news

News

Hero News Hub Texture

HBO’s Harry Potter television series confirms casting of Hogwarts students

WEB-NEWS-hbo-harry-potter-television-series-confirms-casting-of-hogwarts-students

dark-train-student-announcement-hero-alt-web

dark-train-student-announce-hero-web-alt-mobile

hbo-harry-potter-television-series-confirms-casting-of-hogwarts-students-text-section-1

Read on to discover the talented cast members who have found their seats at their house tables… 

## Bravely joining Gryffindor

![dark-train-gryffindor-students-web](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7lFOMFOCEacVaLx1zSJPRu/e8ee774cba391a4cbb64c2fabf83756f/dark-train-gryffindor-students-web.png)
 *L-R: Eire Farrell, Asha Soetan, Orson Matthews, Serrana Su-Ling Bliss, Ethan Smith*

__Orson Matthews__ has joined the cast as the proud and enthusiastic Gryffindor Quidditch team captain, Oliver Wood. He is joined by fellow team members, __Asha Soetan__ as Angelina Johnson, __Eire Farrell__ as Katie Bell and __Serrana Su-Ling Bliss__ as Alicia Spinnet. 

Also joining this courageous house is __Ethan Smith__ as the Weasley twins’ best friend (and hilarious Quidditch commentator), Lee Jordan.

## Loyally joining Hufflepuff

![dark-train-hufflepuff-students-web](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3C3oou3oRLNLsMF2v8j4Ll/87b1342ffad2e8077d7aece3eeb148ca/dark-train-hufflepuff-students-web.png)
 *L-R: India Moon, Jazmyn Lewin, Cian Eagle-Service, James Trevelyan Buckle*

The Hufflepuff common room is filling up fast! __India Moon__ is set to play Hannah Abbott. She is joined by __James Trevelyan Buckle__ as Justin Finch-Fletchley – the Muggle-born originally destined for Eton. __Cian Eagle-Service__ is Ernie MacMillan and __Jazmyn Lewin__ plays Susan Bones.

## Wisely joining Ravenclaw

![dark-train-ravenclaw-students-web](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1LNb8WcENVTvBBxkgeu2zN/144a635401a2a9753af26616c97deefe/dark-train-ravenclaw-students-web.png)
 *L-R: Aaron Zhao, Eve Walls, Scarlett Archer, Anjula Murali*

__Anjula Murali__ is joining the cast as Padma Patil, the twin sister of Gryffindor, Parvati Patil. __Aaron Zhao__ is also joining as Ravenclaw member of Harry’s year group, Terry Boot. While __Scarlett Archer__ is set to play Penelope Clearwater and __Eve Walls__ joins as Lisa Turpin. 

## Ambitiously joining Slytherin

![dark-train-slytherin-students-web](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/QnWf2JeAJLn4XCqX983hw/d36d30789a4a747aae10cf902bfe066a/dark-train-slytherin-students-web.png)
 *Back row: L-R Eddison Burch, James Dowell, Oliver Croft, Dylan Heath, Henry Medhurst 
Front row: L-R Cornelius Brandreth, Laila Barwick, D'Angelou Osei-Kissiedu*

__Oliver Croft__ is set to play Slytherin Quidditch team captain Marcus Flint. He is joined by Slytherin Chasers __D’Angelou Osei-Kissiedu__ as Graham Montague and __Dylan Heath__ as Adrian Pucey. __Cornelius Brandreth__ plays Seeker, Terence Higgs. While __Eddison Burch__ has been cast as Keeper, Miles Bletchley. __James Dowell__ is Lucian Bole and __Henry Medhurst__ is Peregrine Derrick, the team Beaters.

Finally, __Laila Barwick__ plays friend of Draco Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson.

The series will debut in 2027 on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max where it’s available, including recent launch markets Germany and Italy. It will also be available in the UK and Ireland, where the platform is confirmed to launch in late March.

You can learn absolutely everything we already know about the Harry Potter television series [right here](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/everything-we-know-about-the-harry-potter-tv-series-so-far) – and do [sign up for our newsletter](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) to get all the latest OWL post as soon as we have it.

***
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 first official Harry Potter flagship shop is coming to London

WEB-NEWS-the-first-official-harry-potter-flagship-shop-is-coming-to-london

harajuku-shop-header-web-landscape

the-first-official-harry-potter-flagship-shop-is-coming-to-london-text-section-1

Joining Harry Potter Shop King’s Cross as the UK’s only official Harry Potter retail destinations, this spellbinding shop is opening in a truly iconic British shopping location – Oxford Street! 

Yes, covering 21,000 sq ft. and spread over two floors this flagship shop, located at The Ribbon, 134-140 Oxford Street, will be bursting with all sorts of wonderful wizarding goodies. 

![the-ribbon-harry-potter-shop-oxford-street-location-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3huDe5HJ1QjRaX8ynWh7Gv/ea51664cb2bfef32fceebca0611cd236/the-ribbon-harry-potter-shop-oxford-street-location-web-landscape.png)

Transformed into a magical emporium, when fans step into the shop they can expect to feel as though they have been transported into the wizarding world with an interior that celebrates the much-loved locations found in both the books and the films. With photo opportunities, interactives and exclusive merchandise, it will be a ‘must see’ destination for fans and visitors to the capital.

Karl Durrant, WBD’s SVP Worldwide Retail provided us with a teaser of what fans can expect:

__*“Harry Potter is deeply rooted in British storytelling and this will give fans an exciting new way to experience this magical world in the city that features so prominently in the stories.  Offering a completely new retail experience for Harry Potter fans which will delight and entertain, it’s going to be very special.”*__

Not only is this the latest enchanting addition to the existing Harry Potter shops in New York, Chicago and Tokyo but it will also be a fantastic new addition to the collection of Harry Potter experiences in London including Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and the Harry Potter Shop at King’s Cross.

With Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street set to open in Autumn, 2026, stay tuned as we will reveal all the thrilling details about this magical new shopping experience as we get them.


All the ways you can celebrate Butterbeer Season in 2026

WEB-NEWS-all-the-ways-you-can-celebrate-butterbeer-season-in-2026

butterbeer-season-2026-gte-tankards-web-landscape

all-the-ways-you-can-celebrate-butterbeer-season-in-2026-text-section-1

In this special anniversary year, Butterbeer season is back once again and bigger than ever! From 1st March until 31st May, fans can celebrate the most iconic of wizarding world flavours with limited-edition treats, exclusive merchandise, and themed experiences inspired by the beloved beverage, with magical moments unfolding across retail partners and Harry Potter destinations worldwide. †

![butterbeer-season-key-art-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5XR50RaLG7rXQeL6jsm2BW/888ef0dbfd5d846ab9b02944d128fbeb/butterbeer-season-key-art-landscape.png)

## New Butterbeer products to look out for in 2026

### Something sweet

Especially for Butterbeer season, Coffee Mate® have created not one, but three new delectable products inspired by the Harry Potter films. Upgrade your coffee routine with Butterbeer Flavoured Zero Sugar Creamer, Coffee mate Butterbeer Flavoured Creamer, and Butterbeer Flavoured Cold Foam Creamer. and bring a hint of magic to your mug.

Peeps have got in on the action too as they celebrate Butterbeer Season and Butterbeer Season with their Butterbeer Flavoured Marshmallow Chicks exclusively at Walmart.

McCormick® have promised to add a sprinkle of magic to your everyday favourites with their Harry Potter™ Butterbeer Finishing Sugar and Butterbeer Flavour. Mix a dash of Finishing Sugar into your bakes to add a caramel flavour and hint of vanilla. Or add a splash of Butterbeer Flavour to recreate the vibes of this wizarding drink. 

In the US, Cinnabon will be the first national restaurant partner to take part and make magic in Butterbeer Season, unveiling a Butterbeer Bon and a Butterbeer-inspired beverage.

Meanwhile, the UK’s no.1 cookie brand, Maryland, have teamed up with Harry Potter to launch a limited-edition Butterbeer cookie with a caramel flavour inspired by this wizarding drink. 

### Exciting new products 

![butterbeer-season-timex-watch-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/64xEucyLwnirEH9TOZxQgh/ef0095da5264d88173a859744c4d36ef/butterbeer-season-timex-watch-landscape.png)

The legendary branding of the wizarding drink goes beyond flavour, inspiring some of our friends to create magical products to get your hands on this Butterbeer Season. 

Timex are celebrating the magic of style with their Butterbeer watch. With a blue woven strap, gold-tone face, and a charming Butterbeer mug icon at the centre, it would make a fashionable edition to any Harry Potter fan’s collection.

Speaking of collectibles, the Harry Potter ‘Butterbeer’ 3D iPASS card is a must-have for fans. Available from 4th March at 7-ELEVEN stores, Eslite online store, and Eslite physical bookstores throughout Taiwan, from the flowing, amber Butterbeer-esque effect, to the 3D cup shape and not forgetting the rich foam detailing, this card will add a wizarding twist to your journeys.

With its vintage-inspired designs, golden hues and wizarding world motifs, the Butterbeer range from EB Games & Zing Pop Culture captures the wizarding beverage’s warmth and nostalgic charm perfectly. With goodies such as a miniature tankard keychain, a set of four stylized coasters, a detailed glass mug, and a bold unisex T shirt, fans can bring the Butterbeer vibes into everyday life. The Butterbeer range will be available in over 130 Zing Pop Culture and Hybrid stores as well as being available on both Zing Pop Culture and EB Games Websites.  Check your local store for details.

Available at Albertsons, The Brendon Harry Potter Imagine Ink with its 16 page booklet and mess free Magic Ink marker that reveals hidden colours and surprises (no Revelio needed), is perfect for the young witch or wizard in your life.

As is the Harry Potter & Sticker-By-Number Crystal Masterpiece: Butterbeer Sweets & Treats. Also available at Albertsons, add a bit of razzle dazzle to Butterbeer season by creating your own sparkling Butterbeer themed artwork using epoxy jewel stickers. Includes a wooden frame and instructions, all in a display ready box. 

For the fashionistas among you, step into Butterbeer Season in style with the Harry Potter Butterbeer Collection by Human. Taking inspiration from the warm tones and comforting flavour of this wizarding delight, this collection features sleek, sporty silhouettes. Evoking the atmosphere of the Leaky Cauldron expressed through a clean, modern aesthetic it’s the perfect mix of the magical and Muggle worlds.

### Some Butterbeer Season staples are set to make their return 

![butterbeer-season-mini-mug-running-press-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3xQY5z3IPKPWXEuxpN2NG0/ca073f1f873f2ae61256907522524bb1/butterbeer-season-mini-mug-running-press-web-landscape.png)

Back by popular demand, Goldfish® Butterbeer Flavoured Grahams are returning to the US for a limited time beginning this March. Inspired by Butterbeer, this playful snack is packed with butterscotch flavour.

Meanwhile, Hershey’s have also decided to bring back their popular Harry Potter Butterbeer Kisses to the US for the season. With a butterscotch flavour and limited-edition Harry Potter packaging, they are both collectible and shareable.

Especially for Butterbeer Season, in the US, Keebler are bringing back their special-edition Butterbeer Fudge Stripe Cookies with four unique cookie designs inspired by the Harry Potter films, for a limited time only.

Another returning favourite, which is perfect for Harry Potter fans who love to keep their nails on point, is Orly’s Harry Potter Butterbeer-inspired nail collection. Infusing beauty routines with the signature scent of Butterbeer, this limited-time range includes the Butterbeer Scented Iridescent Nail Polish Topper, Scented Nourishing Cuticle Oil, Scented Hydrating Cuticle Froth and Scented Quick Dry Nail Spray. Available from 1st March, fans can find the sweet-smelling range at [orlybeauty.com](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Forlybeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Fultimate-harry-potter%25E2%2584%25A2-butterbeer%25E2%2584%25A2-experience%3F_pos%3D6%26_sid%3D0b2370f77%26_ss%3Dr%26utm_source%3Dwwd_web%26utm_medium%3Dnewsarticle%26utm_campaign%3DCP%26utm_content%3Dbutterbeer-season-announce-article-26) and [Ulta.com](https://www.harrypotter.com/linkout?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwwd_web%26utm_medium%3Dnewsarticle%26utm_campaign%3DCP%26utm_content%3Dbutterbeer-season-announce-article-26).

Did someone cast Reducio here? Because these teeny tiny and totally adorable Harry Potter Butterbeer Mini Mug Set from Running Press is making its return this Butterbeer season. Available worldwide, this 3-1/2 inch Butterbeer glass mug also comes with a 48-page guidebook on Butterbeer, alongside a coaster to catch those rings.

![butterbeer-season-orly-neails-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4e4H3910xcG2KsZBI4pS9h/a251cd844708241d64b89688a754b213/butterbeer-season-orly-neails-web-landscape.png)

## Celebrate Butterbeer season with events around the world 

Butterbeer Season is not just about whimsical products and there are plenty of ways it will be bringing the magic to fans.

Starting with the return of the touring Butterbeer Trucks that will be hitting the road once again as the deliver Butterbeer to fans. That’s just the tip of the iceberg of the Harry Potter-themed fun. There will be pop-up activities, themed in game celebrations and activities in Zynga’s Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells and Jam City’s Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, special in store moments and limited time offerings at official Harry Potter locations worldwide. 

Remember to keep an eye on our website as we update you on all the locations of where you can join in the fun as we have them.

Let’s not forget, Butterbeer is most delicious when shared with friends. If you’re old enough, check out our social channels which will make it possible to do just that! In April, fans can treat their loved ones to a Butterbeer! Details on how to get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.

![Butterbeer-Season-Butterbeer-truck-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7E1HplQYcPAwhaxmgWWkYf/e1c561854efd7293a975d96dbe3a848a/B-005__5_.jpg)

### Europe

Butterbeer Season celebrations will be in full swing at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter with plenty for fans to get involved with. 

Starting off with their Butterbeer Bar where Hot Butterbeer will be available for the first time ever. There will be plenty of other delicious delights making their debit too including Butterbeer Fudge and Butterbeer Bundt Cake. If that’s not enough, Butterbeer Pancakes, Butterbeer Lattes and Butterbeer Cake will also be available for purchase.

Fans will also have the opportunity to win some magical prizes as the Studio Tour are hosting a Butterbeer Competition. One lucky winner will receive two tickets to the Studio Tour and a Butterbeer feast. Two Runners-up will each receive a Butterbeer bundle from the Harry Potter Shop. Fans will be able to enter through the [Studio Tour website](https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/butterbeer-season-competition-2026/?utm_medium=article&utm_source=fanclub&utm_campaign=butterbeer-season-competition-2026) from 2nd March 10:00 GMT – 29th March 23:59 GMT. 

Throughout Butterbeer Season, Studio Tour visitors will also be able to scan a QR code to take part in a quiz all about the pubs of the wizarding world. From the Leaky Cauldron to the Hog’s Head Inn, fans can test their knowledge of the wizarding world inns.

For fans in France, from 6th – 31st May, the popular restaurant Au Bureau will be rolling out their Butterbeer inspired celebration across 215 locations. Fans will be able to tuck into specially created treats in a restaurant setting, dine in wizarding themed décor and enjoy Harry Potter themed fun. That’s not all! Special Butterbeer products will also be available for fans to discover at Paladone and Pyramid, stay tuned for more announcements in the coming weeks.

Fans who are attending Harry Potter: The Exhibition can enjoy a refreshing glass of Butterbeer Enjoy after enjoying the enchanting exhibition in both the Dresden and Budapest retail shops. They will also have the opportunity to experience specially themed after hours events and explore exclusive merchandise available year round – perfect for collectors and world of Harry Potter enthusiasts.

### North America

![Butterbeer-Season-fans-celebrating-their-visit-to-wwohp-with-butterbeers](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7pcQ0wRcoAsfIOTb4nNdTC/c828ee26770f5657da747d445842f3b7/DSC03898__2_.jpg)

The celebrations will continue at the Harry Potter Shops in New York and Chicago where they will debut delicious new Butterbeer themed food and drinks, including Butterbeer Time Turner Cookies, Butterbeer Cake Jar and Butterbeer Rice Crispy.

In Texas, fans attending the Harry Potter: The Exhibition will be able to enjoy this iconic wizarding beverage after attending the exhibition at the Dallas retail shop. Fans can also experience specially themed after hours events and explore exclusive merchandise available year round – perfect for collectors and world of Harry Potter enthusiasts.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Fans can celebrate Butterbeer Season within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, and all three themed areas of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando: Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida, Hogsmeade in Universal Islands of Adventure and Ministry of Magic at the all-new Universal Epic Universe. 

Both destinations will debut exclusive treats, including the new signature item of the season, the Butterbeer Waffle, available for a limited time at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade and the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. The fan-favourite Butterbeer Cream Puff will also return to Universal Studios Hollywood, while Universal Orlando will introduce limited-time treats including a new Butterbeer Cupcake, Butterbeer Cookie Sandwich, Butterbeer Candy Apple and Butterbeer Shortbread Bar available exclusively at Honeydukes in Hogsmeade and Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop in Diagon Alley, plus a Biéraubeurre (Butterbeer) Crème Brûlée available at Café L’air de la Siréne in the Ministry of Magic.  

Butterbeer Season will also mark the debut of Butterbeer-flavoured truffles and macarons at Universal Orlando, which will be offered year-round at the K. Rammelle confectionary shop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe.

A new assortment of Butterbeer-themed merchandise will also be available for purchase to commemorate the season, including a Spirit Jersey, t-shirt, bucket hat and more. Guests can shop the new collection at various retail locations across The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood or online at shopuniversal.com.

![butterbeer-season-2026-gte-tankards-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/PRnSrQI6DSnreGbNivpgg/22094275a96c31fe6dacd98d20ad7ebe/butterbeer-season-2026-gte-tankards-web-landscape.png)

### Latin America 

We all know the importance that chocolate plays in the Harry Potter stories. Combine that with Butterbeer and you’re in for a treat! Cacau Show will debut two Butterbeer inspired chocolate treats: a milk chocolate bar and a milk chocolate truffle, both filled with creamy Butterbeer flavour. Fans can also enjoy a collectible combo featuring a themed mug and seven Butterbeer truffles. Products launch in March, online and across more than 5,000 Cacau Show stores nationwide.

Riachuelo will be encouraging to wear their love of Butterbeer with pride as they introduce a Butterbeer inspired collection featuring six coordinated items, available online and at FanLab beginning March 2026. The range includes a collectible Butterbeer ‘B’ crest mug; two graphic T shirts inspired by Hogsmeade, the Three Broomsticks, and vintage wizarding design; and accessories including a metal bottle opener, branded lanyard, and enamel style Butterbeer crest pin.

Finally, fans can also take part in Butterbeer tastings at select Cacau Show stores and Riachuelo FanLab locations, with participating venues to be announced via official social channels.

### Asia

The Butterbeer celebrations truly are a global event. Over at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Beijing Resort, fans can enjoy the specialty Butterbeer Cream Puff for a limited time to get in the spirit of Butterbeer Season as they explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. New Butterbeer-themed merchandise will also be arriving to Universal Beijing Resort this Spring, including a limited-edition, collectible Harry Potter 25 Years of Magic Butterbeer Stein. 

Harry Potter fans in Japan will be able to join in the fun too as they can look forward to Butterbeer themed activities and surprises, including exclusive licensed products and magical experiences.

For the first time ever at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan, guests can enjoy a limited‑time Butterbeer Cream Puff as part of Butterbeer Season, along with Butterbeer‑themed merchandise at Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods. 

In Singapore, there are new delights to be disocvered at Harry Potter: Visions of Magic, where guests can enjoy limited edition Butterbeer treats including a Butterbeer cupcake, cake pop, and macaron – available for a short time only. Visitors can also take advantage of special limited time ticket packages, plus enjoy Butterbeer themed giveaways on social, making this experience even more magical.

### Australia 

For our friends in Australia, Butterbeer will be having its moment in the spotlight during the Harry Potter 25th Anniversary themed takeover of Chadstone in Melbourne – the largest retail and lifestyle destination in the Southern Hemisphere, launching in April.

That’s all for Butterbeer news right now, folks! Thirsty work, we’re sure you’ll agree. We’ll be back with more exciting announcements in the weeks ahead. [Register for our newsletter](https://www.harrypotter.com/register) to always get the latest wizarding world news – quicker than any owl.

***

† harrypotter.com does not recommend consumption of high sugar content food or beverage products for children under 13/16 years of age.

\** Certain products and tickets referred to in this email are offered for sale by third parties and are subject to availability. Before purchasing from the third party, you will need to agree to their terms of purchase which you can find on their website. Any issues with your purchase should be directed to customer services teams at the respective third party – you can find contact information on their website.

The brand names included in this newsletter/promotion: Coffee Mate, McCormick, Peeps, Cinnabon, Maryland, Timex, Human, Goldfish, Kisses, LEGO, Keebler, Orly, Running Press, Cacau Show, Riachuelo.

butterbeer-season-2026-key-art-square

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

Get ready to go Back to Hogwarts digitally in 2020

WEB-NEWS-introducing-back-to-hogwarts-2020

back-to-hogwarts-header

MinaLima_BTH_2020_Social_Asset

go-back-to-hogwarts-digitally-in-2020-text-section-1

As Harry Potter fans know all too well, on 1st September, Harry Potter attended Hogwarts for the very first time – and we’ve all been celebrating this eponymous wizarding world calendar date ever since. Here’s how all of our Wizarding World friends and family are congregating for a digital celebration this year, and how you can join in at home.

## Watch our first ever Back to Hogwarts livestream  

Over the past number of years, we’ve loved seeing fans flocking to London’s King’s Cross station to celebrate Back to Hogwarts day with a good old fashioned countdown. To reflect the Hogwarts Express leaving Platform Nine and Three-Quarters at 11 o’ clock sharp, visitors at King’s Cross famously count down to this magical time with a special annual get-together. 

However, this year, the Wizarding World is asking fans *not* to attend King’s Cross station for the usual gathering. In the wake of COVID-19, we are asking you all to stay safe at home - but join us for a digital countdown all across the world instead!

On 1st September, we will be hosting a Back to Hogwarts livestream, with special contributions from all across the Wizarding World family. Expect to see cameos from familiar faces from the Harry Potter films (such as James and Oliver Phelps, Jason Isaacs and Bonnie Wright) and members of the Cursed Child production, join us in a special Wizarding World trivia game, and see how fans around the world are celebrating Back to Hogwarts.

James and Oliver Phelps, AKA the Weasley twins, had this to say about getting involved.

“I’m so excited to be playing a part in the first ever digital Back to Hogwarts!’ James said. ‘2020 has definitely been a strange year and it’s really important that we all do everything we can to keep safe, including staying home. I hope fans will join us and keep the celebrations virtual.’

Oliver Phelps added: ‘The Wizarding World fans are the greatest and getting the chance to share this special day with people all over the world is going to be brilliant. I’m really looking forward to everything this Digital Back to Hogwarts has in store and it’s a bonus that we can all do it from the sofa!’

Yes, wizards and witches may be wary of Muggle technology, but this is some very exciting Muggle technology indeed. The livestream will take place between __10.30am BST and 11.30am BST__ – keep an eye on the [Wizarding World channels](https://www.facebook.com/wizardingworld) for further updates!  Fans will be able to support the charity Lumos throughout the livestream too. 

## Enjoy a weekend of digital activities before the 1st 

Before the big day itself, you can visit our Back to Hogwarts hub, which will magically begin to expand across the weekend of the 28th August. Just our little way of bringing you the magic of Hogwarts before the students even hop aboard the Hogwarts Express. Get ready for new craft videos, trivia challenges, quizzes, puzzles, Back to Hogwarts features, shopping guides and all the latest updates from our Wizarding World friends and family. 

You can also look forward to an upcoming Journeys to Hogwarts Soundscape: a Harry Potter immersive audio experience featuring all the sounds you’d hear on that iconic journey. More on that soon!

While you wait for our festivities to begin, [do sign up to the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/passport) where we’ll keep you posted on all the digital activities we have in store.

## Be part of the Class of 2020 

We may not have any Portkeys to hand, but there is a magical way you can connect with fellow Harry Potter fans this year: introducing the Back to Hogwarts Class of 2020. We’re asking fans, over 18 years of age in select countries, to take photos celebrating the wizarding world (this could be through cosplay, props, or even just drawing a lightning bolt on your head!) and submit them to us to take part in a magical mosaic. Your photo may even be projected at King’s Cross, combined with many more from fellow Wizarding World fans! You’ll be able to see if your contribution appears on our livestream on the 1st September. 

## Enjoy some stunning new artwork from MinaLima

BTH 2020 MinaLima full poster

go-back-to-hogwarts-digitally-in-2020-text-section-2

Design team MinaLima, the artists behind the graphic universe of the Harry Potter films, have lovingly produced this amazing Back to Hogwarts 2020 poster, [which will be available as a limited edition print from their official shop](https://minalima.com/). All those owls and letters are already making us nostalgic... 

## So, what can you do right now?

While you wait for our festivities to begin, do sign up to the [Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) where we’ll keep you posted on all the digital activities we have in store. 

[You can also peruse our Back to Hogwarts hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/back-to-hogwarts) where we’ve already got the party started. Play some Back to Hogwarts quizzes, learn all about the start of term traditions, or revisit our Harry Potter At Home series, where we invited a number of famous friends to read every chapter of the first Harry Potter book.

Be sure to check the __#BackToHogwarts__ hashtag across Instagram and Twitter for all the latest updates, and to see how fellow fans are celebrating.

*So, join us back here on the weekend before the 1st September, where our Back to Hogwarts hub will begin filling up with wizarding treats before the big day.*

PMARCHIVE-WB COG trailer Hogwarts Castle wm 6GOxWeAO7C6wwoWU0GGo6m-b1

Hogwarts castle in the Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald trailer

WB COG trailer Hogwarts Castle wm

Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells opens pre-registration and launches new teaser video 

2020-WEB-NEWS-puzzles-and-spells-opens-pre-reg-window

puzzles-and-spells-hero-asset-harry-and-ron

puzzles-and-spells-alternative-key-art

puzzles-and-spells-opens-pre-reg-window-text-section-1

The upcoming match-3 mobile game is part of the Portkey Games label (you can learn more about [Portkey Games here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/discover/portkey-games)) and celebrates the wizarding world through a series of bright and colourful puzzle challenges. Take a look at their latest trailer here.

Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells

puzzles-and-spells-announces-pre-registration-and-trailer-video

PMARCHIVE-Portkey Games logo  5Z1xyAAtWwOUo6ccgkueWs

Portkey Games logo 

puzzles-and-spells-opens-pre-reg-window-text-section-2

The new trailer reveals story elements that will be woven throughout the game, inviting players to solve various puzzles interspersed with Chocolate Frogs, magic keys and all manner of fantastical things.

Players will also be tasked with creating an avatar, casting familiar spells and collecting various wizarding world artefacts along their way. And, of course, as you progress, there are opportunities to level up, upgrade your abilities and win power-ups. You’ll also bump into familiar Harry Potter characters throughout the levels to guide you through your journey – and be invited to collect magical creatures, objects, potions. The more you play, the more you’ll collect and learn as you approach fresh, daily challenges. 

'With Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells, we’ll be delighting fans with the memorable characters, sounds and stories of the original books and films,” said Bernard Kim, President of Publishing, Zynga. ‘But we’re also bringing more dimension to the match-3 genre. Players will earn XP and become more powerful, acquire and level up spells, engage in special events and connect and compete with one another through the Clubs feature.’

Players who pre-register for Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells will be the first to know when the game officially launches, and those that download the game within 7 days will be treated to a special Welcome Bundle, extra rewards and power-ups. You’ll even get a special custom item to make your avatar even more unique. 

So named because Portkeys transport wizards from place to place, games under the Portkey Games label give Harry Potter fans the chance to be transported into the wizarding world and placed at the centre of their own adventure. So, get ready for this latest magical escapade! 

*Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells will be playable for iOS and Android devices worldwide, as well as on Amazon Kindle and Facebook. Visit the [Harry Potter: Puzzles and Spells website](http://www.harrypotterpuzzlesandspells.com/) or Google Play to learn how to pre-register, and keep checking in for future updates.*

IMAGE-HP-puzzles-and-spells-social

MinaLima announce house move and latest digital updates 

minalima-announce-plans-to-move-house-and-other-digital-updates

minalima-were-moving-crop

minalima-were-moving-poster-crop

minalima-house-move-news-text-section

After four years and having hosted over one million visitors, the House of MinaLima is packing up its boxes and preparing to move to a bigger location in the heart of Soho, London. 

![weremoving-full-minalima-poster](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/18k6vnGemxSrcuf4VmOHyF/d6124328fe1203e9907d59b2aca999ff/weremoving-full-minalima-poster.jpg)

From 1st September, the House of MinaLima, which includes an immersive gallery and shop, will also be home to MinaLima’s design studio - bringing the creativity behind the scenes under one roof for the very first time! 

MinaLima’s team have also been working on the digital side of things, with some new additions coming soon to their official website.  Japanese Harry Potter fans can expect their very own Japanese version of the MinaLima website ([now live here!](https://minalima.jp/)) alongside further translated versions in German, French and Spanish coming soon. 

As if that wasn’t enough, MinaLima have also released a brand-new print, to their much-loved ‘Magical Moments’ series. 

![howdareyoustealthatcar-minalima-print](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3E7yg3sQWSmlur4pFDxUFP/a88d3e0f821949c47ddab8881ccd7a16/howdareyoustealthatcar-minalima-print.jpg)

Magical Moments shines a light on some of the most memorable scenes from the Harry Potter films, from Harry wearing the Sorting Hat to Dobby dropping Aunt Petunia’s pudding. New for 2020, fans can now enjoy a “How dare you steal that car” print which crystallises the moment where Mrs Weasley sends Ron a Howler in *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*.  You can learn more about the Magical Moments series here.

So, there you have it! To keep up to date with MinaLima’s latest news, or if you fancy taking a ‘virtual tour’ of the new store, [check out the official website. ](https://minalima.com/)

The Harry Potter x K-Swiss Back to Hogwarts Footwear collection launches 31st July

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-collection-all-house-colours-hero-web-image

The new Harry Potter x K-Swiss shoes – from 31st July

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-text-section-1

The Harry Potter x K-Swiss Back to Hogwarts Footwear collection will be available from the 31st July, and is the result of the exciting collaboration between Warner Bros. Consumer Products and K-Swiss, which recently brought you the [limited edition Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/k-swiss-reveal-new-quidditch-themed-shoe). The shoe took inspiration in its design from the broom Harry received during his third year at Hogwarts.

We loved that Quidditch theme, and the new Back to Hogwarts collection builds on that by combining two of our very favourite aspects of the wizarding world: the Hogwarts houses and Quidditch! There are two distinct ranges of Harry Potter-inspired shoes to choose from within the Back to Hogwarts collection, so let’s soar in and take a look: 

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-text-section-2

## Four distinct Hogwarts House-inspired designs 
Different houses mean different personalities, and this is beautifully reflected by the collection featuring each house-inspired design on a different K-Swiss silhouette. 


kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-gryffindor-classic 2000-shoe-image

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Gryffindor-caption-classic-2000

*<center>Gryffindor inspired shoe in the Classic 2000<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-hufflepuff-terrati-shoe-image

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-hufflepuff-caption-terrati

*<center>Hufflepuff inspired shoe in the CR-Terrati<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-ravenclaw-caprina-shoe-image

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Ravenclaw-caption-caprina

*<center>Ravenclaw inspired shoe in the Caprina<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-slytherin-GSTAAD86-shoe-image

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Slytherin-caption-GSTAAD ’86

*<center>Slytherin inspired shoe in the GSTAAD ’86<center>*

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-text-section-3

So, whether you’re a brave Gryffindor, a loyal Hufflepuff, a wise Ravenclaw or an ambitious Slytherin, this Harry Potter x K-Swiss collection has a shoe sole-mate for you! Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong to? [Take our Sorting Ceremony here](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat).

## Re-imagined house Quidditch designs
There’s one competition at Hogwarts that really gets the house spirit going, and that’s the Quidditch House Cup. The second group of designs in the collection all feature on the K-Swiss Court Pro II sneaker, reimagined with the Hogwarts house colours and crests. But that’s not all! These sneakers all hero the magical game of Quidditch too, by boasting burnished leather and ribbed mesh that allude to the uniforms and equipment worn by Quidditch players. 


kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-house-quiddich-shoe-Gryffindor-court-pro-ii

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Gryffindor-caption-court-pro-ii

*<center>Gryffindor Court Pro II sneaker<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-house-quiddich-shoe-Hufflepuff-court-pro-ii

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Hufflepuff-caption-court-pro-ii

*<center>Hufflepuff Court Pro II sneaker<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-house-quiddich-shoe-Ravenclaw-court-pro-ii

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Ravenclaw-caption-court-pro-ii

*<center>Ravenclaw Court Pro II sneaker<center>*

kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-house-quiddich-shoe-Slytherin-court-pro-ii

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-Slytherin-caption-court-pro-ii

*<center>Slytherin Court Pro II sneaker<center>*

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-text-section-4

The Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2 was a Harry Potter Fan Club exclusive, so we hope you managed to catch one of those limited edition pairs, and you can now add to your Quidditch-inspired collection with this new Back to Hogwarts footwear! The shoes will be available for Gold members in the US to buy in the [Wizarding World shop](https://shop.wizardingworld.com/), where they can also enjoy a 20% saving off the purchase price.*



kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-house-quiddich-shoes-all-four-image

K-Swiss x Harry Potter Back To Hogwarts Campaign Images - Tier 2 Group (1)

WEB-NEWS-hp-kswiss-back-to-hogwarts-footwear-collection-launch-text-section-5

To be among the first to hear about more Wizarding World collaborations, new products and the latest news and updates, [join the Harry Potter Fan Club – just sign up here](https://www.my.wizardingworld.com/register). 

So, when and where can you find the Harry Potter x K-Swiss Back to Hogwarts collection? It will be available to buy from the 31st July at the [Wizarding World shop](https://shop.wizardingworld.com/) (for Harry Potter Fan Club members in the US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia), as well as K-swiss.com, Amazon.com, Mason Companies, Off Broadway and Shoe Show. 

*Offer subject to availability. [Terms and conditions apply](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/shop-20).


Limited edition K-Swiss shoes now sold out

WEB-NEWS-K-swiss-preawareness-piece

HERO-kswiss-shoes-image

Exclusive to Wizarding World, the Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2 will only be available in the Wizarding World shop. Find out more here.

The new Harry Potter x K-Swiss shoes – from 22nd July

k-swiss-preawareness-piece-text-section-1

__UPDATE! ALL SHOES HAVE NOW SOLD OUT!__

A limited number of the K-Swiss x Harry Potter shoes are now available for Harry Potter Fan Club members to [purchase from the Wizarding World shop](http://www.wizardingworld.com/store?path=/collections/quidditch-1?utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_source=wwd_web&utm_campaign=kswiss-buy) – catch them if you can! 

k-swiss combined products asset

k-swiss-preawareness-piece-text-section-2

The new Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2 is indeed inspired by the broom it takes its name after, and features black bristles, silver footholds and an authentic wood grain.

The box comes adorned with one of our special Enchanted Keys, which, when scanned using the Wizarding World app (available in the UK, the US, New Zealand and Australia), will serve up an extra surprise for fans. And you might want to save the tissue paper that the shoe comes in too – this is styled to look like a Daily Prophet newspaper.

For fans in Great Britain, 20 of the shoe boxes will contain a special gift, a ‘Golden Snitch’ collectible. Those lucky enough to ‘catch the Snitch’ can share them with us on Twitter or Instagram using the handle @WizardingWorld and hashtag #ICaughtAGoldenSnitch for a chance to have your photo re-shared on our social channels.* 

You must be a [registered member of the Harry Potter Fan Club ](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)in order to purchase the Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2, now available from the [Wizarding World shop.](http://www.wizardingworld.com/store?path=/collections/quidditch-1?utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_source=wwd_web&utm_campaign=kswiss-buy/)
 
Gold Members will get an exclusive 24-hour early access window, starting on 22nd  July, and can save 20% on the shoes while stocks last, as well as other items in the Wizarding World online shop. Terms and conditions apply.+ You can find out more about [Gold membership here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/about-gold).

For the most up-to-date information, follow @kswiss and @WizardingWorld on 
Instagram and use the hashtags #HarryPotterFanClub and #HarryPotterFirebolt to find out more about future products coming from this collaboration. 

Prepare to embrace Quidditch chic! 

k-swiss-shoe-and-snitch-artwork

k-swiss-preawareness-piece-text-section-3

The Harry Potter x K-Swiss Firebolt Hypercourt Express 2 is available from 11:00 ET / 08:00 PDT / 16:00 BST on 23 July from [www.wizardingworld.com/shop](http://www.wizardingworld.com/store?path=/collections/quidditch-1?utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_source=wwd_web&utm_campaign=kswiss-buy/) for $119.95 and £119.95.

*The Golden Snitch offer is available to residents of Great Britain only, 20 Snitches to be found. Purchase of Firebolt shoes required. [Terms and Conditions apply.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/terms-conditions-golden-snitch-promotion)

+Offer subject to availability. Stocks very limited. Other limitations apply. [See Terms and Conditions.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/terms-conditions-harry-potter-kswiss-firebolt-express-offer)

TEASER-KSWISS-shoes

Seven ways lifelong fans and first time readers showed their love for Harry Potter At Home

WEB-NEWS-seven-ways-lifelong-fans-and-first-time-readers-showed-their-love-for-HPAH

Jim_Kay_hogwarts-express

gaffney-family-approved-still-chapter-readings-image

The Gaffneys from Brooklyn took part in our Chapter Seventeen chapter reading

WEB-NEWS-seven-ways-lifelong-fans-and-first-time-readers-showed-their-love-for-HPAH-text-section-1

During lockdown, we set out to cast a Banishing Charm on boredom by bringing Hogwarts to you with our Harry Potter At Home initiative. All the members of our Wizarding World family rallied together, like a digital Dumbledore’s Army, and developed a set of free offerings to help children, parents, carers and teachers find comfort and escape whilst we continued to stay at home. This culminated in the creation of a dedicated, free, online space – the [Harry Potter At Home hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home) – to delight Harry Potter fans, old and new. From special chapter readings of the first Harry Potter book to crafting challenges and games, our aim was to inspire reading for pleasure, alongside enjoyment of the Harry Potter stories, as well as to bring some much needed joy and entertainment into your homes.

Gaffney-caption-text-section

*<center>The Gaffneys from Brooklyn took part in our filmed-at-home reading of Chapter Seventeen</center>*

WEB-NEWS-seven-ways-lifelong-fans-and-first-time-readers-showed-their-love-for-HPAH-text-section-2

We can’t thank you enough for how enthusiastically you joined us on the magical Harry Potter At Home journey! In this article we want to share our gratitude for just how much love you’ve shown and continue to show for Harry Potter, and how inspiring that has been for first time readers and lifelong fans alike. 

## 1. You made the Harry Potter series No 1 on the New York Times Bestseller List 
After Harry Potter hit the 500 million sales mark in 2018, it was estimated that 1 in 15 people in the world may own one of the novels. But during Harry Potter At Home, even more of you bought the Harry Potter books, published by Scholastic in the US, and they hit the top spot on the New York Times Bestseller List during lockdown. And that’s not all. Publisher Bloomsbury reported that more of you bought physical copies of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* in the first half of this year, than in the same period last year, despite UK bookshops being closed during lockdown. And Scholastic also reported that sales of *Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone* doubled in the height of lockdown! Thank you for continuing to read Harry Potter and inspiring new readers with your love of the series.  

## 2. Millions of you accessed Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone in new ways
In March and April, Pottermore Publishing teamed up with digital library suppliers to allow access to the first book in its digital form, and Audible Stories also made the audiobook available free to stream, As a result, one million of you borrowed the first book via the unlimited access granted to libraries in the US and UK as part of Harry Potter At Home. Millions more of you listened in the six different languages made available in audio. And over 4.5 million of you listened to *Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone* on Alexa as part of Audible's free Alexa Listening Event. We loved that so many of you enjoyed the first story at home with your families or in online classrooms in these new ways.

## 3. Millions of you tuned in to watch our filmed-at-home chapter readings
As part of Harry Potter At Home, you watched some of the best-loved faces across global, entertainment, music and sport read [all seventeen chapters of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone*](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters). You were there every step of the way, from David Beckham reading Quidditch commentary, to Helena Bonham Carter reciting Snape’s potions riddle – and of course let’s not forget that memorable Malfoy reunion…  Since their launch, the chapter readings have been enjoyed over 30 million times across all platforms, including WizardingWorld.com and Spotify. We think even the calm and collected Professor McGonagall would have been unable to contain her excitement! We are so grateful to all our celebrity chapter readers, as well as our Chapter Seventeen families for taking the time to take part. 


patel-family-chapter-readings-approved-image-still

The Patels, from London took part in our Chapter Seventeen chapter reading

patels-caption-text-section

*<center>The Patels from London took part in our filmed-at-home reading of Chapter Seventeen</center>*

WEB-NEWS-seven-ways-lifelong-fans-and-first-time-readers-showed-their-love-for-HPAH-text-section-3

## 4. You created artwork that helped illustrate Harry’s first story
We called and you answered! With each chapter video you will spot fantastic interpretations of the events, characters and locations of each chapter dotted throughout the readings. And we were absolutely blown away by the talent of your submissions! We’ve had incredible artwork from young and older fans alike, not to mention from all over the world! [See for yourself here!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/fans-submit-artwork-for-harry-potter-at-home) We hope you enjoyed creating the illustrations just as much as we enjoyed marvelling at them. 

## 5. You took part in Harry Potter At Home activities – from quizzes to crafting
Right from the start, thousands of you enjoyed our dedicated [Harry Potter At Home hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home), as well as our [First Year Challenges](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/first-year-challenges), [First Year Readers](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/first-year-readers) and [Crafting Magic hubs](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/crafting-magic). In fact, during lockdown a whopping 7 million of you visited [Harrypotterathome.com](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/crafting-magic). You read articles and played quizzes from our friends at Bloomsbury and Scholastic, as well as taking on some crafting challenges of your own. And once the chapter readings started, many of you collected house points with our Chapter Quizzes and Chapter Challenges. Thank you for reading and playing along – in our eyes, you all win the House Cup!

## 6. You inspired a whole new generation of fans to begin their journeys into the wizarding world
Whilst many bookshops around the world remained closed, it was pretty – well – magical that during the Harry Potter At Home initiative, *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* soared to top spots in the Amazon.com chart and Audible.com bestseller lists faster than a Nimbus Two Thousand. And the Harry Potter stories remain some of the most checked out books in libraries – Hermione would be proud! We love that *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* is only just the beginning, and you continue to spread your love for the first story, and the rest of the Harry Potter series in the bad times and in the good! 


mckenna-family-chapter-readings-approved-image-still

The McKennas from Belfast took part in our Chapter Seventeen chapter reading

McKennas-caption-text-section

*<center>The McKennas from Belfast took part in our filmed-at-home reading of Chapter Seventeen</center>*

WEB-NEWS-seven-ways-lifelong-fans-and-first-time-readers-showed-their-love-for-HPAH-text-section-4

## 7. And you want us to bring you more wizarding news, events and activities than ever before! 
Following the Harry Potter At Home initiative, 18 million of you are now signed up to the [Harry Potter Fan Club](https://www.wizardingworld.com/about-the-fan-club), a community where everyone is welcome. And we’ve found that since the initiative began, there have been 3 times more children signing up for the Fan Club – as well as many more adults! It seems a whole new generation of readers are ready to board the Hogwarts Express to  discover more about Hogwarts and follow Harry’s wizarding adventures…  


So thank you for helping us turn on the light in these darkest of times, continuing to love the Harry Potter books more than ever, and helping inspire the joy of reading in a whole new generation of fans. And remember, *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* might be the entrance to the wizarding world – just like your very own book equivalent of Diagon Alley – but there are plenty of Harry’s adventures left to discover. 

[Sign up for the Harry Potter Fan Club newsletter today](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) and be among the first to receive latest wizarding world news, events, activities, exclusives access and more – straight to your inbox. You might have reached the end of the first story, but your Harry Potter journey is only just beginning. 


Harry Potter: Wizards Unite unlocks more magical powers with new SOS Training, Lessons and Spells

WEB-news-harry-potter-wizards-unite-unlocks-more-magical-powers-with-new-sos-training-lessons-and-spells

HPWU SOS artwork

harry-potter-wizards-unite-unlocks-more-magical-powers-with-new-sos-training-lessons-and-spells-text-section.

Your adventures in the Statute of Secrecy Task Force are about to get even more magical, thanks to *Harry Potter: Wizards Unite*’s latest update.

SOS Training means players can now unlock new powerful skills to help them on their ongoing quests to overpower Confoundables, with a series of new lessons available.

![HPWU SOS artwork](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4vAbbo5ztETaSzzQaSdWVT/c06645b9fd6f6741075cd7f1ce1c2ade/SOS_Training_Key_Art_1920x1080.png)

__New skills and thrills__

Upon opening your suitcase, you’ll notice a new button called Training, which will bring up a whole new realm of possibilities for your adventures. For example, at level four, you can unlock Mastery: which will help you make your spells even more powerful.  

A skill called Departure Denial is especially useful, as it reduces the chances of your Foundable escaping as you’re trying to return it. And look out for Reward Upgrades, which will enhance your luck in certain situations throughout the game.

__New spells to learn__

If you’re at level five, you’ll also be able to unlock fresh spells which can be cast directly on your map to help enhance your surroundings: Trace Charms (which help you seek extra Traces in nearby areas), Greenhouse Charms (cast these on Greenhouses to attain rare Potions ingredients) and Inn Charms (which can be cast on Inns to give you more Spell Energy).

__New Potions enhancements__

It’s not just spells and skills up for grabs. If you struggle to brew potions in the game, new Potions enhancements help you boost the strength of your concoctions, increase the number of times you can use them and reduce Brew Times.

__And a bit of 'light' reading__ 

New Field Guides, Ministry Manuals and Defence Against the Dark Arts Books will be provided by the SOS Task Force, which you can use alongside existing Restricted Section Books to unlock some of the latest skills. Simply continue returning Foundables and placing images in the Registry to attain your Field Guides and Ministry Manuals, while Defence Against the Dark Arts Books can be earned by participating in in-game events.

*For more details on SOS Training, [visit the Harry Potter: Wizards Unite blog](https://www.harrypotterwizardsunite.com/) for further info, where you also learn about upcoming Brilliant Events and Community Days.*

Take a first look at the new Harry Potter x Ulta Beauty Collection 

WEB-NEWS-ulta-collection-revealed

HP-X-ULTA-TEASE-2

beauty-product-social-image

ulta-x-hp-collection-text-sect-1

__Update (8th July): Please be aware that some of the Ulta products are currently sold out online.__

While we’ll never be a Metamorphmagus, this brilliant new collection, created by Ulta Beauty, invites you to magically transform yourself with Wizarding World themed cosmetics, nail and skincare products, along with bath and body accessories. 

Inspired by the stories of Harry Potter and the Wizarding World, the collection features everything from bath bombs, body lotions and beauty masks, with some magical surprises woven in. 

The collection caught the imagination of Harry Potter and beauty fans alike, calling it 'every Harry Potter fans' dream', with others saying, 'the line truly has it all'. InsideTheMagic.net dubbed it 'more exciting than a trip to Hogsmeade!', while ThePopInsider.com praised the collection for its 'ultimate nostalgia' feel, promising the range would 'add a little Lumos to your life'. 

Here’s a first glance at the whole [Harry Potter x Ulta Beauty collection, available from their official website now for US-based fans. ](https://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-HARRY%20POTTER/Nty-1?Dy=1&ciSelector=searchResults/)

## Harry Potter Bath Bombs 

![harry-potter-bath-bombs](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ERamSytnhrEhnkFCxB91o/0680357fc63723dfe2d2a559cc67b941/bath_bomb.png)

Themed by the four Hogwarts houses, these bath bombs are no ordinary ones. Upon hitting the water, expect the bomb to transform your bath into a celebration of your favourite Hogwarts house colour. 

## Harry Potter Bewitching PH Balm 

![ph-lip-balm](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/TkFrusXD8mbev9pDWfoFe/ad4a8877b1cd8b7a9e3b58adceb29688/lip_balm_bigger.png)

Infused with coconut oil, Vitamin E and Aloe Leaf Extract, these magical lip balms react to your skin’s PH levels and create the perfect colour shade to compliment your tone. 

## Harry Potter Body Lotion 

![body-lotion-no-background](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/274owfPR51ccElhuNrVKpY/b0ab161d69e35c4b84f0439e854135fb/bottles.png)

Again, themed around the Hogwarts houses, these body lotions are individually flavoured to match your house traits. Gryffindor’s lotion is flavoured with the bold scent of blackberries, Slytherin’s lotion smells like soothing rain drops, Hufflepuff’s scent has floral notes, and Ravenclaw’s is flavoured with cucumbers.

## Harry Potter Cosmetic bag 

![cosmetic-bag-no-background](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4AIXM9xl9XGAMX9ouVbt9J/67d1c098d47856020518b7d48dc66740/bags.png)

Of course, you’ll need something to put all your new products in, and these cosmetic bags come adorned with your Hogwarts house traits. 

## Harry Potter Deathly Hallows Brush Kit 

![hallows-brushes-bigger](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/G50p9cse1bo74zWBJlVeB/5515661bf499c7db0370f54a6e5c7df3/brushes.png)

Themed around the Deathly Hallows, the most powerful objects in the wizarding world, these brushes will certainly help you become the Master of Make-up! 

## Hogwarts house themed eye shadow palettes 

![eye-shadow](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/F4Dv2pzOnfqRO3ghSixot/c63515d818a84dc22428b7c0949f4893/eyeshadowbigege.png)

Next up, these eye shadow palettes, with different wizarding world colour schemes. After all, why have boring old brown eye shadow when you can now have Chocolate Frog brown matte?

Each set is once again coloured around your Hogwarts house, with Gryffindor championing strong autumnal shades, Hufflepuffs boasting golds and rust-coloured tones, Ravenclaws shimmering with baby blues and silver glitter, and Slytherins celebrating shades of sage greens and silver shimmer. 

For those who aren’t so sure where they belong, you could always get all four palettes, boxed up in this special ‘vault’. 

## Harry Potter house nail polish strips 

![nail-polish-strips](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5ZlrCt2K9pZFiGYGxTAkdA/886b48e863d28c14d32371450a55742c/nail_varnish.png)

Get your Hogwarts house inspired nails on, with these polish strips that dry in no time at all. Magic.  

## House pride hair set 

![hair-ties](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4OgEFktGptI0i8ehx9fnDQ/9211ba37f249bfca7b6675a4f0c96ff6/hair_ties.png)

Embrace your inner 90s kid with these hair ribbons and velvet scrunchies, themed around Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Slytherin or Ravenclaw.

## Harry Potter lip gloss 

![lip-gloss](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5hH2RZYTbFmlRJGrjEFyOr/4c51cc67dbe5815bd6ceb3612e4f45fb/lipgloss_.png)

No Scourgify spells required here; this lip gloss will leave you sparkling.

## Lumos Face and body shimmer drops 

![shimmer-drops-smaller](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5ubEHJi7CN3Ss7UHvWjC5n/e0e09e6ecf23eec1d182a744e7226543/shimmer.png)

Inspired by the illuminating charm, Lumos, these shimmer drops will help give your skin some extra sparkle.

## Harry Potter lip crayons 

![lip-crayons](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7rTrAhQpbchDr3yEFbPURs/ce9ee631716ca475b5d9072ca123e069/lip_crayons.png)

This lightweight pigmented lipstick has a natural matte finish, so you can rock up to your Harry Potter parties looking extra slick. 

## Pygmy Puff blush 

![pygmy-puff](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7hcEv03ompuF8WjTdeZflj/5edb22e0cf79c34801bf873eb82d9f56/JELLY.png)

The Harry Potter x Ulta Beauty collection’s Jelly Blush set is inspired by the adorably colourful magical creatures, Pygmy Puffs! Well, you wouldn’t want a beauty-set looking like a Blast-Ended Skrewt, would you?

## Quidditch sheet face masks 

![face-masks](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/ci4WUDaKjmMAS2OUQGEyE/af57ff61ceeebe4b66ebb35345b3a8c4/facemasks.png)

Finally, hydrate your face with these Quidditch-themed masks, with each Hogwarts house represented accordingly. Gryffindor masks come infused with bamboo charcoal, Slytherins with Aloe Vera juice, Hufflepuffs with lime juice, and Ravenclaws come with a touch of pomegranate. Just what you need after a stressful match! 

If you're based in the US, you can peruse the entire Harry Potter x Ulta Beauty collection at the [official website](https://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-HARRY%20POTTER/Nty-1?Dy=1&ciSelector=searchResults). The range is also available from Ulta Beauty stores from 26 July. 

HP-X-ULTA-teaser

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone named best and most influential book in the past 30 years by British Book Awards 

WEB-NEWS-philosophers-stone-wins-nibbie-award-2020

harry-potter-philosophers-stone-image-bloomsbury-cover-crop

harry-potter-philosophers-stone-image-bloomsbury-cover-crop-2

british-book-awards-2020-text-sect-1

The British Book Awards showcase and celebrate the best books, bookshops and publishers, and this year, *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, published by Bloomsbury in the UK, has been honoured in their special 30from30 prize. Watch below to see J.K. Rowling’s acceptance speech. 

The Nibbies Acceptance Speech

nibbies-video

nibbies-2020

british-book-awards-2020-text-sect-2

‘It is a massive honour to receive a 30th anniversary Best of the Nibbies award for *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*,’ she said. ‘It is particularly meaningful because the first award Harry ever won was a Nibbie.’ 

*Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* was chosen from a longlist of 30 books, all past winners of the awards.  In their Winners’ Supplement The Bookseller said of the win: 

‘*Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* was the book that lived. It changed everything for everyone and is the rightful winner of this one-off award.’

You can [visit The Bookseller website](https://www.thebookseller.com) to see more award winners from this year’s virtual ceremony. 

*Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* is currently being revisited as part of Harry Potter At Home, with famous fans and friends of the Wizarding World reading different chapters of the first book in a very special readalong.

[You can visit the Harry Potter At Home hub here](http://harrypotterathome.com/), where you’ll find all sorts of activities to entertain fans at home, including special contributions from Bloomsbury and Scholastic, craft videos, fun articles, quizzes, puzzles and plenty more for first-time readers, as well as those already familiar with the wizarding world.

Illustration © Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Cyber Monday: Up to 70% across everything on the Harry Potter Shop

TRENDING SEARCHES

News