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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

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[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

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

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

Magical objects of the wizarding world

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Magical Objects background

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[Full size version](http://images.pottermore.com/bxd3o8b291gf/3YzibM5RIkgkqqqmCWaIKq/d6c845aa3a8c869f7fd76c009d850989/PottermoreMagicalObjects.jpg)

You can pick up your own print [here.](https://www.popchartlab.com/products/magical-objects-of-the-wizarding-world)

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

Why Christmas at Hogwarts is better than any other

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## There’s a good chance it’ll be a white Christmas 

It always seems to snow at Hogwarts in December, making it a prime time for snow and snowball fights. 

> One morning in mid-December, Hogwarts woke to find itself covered in several feet of snow. The Weasley twins were punished for bewitching several snowballs so that they followed Quirrell around, bouncing off the back of his turban.  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## There’s the promise of Butterbeer  

After everyone has tired themselves out in the snow and returned to the common room exhausted and cold, there would be a nice, warming Butterbeer waiting – if the Weasleys have anything to do with it. 

> Harry drank deeply. It was the most delicious thing he had ever tasted and seemed to heat every bit of him from the inside.  
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*  

## It has Christmas baubles like you’ve never seen

Because nobody can create Christmas decorations like the teachers of Hogwarts; unravelling tinsel from an old cardboard box will never quite compare.

> ‘Oh yeah, you’re right,’ said Ron, tearing his eyes away from Professor Flitwick, who had golden bubbles blossoming out of his wand and was trailing them over the branches of a new tree.  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

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## There are absolutely enormous Christmas trees

Where else would you find 12 Christmas trees so big that a half-giant is needed to carry them in?

> When they left the dungeons at the end of Potions, they found a large fir tree blocking the corridor ahead. Two enormous feet sticking out at the bottom and a loud puffing sound told them Hagrid was behind it.  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## The Great Hall is the perfect Christmas venue

The Great Hall is one of the finest places to tuck into a Christmas dinner. 

> No one, not even someone dreading taking Polyjuice Potion later, could fail to enjoy Christmas dinner at Hogwarts.  
> The Great Hall looked magnificent. Not only were there a dozen frost-covered Christmas trees and thick streamers of holly and mistletoe criss-crossing the ceiling, but enchanted snow was falling, warm and dry, from the ceiling.  
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

## Wizarding festive food is amazing

While on the [subject of food](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/the-deliciously-detailed-foodographic), the festive feasts at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry are like none other. Sorry, Mrs Weasley!

> A hundred fat, roast turkeys, mountains of roast and boiled potatoes, platters of fat chipolatas, tureens of buttered peas, silver boats of thick, rich gravy and cranberry sauce...  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

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## Wizard crackers are even better

They really make Christmas at Hogwarts a *blast.*

> Harry pulled a wizard cracker with Fred and it didn’t just bang, it went off with a blast like a canon and engulfed them all in a cloud of blue smoke, while from the inside exploded a rear-admiral’s hat and several live white mice.  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

[Speaking of Christmas crackers, we wrote some of our own Christmas cracker jokes!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/web-wizarding-world-christmas-cracker-jokes)

## You can enjoy Hogwarts to yourself

With everyone else home for the holidays, enjoy the extra space!

> They had the dormitory to themselves and the common room was far emptier than usual, so they were able to get the good armchairs by the fire. They sat by the hour eating anything they could spear on a toasting fork – bread, crumpets, marshmallows – and plotting ways of getting Malfoy expelled, which were fun to talk about even if they wouldn’t work.  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## You can enjoy a sing-a-long-a-Dumbledore

Carol singing with Dumbledore and Hagrid would be quite the experience.

> Dumbledore led them in a few of his favourite carols, Hagrid booming more and more loudly with every goblet of eggnog he consumed.  
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

All they want for Christmas: A Harry Potter gift guide

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An illustration of a snowy Hogsmeade and the exterior of the Three Broomsticks.

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A snowy Hogsmeade with Hermione Ron and an invisible Harry.

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## Rubeus Hagrid: a new recipe book

A very well-meaning cook, [Hagrid](/image/an-apron-clad-hagrid) could nonetheless use a few pointers in the kitchen if his jaw-breaking rock cakes are anything to go by. [Mrs Weasley](/features/molly-weasley "Molly Weasley") could undoubtedly recommend a good one. He’d probably prefer a [dragon](/features/dragons "Dragons"), though.

## Gilderoy Lockhart: a framed picture of himself
With his dazzling smile and coiffed blonde locks, [Lockhart](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart") never lost his love of signing his own pictures, even when he ended up in [St. Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries](/writing-by-jk-rowling/illness-and-disability), so he would be delighted with another framed photo of those pearly whites.

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## Mr Weasley: a Muggle computer
Good old [Arthur](/features/arthur-weasley "Arthur Weasley") just can’t help himself when it comes to [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles") artefacts – they’re a real source of wonder to him. So imagine his excitement if he was given a Muggle computer. Not only do they run on ‘[eckeltricity](/writing-by-jk-rowling/technology "Technology by J.K. Rowling")’, they also have plenty of wires to keep him occupied. Of course, he’d probably end up bewitching it in some way and having to hide it in his shed in case Molly ever found out. 

## Ron Weasley: new dress robes
[Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") did ask the Weasley twins to buy [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") a new set after he gifted them both his Triwizard Tournament winnings, but we never actually saw them. So just to make sure that poor old Ron never has to wear that [frilly maroon monstrosity](/image/dress-robes) again, a sleek, black stylish cloak would be just the thing.

## Hermione Granger: a trip to the British Library
Her constant refrain of ‘I’m going to the library’ almost became her catchphrase, and there are few wizarding books [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") hasn’t read –  even the ones she’s not strictly supposed to have access to. The only thing is, a day out at this wondrous institution probably wouldn’t be long enough for [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts")’ resident bookworm.

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## Professor McGonagall: a tin of shortbread
The head of [Gryffindor](/collection/all-about-gryffindor "Hogwarts houses: Gryffindor") is a woman of simple tastes, but she does keep a jar of biscuits on her desk, so she must enjoy the odd [treat](/feature/sweets-and-treats-infographic "Sweets and treats from the wizarding world") or two. With a nod to her [Scottish roots](/writing-by-jk-rowling/professor-mcgonagall), a slab of buttery shortbread would no doubt raise one of [Professor McGonagall’s](/features/minerva-mcgonagall "Minerva McGonagall") rare smiles.  

## Albus Dumbledore: a new pair of socks
[Dumbledore](/features/albus-dumbledore "Albus Dumbledore") told Harry that when he looked in the [Mirror of Erised](/features/the-mirror-of-erised "The Mirror of Erised") he saw himself holding a new pair of thick woollen socks, because one can never have enough socks. Although he may not have been entirely truthful, it does make the task of what to get the wizard-who-has-everything much easier. Socks it is. And we’ll chuck in a bowl of Liquorice Wands for his sweet tooth too.

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The best (and worst) Christmas gifts Harry ever received

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When Harry learned he was a wizard and made friends with people with better gift-giving skills than the Dursleys, his stocking got filled with slightly more interesting stuff. Here are the best and worst presents he ever received for Christmas...

__A 50-pence piece – The Dursleys__  
You’ve got to admire the amount of effort the Dursleys would go to to actually not make an effort – it’s quite a skill. During Harry’s first Christmas away from his adopted family, Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia made sure Harry knew that they hadn’t forgotten about him. They sent him a 50-pence piece – a gift that says: ‘We paid more for postage and packaging than the actual gift.’

__A wooden flute – Hagrid__  
This wooden flute came to Harry in his first year from Hagrid. As well as just being a thoughtful, hand-made gift, this also happened to be the only thing in the world that could overpower a giant, three-headed dog. Well, the only one we know about. 

__Christmas jumper – Mrs Weasley__  
Harry became an honorary member of the Weasleys. He might not have had the trademark flaming red hair, but Molly always made him feel like part of the clan with a token woolly jumper. 

__The Invisibility Cloak – James Potter__  
Inherited rather than gifted but so important to Harry, the Invisibility Cloak was the first thing he received that belonged to his father. Harry didn’t know then how important this cloak would prove, beyond sneaking into the Restricted Section of Hogwarts library.

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__Polyjuice Potion – Hermione__  
An invitation to turn into Crabbe and Goyle, during Christmas, for a cunning plan. Okay, so this wasn't a *present*, per se...

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__A toothpick – The Dursleys__  
To be fair, toothpicks are pretty useful.  

__‘Flying with the Cannons’ – Ron__  
An informative book stuffed with thrilling facts about the UK Quidditch team, The Chudley Cannons.  

__Dog biscuits – Aunt Marge__  
Because sometimes... Nope, there’s no way to reason with this one.

__The Marauder’s Map – Fred and George__  
An early gift from Fred and George saw Harry bestowed with perhaps the most useful map in the world – and it just so happened to have been created by his dad, and [a couple of good friends.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-marauders)

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Harry locates the One Eyed Witch using the Maurauder's Map.

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__Nut brittle – Mrs Weasley__  
Molly was always on hand with the best festive sweets & treats. 

__The Firebolt – Sirius Black__  
It just so happened that the escaped wizard everyone was worried about in *Prisoner of Azkaban* was actually a very nice fellow called Sirius Black, who got Harry his dream [broomstick](/writing-by-jk-rowling/firebolt "Firebolt by J.K. Rowling") for Christmas. Don’t you love it when that happens?

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__Socks – Dobby__  
It is scientific fact that at least once in every person’s life, they will have opened a Christmas present and that Christmas present will have been socks. Harry Potter is no exception. But these were from renowned sock-lover Dobby the house-elf, which wasn’t the least bit odd. Although the socks were.

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Dobby holds the sock which grants his freedom from the Malfoys.

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__A single tissue – The Dursleys__  
A treat for a cold in the winter and hay-fever in the summer – is it us, or did the Dursleys get softer in their old age?  

__‘Quidditch Teams of Britain and Ireland’ – Hermione__  
A great read, and a perfect gift for the Quidditch-daft Harry. Great work, [Granger](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger").

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__A penknife – Sirius Black__  
Complete with attachments to unlock any lock. 

__A guilt-inducing homework diary – Hermione__  
When opened, the diary offers such phrases as ‘Do it today, or later you'll pay!’ How fun.

__‘Practical Defensive Magic and its Use Against the Dark Arts’ – Sirius and Lupin__  
A handy set of spell books for vanquishing Dark lords, or people who wear huge, annoying backpacks on packed buses. Alright, we may have added that last part. 

__A brown wallet with fangs – Hagrid__  
Because wallets that don’t try to attack you whenever you put money in them are so passé.

__A model of a tiny Firebolt – Tonks__  
Do not try riding this unless you are very small also.

__A hand-painted portrait of Harry – Dobby__  
A new ‘Mona Lisa’ for the ages. Or as Fred Weasley called it, ‘a gibbon with two black eyes’.

__Maggots – Kreacher__  
Perhaps he had Harry down as a fervent fishing enthusiast?

The MACUSA seal and other emblems of the wizarding world

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There is, however, a darker side. Some may be calculated to frighten enemies – think of the [Black family](/features/black-family-tree "The Black family tree") crest, adorned with skulls and the legend ‘Toujours pur’ (‘always pure’).

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Black Family Tapestry Mina Lima

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Historically, ‘standards’ were used to help identify combatants on the battlefield. The act of replacing or desecrating a rival standard was seen as a potent act of aggression. Think of the moment in *Deathly Hallows* when [Voldemort](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort") threatened ‘There will be no more houses. The emblem, shield and colours of my noble ancestor, [Salazar Slytherin](/features/salazar-slytherin "Salazar Slytherin"), will suffice for everyone…’

Some are straightforward to interpret: the emblem for [St Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries](/features/st-mungos "St Mungo’s Hospital"), for instance, is described in *Order of the Phoenix* as a crossed bone and wand, which suggests enchanted healing. The [Dark Mark’s](/features/morsmordre "Morsmordre") prominent skull is uncompromising and ominous. The [Deathly Hallows](/features/the-deathly-hallows "The Deathly Hallows") symbol is simple enough to decipher, once you know how.

Let’s take a look at some of the more elaborate icons, designed by MinaLima – the graphic artists for the Harry Potter movies – explain their significance and point out some parallels with some real-world symbols.

## The MACUSA seal

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This circular seal bears a passing resemblance to the [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles") Seal of the President of the United States, with a few crucial differences. The central bird is a [phoenix](/features/phoenixes "Phoenixes"), which typically represents resurrection and immortality, as opposed to the eagle, which on the Seal of the President suggests authority and judicial power. 

The [MACUSA](/features/macusa "MACUSA") design has a confidence and grandeur that reflects the American wizarding world.

*Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them* is set in 1926, and eagle-eyed history experts may notice that there are 48 stars on the seal. Alaska and Hawaii had yet to become part of the United States at this point in history.

## Hogwarts

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Hogwarts Crest Mina Lima

Hogwarts Crest by the designers Mina Lima

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Based on the coat of arms described in the Harry Potter books, the central shield (or, ‘escutcheon’, if you want to know the fancy term) within the [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts") coat of arms is divided into four, with each quarter representing one of the [founders](/features/stories-of-the-hogwarts-founders "The stories of the Hogwarts founders"): Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw and Salazar Slytherin. 

For bonus points, an item like the separate ‘H’ in the middle is known in heraldry as an ‘escutcheon of pretence’.

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Dexter and sinister in heraldry

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Imagine it were an actual shield. To the person holding it, the left side (known in Latin as ‘sinister’) has Slytherin on it. The right (‘dexter’) side is conventionally seen by heraldry as being the most noble, and it’s interesting to note that [Gryffindor](/features/godric-gryffindor "Godric Gryffindor") is on that side.

## Durmstrang

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Durmstrang Crest Mina Lima

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[Durmstrang’s](/features/durmstrang-institute "Durmstrang Institute") crest is packed with symbolic significance. A double-headed eagle traditionally symbolises a ruling faction’s supremacy over both church and state. 

Durmstrang is believed to be located in the far north of Europe, so it’s not surprising that many European influences have been used in this crest design. For example, the name of the school is embossed in both Latin and Cyrillic script, a practice in that region. Similarly, the onion dome backdrop is a prominent feature in Muggle Russian architecture – think of the Kremlin. 

Finally, the stag’s head is traditionally associated with peace and harmony, although in this case it may be more to do with prowess in deer hunting.

## Beauxbatons

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Beauxbatons Crest Mina Lima

Image of Beauxbatons Crest from the designers Mina Lima

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The name translates as ‘beautiful sticks’, and their crest is just as elegant – two crossed wands can be seen at the top of the design. These crossed wands were seen by [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") on the door [Beauxbatons](/features/beauxbatons-academy "Beauxbatons Academy") carriage in *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*.

In heraldry, crossed swords pointing up indicate preparedness for battle, whereas pointing downwards they imply a major battle has been won. In essence: don’t mess with us. The significance of both wands facing upwards seems rather clear. 

The design also has a beguiling, asymmetric natural border called ‘rococo’: a popular form of French decorative art.

## Ministry of Magic

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Ministry Logo Black Mina Lima

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A straightforward, some would say workmanlike, letter ‘M’. Note the ‘serifs’; projections which extend from the corners of the letter and subtly imply power and importance. A [wand](/features/wands "Wands") is placed dead-centre, making it clear that magic is their business.

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Wizengamot colour Mina Lima

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When integrated into the Wizengamot symbol, a set of scales (near-universal symbols for justice), and a Latin motto – ignorantia juris neminem excusat (‘ignorance of the rules is no excuse’) are incorporated. 

Just as with the serif, Latin adds a little more gravitas and significance.

## Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes

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Weasleys Wizard Wheezes Logo Mina Lima

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A lovely mirror image for the [Weasley twins’](/features/weasleys-wizard-wheezes "Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes") business. It’s simple but with an explosive touch in the middle – their speciality, of course.

Badges and emblems of the wizarding world

Strange spells you may have forgotten about

PMARCHIVE-Strange spells you may have forgotten about

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## Geminio

For the wizard that doesn’t have enough: here’s a way to have two of everything you own. Potentially useful for couples’ anniversary gifts.

> ‘Hermione, we’re surrounded by Dementors!’  
> ‘I know that, Harry, but if she wakes up and the locket’s gone – I need to duplicate it … Geminio! There … that should fool her …’  
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## Langlock

Excellent for reducing awkward small-talk at dinner parties is ‘Langlock’ – one of the unorthodox spells Harry learns from the Half-Blood Prince. With this nifty hex, the spell glues the speaker’s tongue to the roof of their mouth, thus protecting the listener from the ludicrous statements they were no doubt making. What a surprise Severus Snape invented this.

> Harry aimed his wand at Peeves and said, ‘Langlock!’ Peeves clutched at his throat, gulped, then swooped from the room making obscene gestures but unable to speak, owing to the fact that his tongue had just glued itself to the roof of his mouth.  
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

## Orchideous 

Don’t be put off by the word ‘hideous’ in the name – this is in fact a lovely spell that causes flowers to burst out of the tip of your wand. Very handy for amateur Muggle magicians, and last-minute Valentine’s Day gifters.

> Mr Ollivander ran his fingers along the wand, apparently checking for scratches or bumps; then he muttered, ‘Orchideous!’ and a bunch of flowers burst from the wand tip.  
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

## The Refilling Charm

This charm, as you may expect, magically refills the glass of the drinker, with any beverage of their choice. Perhaps it’s for the best that we don’t know the official incantation for this one…

> Harry had not yet managed to bring off the Refilling Charm without saying the incantation aloud, but the idea that he might not be able to do it tonight was laughable: indeed, Harry grinned to himself as, unnoticed by either Hagrid or Slughorn (now swapping tales of the illegal trade in dragon eggs), he pointed his wand under the table at the emptying bottles and they immediately began to refill.  
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

## Glisseo

Stairs are boring, aren’t they? It’s just one step after another. Never mind, because ‘Glisseo’ is the spell that transforms staircases into slides. It can be used in serious events, such as evading Death Eaters, or simply to give your home a bit of an edge at your next house party. 

> Two masked Death Eaters stood there, but even before their wands were fully raised, Hermione shouted, ‘Glisseo!’  
> The stairs beneath their feet flattened into a chute and she, Harry and Ron hurtled down it, unable to control their speed but so fast that the Death Eaters’ Stunning Spells flew far over their heads.  
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* 

## Tarantallegra 

A spell that will come very much in handy if you suddenly realise you haven’t practised for your annual tap dancing competition. Simply cast ‘Tarantallegra’, and the user will automatically become a virtuoso Lord of the Dance. 

> Gasping for breath, Malfoy pointed his wand at Harry’s knees, choked, ‘Tarantallegra!’ and next second Harry’s legs had begun to jerk around out of his control in a kind of quickstep.  
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

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