feelings of love, but we wouldn’t be surprised if the correct pronunciation left you feeling confused too… Luckily, we can tell you the correct way to say the name of this love potion: AM-or-tensh-uh.  

## Animagus 

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The ability to turn yourself into an animal at will is very cool and one we love to be masters of. It also comes with a very col name but one that could be open to interpretation. To clear up any confusion, it’s ANNIE-may-guss. 

## Animagi 

But what if you want to refer to more than one Animagus? Like the Marauders for instance, what would you say then? Well, the plural of Animagus is Animagi and is pronounced ANNIE-may-jye.  

## Beauxbatons 

This French wizarding school has a name you would be forgiven for stumbling over. But in future, if you want to impress your friends with your impeccable French accent, Beauxbatons is said like BO-bat-awh. 

## Cruciatus  

This Unforgivable Curse is a horrid, ugly spell that causes agonising pain for those who are unfortunate enough to be on its receiving end. Rather fittingly, this spell has a rather horrid pronunciation too: KROO-see-AHT-uhss. And the incantation is “KROO-see-oh" - not that you’d ever be using it yourself, of course. 

## Expecto Patronum 

Want to get rid of a Dementor? Well, think of your happiest memory and say EX-PEC-toe Puh-TROE-num and not only will you send it skittering off into the distance, but you might just discover your Patronus’ form too. 

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## Imperius or Imperio  

Another of the Unforgivable Curses. If you cast the Imperius or Im-PEER-ee-uhss Curse on someone, you will have total control over their mind and actions. The incantation “Imperio” just requires you to add an O at the end. 

Fun fact: parents found this spell the easiest Harry Potter incantation to teach their young ones about!  

## Legilimency 

Those with this ability might be able to see into other people’s minds… but it doesn’t take a mind reader to know that this word is rather tricky to say. We’ll happily make it easier for you: Luh-JILL-ee-men-see. 

## Pensieve 

This rare magical artefact was one that was used to store and review memories. A play on the word pensive, it’s pronounced similarly – PEN-sivv. 

## Pigwidgeon  

When Ron’s pet rat Scabbers left the Weasleys in... troubling circumstances, it left a space for a brand-new pet to join the family. Enter Pigwidgeon, the tiny, cute and (according to Ron) slightly annoying owl. While Ron might have shortened his name to a simple ‘Pig’, we think he deserves to go by his full name, Pig-WIDGE-uhn.  

## Riddikulus  

This Boggart-Banishing Charm might look very similar to the word ridiculous but is it pronounced the same too? It is very close. Banish a Boggart by pronouncing it as Rih-DIH-KUL-lus. and you won't look, well, ridiculous.  

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## Skele-gro 

This potion might be rather unpleasant, but it is also rather useful – especially when an overzealous Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher vanishes all the bones in your arm. If you need to regrow any parts of your skeleton, just ask for a bottle of SKELL-ee-grow and you’ll be sorted. 

## Veritaserum  

Just a couple of drops of this truth potion and you’ll be spilling your darkest secrets to all and sundry. But let us let you in on a secret, we’ve often found ourselves saying this word incorrectly. However, the truthful way of saying this word is VERY-tuh-see-rum. 

## Voldemort  

‘Why have you included Voldemort on this list?’ we hear you cry. ‘Surely his name is simple enough to say?’ Well, you might be surprised to learn that most of us have probably been pronouncing the Dark Lord’s name wrong for years. Voldemort has its roots in French and contains a silent ‘t’. Yes, that’s right! You don’t say the ‘t’ at all. So let us introduce you to Lord VOLL-de-mawh. 

## Wizengamot 

The wizarding high court and parliament had an extremely important role in the magical world and counted a whole host of highly influential witches and wizards amongst its ranks (Albus Dumbledore was Chief Warlock don’t you know). We think an organisation with such gravitas deserves to be pronounced currently and here it is… WIZZ-en-GAMM-uht. 

*** 

So there you have it, just a few handy wizarding words to help you out in your enthusiastic Harry Potter conversations! 

And remember, you can always visit our [For Kids](https://www.startingharrypotter.com/) hub to learn more about the wonderful wizardry of the stories.

The Neville Longbottom crossword

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The Oliver Wood wordsearch

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Harry Potter 101: Quidditch part one

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__Quidditch__
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First thing first, let’s kick-off with a quick overview of what the game of [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) is. This is a wizarding sport played on broomsticks where two teams of seven face each other with the aim of scoring as many points as possible. Points can either be gained by scoring the Quaffle through the hoops at the end of the pitch or by catching the Golden Snitch. The game will only end once the Golden Snitch has been caught by the team’s Seeker. Fun fact! There are seven hundred ways to commit a foul in Quidditch and they all happened in one World Cup match in 1473.


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Ron is sitting in the Great Hall in his Quidditch robes. He is holding a goblet about to take a drink. 

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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## Equipment 

[__Quidditch pitch__](/fact-file/locations/quidditch-pitch)
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Well, you can’t have a game of Quidditch without a place to play it! Quidditch is played on an oval, grassy pitch with a set of three Quidditch hoops at each end. As the game is airborne, the surrounding stands (which house the fans) are raised so that spectators can get an unobstructed view of their favourite players executing a perfect Wronski Feint or Wollongong Shimmy.

__Goalposts__
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The goalposts at the end of the Quidditch pitch are a set of three individual hoops that rise up about fifty feet in the air (this really isn’t a sport for those afraid of heights). Harry once thought that they reminded him of ‘the little plastic sticks Muggle children blew bubbles through’… except the ones at Hogwarts were gold. 

__Broomstick__
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As a sport that takes place completely in the sky, there needs to be a way for players to remain firmly in the clouds. Luckily, every Quidditch player can achieve this by using a broomstick. Unlike their Muggle counterparts, which are more suited to sweeping, the wizarding version flies. There’s not just one type of broom a budding Quidditch player could buy from a shop like Quality Quidditch Supplies. No, no, there are a huge assortment from the humble Cleansweep Five to the top-of-the-range Firebolt.

[__Quaffle__](/fact-file/objects/quaffle)
</br>
This is the ball used by the team’s Chasers to score points. Round, red and similar in size to a football, each time it is thrown through the opposing team’s goalpost, it earns 10 points… That might sound like rather a lot but it’s nothing compared to what the teeny tiny Snitch will get you.

[__Golden Snitch__](/fact-file/objects/golden-snitch)
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Speaking of which, the Snitch is a tiny golden ball, the size of a walnut, with fluttering silver wings – how cute! Don’t be fooled by its diminutive size, according to Gryffindor Quidditch captain, Oliver Wood, it’s the most important ball on the pitch. Tiny and hard to see, once caught by a team’s Seeker the Quidditch match will end, and that team will be awarded 150 points – often (but not always) securing their victory.

Interestingly, when a Snitch is created, the makers have to wear gloves because they are designed to remember the first person who touches them – which certainly comes in handy when there are quarrels about which team caught it! 

[__Bludger__](/fact-file/objects/bludger)
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Now this is a ball that causes many Quidditch players a headache… and we mean that literally. Jet-black, slightly smaller than the Quaffle and with the ability to move around on its own, two Bludgers will zoom around the pitch during a game with the sole aim of knocking the players off their brooms. And that is why they *literally* cause headaches.


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## Positions

__Keeper__
</br>
The [Keeper](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/keeper) on a Quidditch team acts rather like a football goalie. There is one Keeper per team, and they are responsible for protecting the team’s goalposts at the end of the Quidditch pitch. Their aim is to stop the Chasers on the other team from scoring. Harry’ first Quidditch Captain, Oliver Wood, played this position with, let’s say, *unrivalled* enthusiasm.  

__Chaser__
</br>
There are three [Chasers](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/chaser) on each Quidditch team, and their job is to use the Quaffle to score goals by throwing them through one of the opposing team’s three hoops. Good teamwork is essential as the Chasers have to constantly throw the ball to one another, while dodging Bludgers and remaining on their brooms the entire time – which sounds rather stressful to us!

Interestingly, the role of Chaser is the oldest Quidditch position while others have changed slightly over the years (or were added in later). This is because the game was once much simpler – though probably less exciting – and focussed wholly on goalscoring. 

__Beater__ 
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Remember those Bludgers that liked to knock Quidditch players off their brooms? How would you avoid being stuck by one of them? Well, this is where the Beaters come in. There are two on every Quidditch team and their job is to stop the Bludgers from hitting their teammates. They do this by using a bat to knock them off course and towards the opposing team. This is one of the most physically demanding positions, and not one suited to clumsy types. Beaters need to have exceptional balance because they sometimes need to take both hands off their broom.

__Seeker__
</br>
The role of [Seeker](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/seeker) is often filled by the lightest and fastest member of the Quidditch team – excellent eyesight doesn’t go amiss either. A Seeker’s purpose is to catch the Golden Snitch, ending the match and securing 150 points for their team. While the role of Seeker is often considered glamourous (and they’re often the best fliers on the pitch), they’re also the player most likely to be fouled and sustain injuries. In Brutus Scrimgeour’s book, *The Beaters Bible*, rule number one is ‘Take out the Seeker’!

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Harry Potter is hovering on his broomstick, on the Quidditch pitch and wearing his Quidditch robes.

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## Notable tournaments

__Inter-house Quidditch tournament__
</br>
This was a tournament played by the four house teams at Hogwarts. Throughout the season, they would all play each other in various matches. At the end of the season, the house that had accumulated the most points would win and lift the [Quidditch Cup](/fact-file/objects/the-quidditch-cup) – a huge honour. It was Oliver Wood’s biggest dream to win this and put his team through rigorous training drills (despite their complaints) to try and make this a reality.

__Quidditch World Cup__
</br>
This is a tournament held every four years, where Quidditch teams from around the world compete against each other in the hope of winning the World Cup. It was first held in 1473… though the first couple of centuries of the tournament only included teams that hailed from Europe. Harry had the chance to watch the 422nd final of the Quidditch World Cup in 1994 – a nail-biting showdown between Ireland and Bulgaria (though a lot of the action took place off the pitch).

__Quidditch League__
</br>
The Quidditch League of Britain and Ireland was formed in 1674 and consists of thirteen Quidditch teams. Interestingly, the League was established to try and limit the amount of Quidditch games held each year, so Muggles wouldn’t become suspicious. While amateur games of Quidditch are still allowed (such as the games played at Hogwarts), once the thirteen top teams were selected, all others were asked to disband. Despite their terrible losing streak (they haven’t won since 1892), Ron’s favourite team, the [Chudley Cannons](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-chudley-cannons) are a member of this League. 

__European Cup__
</br>
Established in 1652, the European Cup is made up of Quidditch teams from all across, you guessed it, Europe. The tournament is held every three years. Out of all the European teams, the most renowned are probably the Bulgarian Vratsa Vultures who are not only thrilling to watch but have won the cup seven times!

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Luna walking in to the Great Hall wearing a giant and extravagant lion headdress 

The Hogwarts letter crossword

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Vernon Dursley sat at the kitchen table holding Harry's Hogwarts letter. Petunia and Dudley are both looking over his shoulder. All three look surprised and concerned.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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and the Philosopher's Stone 

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