By MJ Wilke

 

A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort is January 26-28, 2018. This three-day event has activities unique to that weekend only and occurs just once a year. It is, in a nutshell, a comic-con occurring in a theme park during a vacation package.

 

The event takes place at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks. Admission to the Celebration is included with any park-to-park ticket or annual pass that weekend; however, there are exclusive events that are only available to those who purchase the Celebration Vacation Package. Similar to a comic-con, the events include celebrity appearances, panels, and an expo.

 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a very immersive theme park experience, spanning two of Universal Orlando’s theme parks. You will find Hogsmeade & Hogwarts connected to King’s Cross Station & Diagon Alley by the Hogwarts Express. Whereas some theme parks can be hokie, The Wizarding World is built with stunning detail. It does not trivialize the subject matter, it honors it. See more here at our our Gallery of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

 

Whether this is your first celebration or you are a Hogwarts alumni, here are some useful hints and reminders to make A Celebration of Harry Potter 2017 unforgettable.

 

Before You Go

Read. A Celebration of Harry Potter: A Vacation Tickling Sleeping Dragons article for a Wayward Nerd view of the weekend.

Books and Movies. Re-watch and/or re-read your favorites from the Harry Potter series.

 

Remember To Pack

• Comfortable Shoes. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is at the far end of the parks.

• Sunscreen. Although it is January, still keep in mind that you will be in the sun for most of the day.

• Sweater/Jacket/Sweatshirt. The daytime temperature in January for Florida can drop to the high 50s and the evening temperatures are typically in the low 50s. Why not make it a Hogwarts cardigan?

 

Manage Your Tech

• Download the Universal Orlando Resort App, which provides park maps and ride wait times.

• Don’t forget to bring a backup power supply for your cell phone with you each day. Your phone will run out of juice when you need it most.

• For a little mood music, download the Harry Potter Original Motion Picture Soundtrack composed and conducted by John Williams. This is great for listening to while you pack for your trip.

Stock your room. Resorts charge a premium for bottled water. Plan some time upon arrival on your way to the resort to stop at a grocery or convenience store to stock up on beverages and healthy snacks for your room.

 

Nerdy Places. If you’re arriving before the weekend or leaving afterward, consider adding a trip to Kennedy Space Center or see the new Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney Hollywood Studios. Check out some of our other Nerdy Places in Florida.

 

Looking for more Harry Potter? Check out all of our Harry Potter Nerd Buys. And for more travel tips, our Top Tips section is full of useful information.

 

Is your wand at the ready? We’ll see you there.