For those who've always wanted to walk the halls of Hogwarts or explore the shops of Diagon Alley (对角巷), Universal Orlando offers the next best thing. The theme park opened every Harry Potter fan's dream place back in 2010.
For Potterheads everywhere, however, deciding when to make the trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is not easy. These tips will help you experience the best of the Wizarding World, whether you're looking to save money, avoid the busy season, or simply experience the most magical times of the year.
The cheapest times to visit Harry Potter's world
The cheapest (and least busy) months to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are January and most of February, except the days surrounding the New Year and winter break. Other inexpensive times include the beginning of March and most of September and October.
The best Harry Potter events at Universal
While they may not be the quietest times to explore Harry Potter's world, Universal holds many events throughout the year that fans won't want to miss.
• A Celebration of Harry Potter
For a weekend every January, Universal hosts A Celebration of Harry Potter. Guests (wearing their class robes, no doubt) will join other diehard Potter fans for three days of exhibits, discussions and cast Q&A activities. For anyone who really loves the books and the films, this may be one of the best times of the year to visit.
• Christmas in the Wizarding World
Universal's new additions to their holiday entertainment lineup make Hogwarts the perfect place to be around Christmastime. Decorations add beauty to the shops of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, the Frog Choir sings Christmas carols (颂歌), and snow falls on Hogwarts as a festive show takes place in front of the castle.
• Halloween in the Wizarding World
Lastly (and perhaps most surprisingly), Halloween season is also a good time for a magical visit to the Wizarding World. Universal's main Halloween event, Halloween Horror Nights, produces a special Harry Potter-related surprise.