Posted on June 24th, 2010
Editor’s Note: Have you checked out Harry Potter’s Wizzarding World at Islands of Adventure yet? Our very own Chrissy Allen, PLAYGROUND co-founder, was invited to the Grand Opening Celebration - check out her photos and get the skinny on the event.
Harry Potter fan … I am not. Fan of really cool opening night parties … I am! So, when I received my invite to attend the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Grand Opening Celebration at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure, I was super excited! The star-studded event was complete with a walk down the red carpet, thrilling rides and all the wizardry and magic to behold. The evening was served with delicious desserts and a wizardly brew called Butterbeer … think non-alcoholic butterscotch brew - YUM! The highlight of the night was a celebrity welcome by Harry Potter, AKA Daniel Radcliffe, himself followed by fireworks and a ride through Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The ride was nothing short of AhhhMazzzing!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has replaced what used to be the Lost Continent. The old “Dueling Dragons” rollercoaster has been magically transformed into the Dragon Challenge, where Muggle volunteers can experience the thrill of the Triwizard Cup.
PLAYGROUND TIP #1: Nighttime coaster ride is a must, please put on your summer bucket list.
PLAYGROUND TIP #2: Wait to enjoy your Butterbeer until after you get off the coaster!
One must-visit place in the Wizarding World is Ollivander’s Wand shop, where delighted Potter fans watch as the wand chooses its wizard.
Universal seems to have cast a spell on me as I am now a Harry Potter fan and can’t wait to read my first Harry Potter book … wait, who am I foolin’? I will just rent the movie. With Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I due out November 19, 2010, the Wizarding World is sure to be a bustling hub for Potter fans far and wide.
