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Harry, Hermione and Ron casting revealed for Harry Potter HBO Original Series 

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Here they are! Your brand-new Harry, Hermione and Ron – who will star as the three best friends in the upcoming TV show – have now been revealed. 

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Francesca Gardiner (showrunner, executive producer) and Mark Mylod (director of multiple episodes, executive producer) spoke of the casting after seeing “tens of thousands” of children audition for the parts.

“After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It's been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

The open casting call for the trio opened in September last year, and in December, [Mark Mylod revealed they had already seen 30,000 budding young actors](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/production-details-and-location-revealed-for-harry-potter-tv-series) trying out for the coveted roles.

The three young actors will join a [plethora of TV and film stars](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hogwarts-staff-members-confirmed-for-harry-potter-hbo-series) that are beginning to make up the full cast of the series. They will combine forces with John Lithgow as Professor Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch and Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell.

Hogwarts is beginning to look pretty full indeed. 

***

[The series](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far) will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved “Harry Potter” book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters “Harry Potter” fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring “Harry Potter” and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.

The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

***

__The Harry Potter TV series will be a HBO Original and will premiere on HBO Max. [Learn more about HBO Max right here, and see if it's available in your territory here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/how-to-stream-harry-potter-wherever-you-are)__

Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery reveals Hogwarts Harvest feature for 2025  

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Get green-fingered with Hogwarts Mystery’s latest fun addition, which invites you to potter about (pun absolutely intended) in a special greenhouse and nurture magical plants for rewards.

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The unlockable feature (available to Year 2 students who have completed Chapter 1, Part 5) invites you to “The Outskirts Greenhouse” at Professor Dumbledore and Professor Sprout’s request. There, you’ll serve as the greenhouse’s official caretaker, where you can help harvest magical plants and pick up exclusive goodies.

The trick to gardening is patience: in your special greenhouse, you’ll have to water and fertilise your plants regularly to help them grow. You’ll come across some familiar magical flora from the Harry Potter stories, such as Mimbulus Mimbletonia and Venomous Tentacula, among others.  
There will be more plants and more customisation options coming soon to keep growing your greenhouse throughout the year. Stay tuned!  

*** 

This June is also bringing budding, summer romance to Hogwarts with a Pride outfit giveaway, starting on 1st June, and a romantic, new Special Adventure to look forward to. A new Hogwarts Diary event also brings exciting new rewards to unlock as you race to find Salazar Slytherin’s secret treasure.  

It’s all to come!  

[Check the official website to download or simply learn more about this fabulous mobile game.](https://www.harrypotterhogwartsmystery.com/)

A closer look at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

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[Snap up tickets or learn more about the attractions - right this way!](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp) 

## Quite an epic entrance

Your portal to five different immersive worlds, including Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, and Dark Universe. And of course... The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic! Even just the entrance looks pretty! 

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## Le Cirque Arcanus

Roll up, roll up: this boombastic wizarding circus is inspired by scenes from *Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald*. You'll be in for quite a show. Expect live performers, amazing puppetry, dazzling special effects and more.

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## Travel via the Métro-Floo 

A tres chic way to get around... this Parisian Metro station is inspired by the real life subways you see in the French capital. Take this route to traverse through wizarding Paris into the Ministry of Magic area.

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## The stylings of Wizarding Paris 

Wind back the clock to the 1920s and enjoy a number of gorgeous shops and cafes, all inspired by the look and feel of Paris in the past. 

Soak in all the little details and even pick up a wand to try out some interactive experiences on the streets.

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## Encounter fantastic magical creatures

Channel your inner Magizoologist and check out some beautiful creations, as seen in the Fantastic Beasts series. We're particularly enamoured by this fluffy (yet deadly!) [Zouwu.](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/zouwu)

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## Absorb every detail at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

From the brickwork to the statues to every magical prop... this is the Ministry of Magic, the UK wizarding government headquarters you will know all-too-well from the Harry Potter series. We loved spotting these Auror portraits, for example - especially a welcome homage to [Neville's brave parents.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/unsung-heroes-of-harry-potter-stories-frank-and-alice-longbottom) 

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## Niffler in the window!

This is not a drill! As seen in the first Fantastic Beasts movie, we're always thrilled to bump into these adorable fuzzy thieves. Talk about taking 'window shopping' literally.

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## Search through the merch

Epic Universe visitors will get to browse exclusive goodies, created especially for the park. From international school robes to Ministry of Magic paraphernalia, we're in purple paradise with this collection.

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## J'adore la musique

As the great Professor Dumbledore once said, music is "a magic beyond all we do here" - and he wasn't wrong. In 1920s Wizarding Paris, enjoy the retro pleasures of this jazzy band and watch out for a special appearance from a lovely Puffskein called Plume! Our hearts!

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## A moment of appreciation for this architecture

The '20s Parisian spirit of many of the cafes, bars and shops you'll discover is truly breathtaking. Be sure to take in the marble details, paintings and romantic lights. You'll genuinely feel like you've been transported to another life!

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__The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is now open at Universal Epic Universe. Visit the [official website](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp) for more information and tickets!__

Stay up to date with the latest Wizarding World news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet.

Get the latest Harry Potter news here. Faster than an owl and more accurate than the Daily Prophet

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Inside the new Warner Bros. Studio Tour London feature celebrating 20 years of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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__UPDATE:__ To celebrate the opening of Making of Champions, a full-scale (not to mention scaly!) Hungarian Horntail dragon is going on a UK tour! [Fly this way for more details.](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hungarian-horntail-takes-over-london-for-studio-tour-summer-stunt)

Can you believe this November will mark the 20th anniversary of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* being released in cinemas? Two whole decades since we first watched the champions be chosen? Luckily, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has the perfect way to celebrate this milestone with their brand-new feature dedicated to the fourth film.  

Last night we had the chance to admire all the additions to the Studio Tour – from filmmaking secrets to creating our own origami dragon – here are just a handful of our highlights…

## It’s all about those first impressions
The moment we stepped into the Studio Tour, we were transported back to the magic of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* – from the champions in the lobby to the Experience Corridor that left us feeling like we were in the maze from the third task. And that was all before we got to witness the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) in all its fourth film glory – bringing [Mad-Eye Moody’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/alastor-mad-eye-moody) arrival to life with dazzling lights and sound effects. 


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## We uncovered some secrets at the new Backlot Stage 
This was a new addition that we couldn’t wait to see – and it didn’t disappoint. For the first time ever, the Studio Tour have introduced their new Backlot Stage that showcases the Secrets of Special Effects. If you’ve ever wondered just how filmmakers were able to create a [Hungarian Horntail](/fact-file/creatures/hungarian-horntail) or film a task that takes place entirely underwater, you won’t want to miss this. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of our evening. We don’t want to spoil the magic, but we will say that plenty of behind-the-scenes secrets were spilled… and you’ll never look at the second Triwizard task in the same way again. 


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## [Beauxbatons](/fact-file/locations/beauxbatons-academy) and [Durmstrang](/fact-file/locations/durmstrang-institute) show their school spirit
Who can forget the scene where we first met the other two schools competing for the [Triwizard Cup](/fact-file/objects/the-triwizard-cup)? Their choreographed routines? Iconic. Yesterday, we got to relive that moment with a demonstration reminiscent of their arrival – and you definitely wouldn’t call their dance moves ‘Krum-my’! We always loved their school robes (they’re better than any [Muggle](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) uniform) and were pleased to learn more about what went into creating their memorable looks. 


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## Do you dare to put your name in the Goblet of Fire?
Keep hold of your Activity Passport – it could be the key to your own eternal glory. In the wand room we plucked up the courage to put our own names into the [Goblet of Fire](/fact-file/objects/the-goblet-of-fire) (using a special page from the Passport). Are you worthy of becoming a champion? Ok, you might not end up in an actual [Triwizard Tournament](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament), but other rewards await…


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## A few familiar faces
Dotted around the Studio Tour were plenty of easter eggs for fourth film fans and we had a lot of fun trying to pick out all the details. We spotted [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) in the [Forbidden Forest](/fact-file/locations/the-forbidden-forest) – recreating the scene where Hagrid revealed a few *important* first task details. [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) poised and ready to practice his dance moves in the Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory – we’ll always give him top marks for enthusiasm. And even [Rita Skeeter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rita-skeeter) with her poison pen (ok, Quick-Quotes Quill) – her stories were horrible, but her outfits were spectacular.

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## We got to make our own dragon!
Who doesn’t love a dragon? We know we’ve always admired these fearsome beasts. On [Platform 9 ¾](/fact-file/locations/platform-nine-and-three-quarters) we had the chance to put our origami skills to the test – creating a dragon of our very own to bring home! Unlike the Hungarian Horntail that Harry faced, the worst thing this dragon could do is give us a papercut not accidentally incinerate us. 


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## Speaking of dragons… 
On Monday, London had a fiery friend roaming the streets in celebration of the launch of the Studio Tour’s new Triwizard Tournament feature. Did you spot the Hungarian Horntail in transit – whizzing past landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and King’s Cross Station before returning to its rightful home at the Studio Tour? Did you witness its fearsome roar as it tried to escape its chains? This huge (1.3 tonne), animatronic dragon was quite the spectacle. Don’t worry if you missed it – you can [read all about this dragon adventure right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/hungarian-horntail-takes-over-london-for-studio-tour-summer-stunt).


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Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions will run from 15th May – 8th September and all new features are included in the ticket price. 

For more information or to book tickets, don’t forget to [check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London website.
](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-launch-2025)

Pre-order Hogwarts Legacy on Nintendo Switch 2 

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Yes, gaming aficionados amongst you will be all too aware of the upcoming launch of Nintendo Switch 2, the evolution of the Nintendo Switch, which first launched in 2017.

On 24th April, Hogwarts Legacy for Switch 2 will be [available for pre-order right here](https://go.wbgames.com/HLPurchase) -  and you can even check out this handy comparison video to see how the game will look on the new console. 

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How on earth you fit an entire wizarding castle into such a tiny thing continues to bewitch us, but perhaps the good folks down at WB Games and Avalanche have mastered the Undetectable Extension Charm.  

*** 

Here's the changes to look out for if you want to play Hogwarts Legacy on Nintendo Switch 2. 

## Improved Visuals

Experience deeper immersion with significantly upgraded graphics, including DLSS support, improved lighting, shadows, animation quality, anti-aliasing, just to name a few. 

## Smoother Traversal

Seamlessly traverse the open-world and cross into Hogsmeade and its shops without loading screens! 

## Increased Flight Speed

Soar over the Hogwarts grounds and beyond with smoother frame rates and faster load
times thanks to performance upgrades on Nintendo Switch 2. 

## Improved Resolution

Experience improved resolution of up to 1440p and HDR in docked mode with a compatible TV and up to 1080p in handheld mode.

## Joy-Con 2 Controllers as Mouse Support

Play how you want with the option to use the Joy-Con 2 Controllers as Mouse functionality. 

We’ll keep you posted when Hogwarts Legacy becomes available for Nintendo Switch 2 – but for now, you can learn more about the open-world game at our [official hub](https://www.harrypotter.com/hogwarts-legacy) – and even learn how to [link accounts with us!](https://www.harrypotter.com/legacyconnect)

Hungarian Horntail takes over London to celebrate the Studio Tour's new Triwizard Tournament feature - and will soon to go on tour!

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__UPDATE: Today we can reveal that the Hungarian Horntail is going on tour in the UK! Check out if you can expect to see the fiery fiend at a location near you right here.__

[Visit the official Warner Bros. Studio Tour site for more details.](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/dragon-tour/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=dragon-tour)

20th May – London (Secret location to be revealed) | 8am – 7pm <br>

22nd May – Bullring & Grand Central, Birmingham | 10am – 9pm <br>

24th May – Trafford Centre, Manchester | 10am – 9pm <br>

26th May – Briggate, Leeds | 9am – 8pm <br> 

28th May – Liverpool ONE, Liverpool | 10am – 9pm <br>

30th May (Afternoon only) – Castle Street, Edinburgh | 1pm – 9pm <br>

31st May – Castle Street, Edinburgh | 9am – 8pm <br>

***

Where's Hagrid when you need him?! 

Londoners and tourists alike were treated to a full-scale (not to mention, scaly) dragon display in the UK capital this week, as a 25 foot animatronic Hungarian Horntail was seen traversing through Westminster Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and King’s Cross Station. 


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To celebrate the 20th anniversary of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is ushering in the summer with their new [Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions feature](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-2025), focusing on the historic competition that takes place at Hogwarts during the fourth Harry Potter film. And yes, as you might have guessed, that involves a certain dragon-themed task.

Thankfully, unlike the dragons Harry and his fellow Triwizard Champions had to face, this one was safely still in his box. Well, mostly.

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Harry Potter filmmaker and Animatronic Designer, Joe Scott, designed the dragon, replicating the creature in the film, complete with moving head, mouth and eyes, and sound effects.

The skilled recreation of the Hungarian Horntail was carefully crafted over 750 hours, using materials that included 25kg of fiberglass. The team first created a series of detailed sketches and CGI mock-ups, before Sculptors, Carpenters and Scenic Artists meticulously built the dragon's head, which was 3D printed using a scan of the original beast from the film.

A total of 119 spikes were individually applied to garnish the dragon’s head and tail, taking 265 painstaking hours, whilst 38 razor sharp teeth were 3D printed in resin to create bite in the creature’s animatronic mouth. 

Sounds like...quite the mouthful! 

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The [Hungarian Horntail](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/hungarian-horntail) is known as one of the most dangerous-ever dragon breeds in the wizarding world - and also happened to be the one that Harry Potter was tasked with overcoming for the first Triwizard Tournament task. Figures!

[You can learn much more about how the Triwizard Tournament came to life at the Studio Tour this summer right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/warner-bros-studio-tour-london-launches-goblet-of-fire-feature-for-2025) - coming to London and Tokyo. You're bound to have a roar-some time.

***

__Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions will run from 15th May – 8th September and all new features are included in the ticket price.__

__[Soar along to the official website to learn more!](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/whats-on/triwizard?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=triwizard-tournament-2025)__

Bloomsbury announce new theme for Harry Potter Book Day 2025: Friends and Foes!

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Grab some round spectacles or some white-Voldemort-style face paint... this year's Harry Potter Book Day theme celebrates the light and shade of the wizarding world. 

As such, Bloomsbury's event kit for 2025 will be packed full of creative and exciting activities that celebrate the deep friendships in the Harry Potter books - as well as the Dark feuds and more deadly characters... 

Harry Potter Book Day is a chance for fans around the globe to celebrate J.K. Rowling’s iconic series with events, parties and other festivities. Every year, Bloomsbury creates a special free, downloadable event kit, jam-packed with more decoration, food, costume, activity and game ideas than you can shake a wand at! Of course, you can use the event kit or create your own magical activities for the day too - get creative and have fun. 

[Last year](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/bloomsbury-reveal-harry-potter-book-day-2024) saw 17,000 event kit registrations from 131 different territories – Harry Potter Book Day is truly a global celebration for everyone. 

Harry Potter World Book Day Teaser | 2025

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So, whether you are a bookshop, library, school or simply a group of friends wanting to celebrate - get involved. The event kit has activities for readers of all ages, and is suitable for lifelong superfans to young readers just beginning their Harry Potter journey.  

Visit [www.HarryPotterBookDay.com](https://www.HarryPotterBookDay.com) to sign up. The event kit and other assets will be released later in the summer.  

## And a reminder for schools ...!   

A special virtual headline event hosted by Harry Potter film star Evanna Lynch is still available, together with classroom resources.   Created in partnership with Twinkl and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, this completely free, 35-minute video includes a: 

  •  Magical Places creative writing session from the Great Hall 

  •  How To Draw Hogwarts session with Evanna and Harry Potter illustrator Jonny Duddle 

  •  Spellcasting class from platform nine and three-quarters 

Perfect for children age 7+, the lesson and resources can be found on [Twinkl’s website.](https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/twinkl-partnerships/harry-potter/book-day)

***

We can't wait to *Accio party hat* and join in the celebrations!

Your ultimate guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter  – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe

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__UPDATE: Universal Epic Universe is now open! [Go here for ticket details!](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp)__

## Yes, you'll get to explore the British Ministry of Magic 

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The clue is in the title! Park visitors can immerse themselves inside the walls of the most powerful organisation in wizarding Britain, the Ministry of Magic. And it’s absolutely crammed with details: Daily Prophet newspapers, Ministry of Magic paraphernalia, and brutalist architecture. Every Room and departments  that you know from the books and films can be found in this huge recreation, including some you haven’t seen before, such as the mysterious Time Room, the Department of Magical Creatures and much more. 

[You can dive even deeper right here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/universal-epic-universe-ministry-of-magic-attraction-sneak-peek)

## AND traverse the streets of wizarding Paris

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Inspired by Newt Scamander’s brief sojourn to France in *Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald*, [Universal Orlando Resort](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/epic-universe/worlds/the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-ministry-of-magic) has brought wizarding Paris to Florida. Of course, we know a lot about wizarding Britain from the Harry Potter stories – but now you can walk along the cobbled streets of the French capital, from the point of view of witches and wizards. And with the scene all set in the 1920s, you’ll also be immersed in the fabulousness of the decade. 

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Place Cachée, the French equivalent of [Diagon Alley](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley), if you like, translates to ‘hidden place’ in English – and serves as your main shopping district. Expect to see shops and chic cafés before moving on to the Le Cirque Arcanus for a splendid array of circus performers, puppets and special effects. C’est magnifique. 

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Here are the big shops and cafes to look out for:  

__Café L’air De La Sirène__: a Parisian eatery full of art nouveau mosaics and delicious pastries <br>
__Le Gobelet Noir:__ A mysterious medieval-style tavern known to attract Dark witches and wizards. Expect hearty meals and hushed conversations! <br>
__Bar Moonshine:__ A home away from home... this American-style speakeasy is the perfect place for a friendly Butterbeer.  
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__K. Rammelle:__ The Parisian equivalent of Honeydukes, this is the place to browse weird and wonderful magical sweets. 
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__Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magiques:__ You know Ollivander, now get ready for Cosme Acajor, a French wandmaker who has a little bit more of a sophisticated style. And yes, ‘baguette magique’ is wand in French.<br> 
__Les Galeries Mirifiques:__ To finish things off elegantly, why don’t you grab some gladrags from this school uniform shop that specialises in international school attire?  


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## New ride “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry”, is all about the dreaded Dolores Umbridge

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Perhaps more fearful than Lord Voldemort himself, [the wizarding world’s other great villain](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/exploring-the-villains-and-less-obvious-villains-of-the-wizarding-world) – Dolores Umbridge – is back with a vengeance in this new ride, __Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry__. This new, fully immersive dark ride takes place just after the Battle of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, where the devious former-Hogwarts Professor has been put on trial. Alas, things don’t go accordingly to plan, and Umbridge escapes the court alongside a gaggle of remaining Death Eaters.   

Your job will be to re-capture Umbridge alongside a few familiar friends (Harry, Ron and Hermione, no less!) and a lovely house-elf called Higgledy. 

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## Exclusive Ministry of Magic merch!

After such a thrilling adventure, we wouldn’t blame you if you fancied relaxing with some retail therapy. 

At Tour En Floo, you can browse t-shirts, hats, banners and more, branded with Ministry of Magic insignias and logos – we especially like the deep purple colour. 


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## Watch out for Easter eggs!   

We love the big bombastic splendour of a theme park, but we know a lot of you like to keep an eye out for the little details too. The Ministry of Magic will have those in abundance for you. And although we don’t want to spoil absolutely everything for future-visitors, here’s a few tips.

Firstly - look out for a painting of Cassandra Trelawney, celebrated Seer and Professor [Sybill Trelawney’s](https://www.harrypotter.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/sybill-trelawney) great-great grandmother. We encourage you to talk to the painting for a fun surprise - once she's awake, of course. You won’t see it coming! (Bit of Divination humour for you there!) 


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In the queue for __Harry Potter and the Battle of the Ministry__, you’ll find a Hall of Ministers (AKA previous leaders of the British Ministry) and a bust of Ulick Gamp, the first ever [Minister for Magic.](https://www.harrypotter.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/ministers-for-magic) (Super-super fans will know him as the man behind Gamp’s Law of Elemental Transfiguration!)  

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In wizarding Paris, you’ll be able to find the home of Nicolas Flamel – and a pretty famous magical object you’ll know well from *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.*

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Speaking of wizarding celebrities - you'll notice too that Newt Scamander's famous textbook *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them* is on display as a French version. 

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Any French-speakers out there? Then be sure to check out the beautifully designed posters for the Circus Arcanus - that celebrates the "living curiosities" of the wizarding world, in town for a special time. You can have fun decoding the other advertisements too.

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*** 

__Universal Epic Universe is now officially open: hurray! [You can learn more from the official website. ](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=epicuniverse&utm_content=wwohp)__

Chicago's new Harry Potter shop opens with Tom Felton 

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We can't wait to Chica-go to this brand new Harry Potter shop, which has officially just opened on N Michigan Avenue.

Resplendent with exclusive wizarding world merchandise, beautiful architecture and even a Butterbeer Bar, Harry Potter Shop Chicago promises fans an unforgettable shopping trip.

Located in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, you absolutely can't miss this new store, with an ethereal Stag [Patronus](https://www.harrypotter.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/patronus-charm) statue guarding the outside.

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And who better to welcome us into this nearly 10,000-square foot Harry Potter store than the forever-charming Tom Felton, who couldn't resist checking out some of the Slytherin merch. 

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Harry Potter Shop Chicago is extra unique in that local customers will be able to pick up exclusive merchandise that celebrates the city AND the wizarding world - such as branded hoodies, hats and these adorable teddies.

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The shop has a distinct *Goblet of Fire* motif which is present all across the building. Eagle-eyed fans will spot the mermaid-themed stained glass window (keep looking and she'll even move!) and different elements of the Triwizard Tournament dispersed from room-to-room. And, of course, the [Goblet of Fire](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/objects/the-goblet-of-fire) itself sits proudly on display for fans to find, complete with blue flames.

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The Chicago store is open NOW. [You can browse the official website to learn much more.](https://harrypottershop.com/pages/chicago?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wizardingworld&utm_campaign=chicago-launch-2025)

Casting for six Hogwarts staff members confirmed for Harry Potter HBO Original Series 

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It's a Hogwarts bonanza today, as we are delighted to reveal six of the school’s staff that will appear in the Harry Potter HBO Original Series. 

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John Lithgow is confirmed as Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts and Harry’s future mentor. Lithgow is a 6-time Emmy winner, 2-time Tony winner and a BAFTA and Oscar nominee. Most recently, he won the 2025 Best Actor Oliver Award for his role in the West End theatre production, *Giant*. 

Tony, Golden Globe and Olivier winner and Oscar and Emmy nominee Janet McTeer will portray Hogwarts Deputy Headmistress and Head of Gryffindor House, Professor McGonagall. 

Paapa Essiedu who was Emmy and BAFTA nominated for his turn in comedy-drama *I May Destroy You*, takes on the surly Potions Professor, Severus Snape, while BIFA nominated actor Nick Frost will be taking on the mantle of beloved Hogwarts gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid. 

Theatre performer Luke Thallon is playing Quirinus Quirrell, the Defence Against the Dark Arts professor in Harry’s first year, while five-time BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse, perhaps best known for UK sketch series *The Fast Show*, plays Hogwarts caretaker Argus Filch.

That’s a very full Hogwarts staff room already! 

‘We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch,’ said Francesca Gardiner, showrunner and executive producer and Mark Mylod, director of multiple episodes and executive producer. ‘We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.’

Production for the series is slated to begin in summer 2025 and you can [catch up on absolutely everything revealed so far about the TV series right here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far)

***

The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved “Harry Potter” book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling and will feature an exciting and talented cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters “Harry Potter” fans have adored for over 25 years. Exploring every corner of the wizarding world, each season will bring “Harry Potter” and its incredible adventures to new and existing audiences and will stream exclusively on Max where it’s available globally, including upcoming markets such as Turkey, the UK, Germany, and Italy, among others. The original, classic, and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch around the world.

The upcoming series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

***

__The Harry Potter TV series will be a HBO Original and will premiere on Max. [Learn more about Max right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/news/introducing-enhanced-streaming-service-max), and see if it's [available in your territory here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/how-to-stream-harry-potter-wherever-you-are)__

***

__[Sign up for more Harry Potter updates straight away with our newsletter](https://www.harrypotter.com/register), which will deliver any scoops to you faster than an owl.__

***

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