Accio April! Anticipating A New Wizarding World!

Hogwarts in California! The countdown to 7 April 2016 continues, when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Fans of the beloved books and films will soon have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in a world of thrills and excitement as they experience their own magical adventures.

One of the most exciting aspects of this dynamic new land is Hogsmeade™, which fans of the books and films will know as the picturesque wizarding village where Hogwarts students can visit on weekends to shop, eat, and enjoy free-time away from school. I was fortunate to visit Hogsmeade™ at Universal Studios Orlando and it was an unforgettable experience – I couldn’t believe my eyes! The village seemed to jump from page and from screen into vivid life with such amazing detail.

The streets of Hogsmeade™ truly bring the world of Harry Potter to life. At Universal Studios Hollywood, the shops waiting to be explored include Ollivanders™, Honeydukes™, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, and the Owl Post™. Potterheads will be in heaven and hours will pass in the blink of an eye (without using a Time-Turner!)!

Hogsmeade™ Village

Charming storefronts in Hogsmeade™ Village

After shopping and exploring, weary Muggles ready for a feast can enjoy an enticing array of authentic food and drinks from the Harry Potter stories, served at the land’s Three Broomsticks™ and Hog’s Head pub.

The Three Broomsticks™

When visitors step into the Three Broomsticks™, they will find a warm and inviting rustic tavern taken straight from the wizarding world, where they can enjoy authentic meals while seated at custom-made wooden tables, chairs, and benches. Guests are in for a real treat when they see the offerings!

Interior of the Three Broomsticks™

The eclectic menu will feature traditional British fare carefully prepared by Universal Studios Hollywood’s executive chef and culinary team. Sample menu items include bangers & mash (savory grilled English sausages with creamy mashed potatoes and minted peas), shepherd’s pie (ground beef and vegetables, crowned with potatoes), Sunday beef roast (prime rib of beef with Yorkshire pudding and gravy), beef lamb and Guinness stew, and the classic fish and chips. Rounding out the hearty fare are decadent treats such as Butterbeer™ potted cream and sticky toffee pudding. It is sure to be an authentic taste of Britain in the sunshine of southern California!

Shepherd’s Pie with garden salad, served at the Three Broomsticks™

Bangers & Mash, served at the Three Broomsticks™

Inspired by historic British taverns, the adjoining Hog’s Head pub will feature original draught beers, spirits, and ciders created exclusively for the land, including Hog’s Head Brew, Dragon’s Scale, Wizard’s Brew, and Fire Whisky.

The Hog’s Head Pub, complete with barrels of Butterbeer™

A visit to Hogsmeade is not complete without sampling the beverage staples: pumpkin juice™, pumpkin fizz, gilly water, and the fan favorite… Butterbeer™! Served traditionally and frozen (the frozen version is particularly delicious!), Butterbeer™ will make your visit extra special. Grab your mug, enjoy the atmosphere, and daydream about which House the Sorting Hat would choose for you…

Delicious Butterbeer™ & Pumpkin Juice™

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood will be a feast for the senses – from the cobblestone streets to the colorful storefronts to the authentic British fare. A magical world brought to life in the entertainment capital of the world… so hop on your broom or grab your Portkey and experience it for yourself!

Join the conversation online using #WizardingWorldHollywood and be the first to see new developments by liking Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and following @UniStudios on Twitter and Instagram.

Meghan McKillop is American by birth but British at heart. Endlessly fascinated by British culture, entertainment, history, royalty, literature, and travel, she aspires to indulge her curiosity while sharing her passions and discoveries with Anglophiles everywhere.