If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then your dream is to throw a magical party that captures the atmosphere and excitement of the books and films. To help you put together a first-rate Harry Potter themed party of your own, we have put together this guide. From creating a magical atmosphere to crafting decorations and making costumes, here’s how to throw the perfect Harry Potter party.
Creating a Magical Atmosphere
The first – and arguably most important – step in hosting a magical Harry Potter themed party is creating the right atmosphere. There are lots of ways to accomplish this, from classic decorations like flying keys, floating candles, and pumpkins to relaxing music and furniture that looks like it’s straight out of Hogwarts. If you want to get really in the Wizarding World spirit, you can even invite a professional harpist or wizard character to greet your guests at the door.
Choosing a Venue
The location of your Harry Potter party is almost as important as the atmosphere itself. You want to choose a setting that not only has the look and feel of Hogwarts, but that is also able to accommodate your guests comfortably. Outdoor venues like gardens or terraces offer an excellent way to create an enchanted atmosphere with decorations, while indoor venues are more versatile since they can be transformed into almost any environment. Look for spaces that have enough room for everyone to move around, play games, eat, and have a good time.
Planning the Menu
Of course, no Harry Potter themed party is complete without the right food. In order to create the perfect magical feast, come up with recipes inspired by the books and movies – cauldron cakes, butterbeer, pumpkin pasties, gillyweed salad, etc. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even re-create iconic dishes like Professor Snape’s stew or Hagrid’s rock cakes from scratch. For drinks, make a selection of potions in a variety of colors, conjure up some magical cocktails, and of course provide plenty of classic sodas and juices for guests to choose from.
Crafting Decorations
Nothing helps bring the Hogwarts vibes quite like decorations. Hang up mini copies of the Daily Prophet, adorn tables with golden snitches and mini House crest banners, and string up stars and moons along the walls. Hang paper lanterns in shades of gold and silver, pile up cauldrons filled with sweets and treats, and fill vases with assorted branches and sticks to evoke the Forbidden Forest. You can even try making your own moving portraits (simply attach photos onto strands of fishing line). With the right decorations, your party will truly capture the spirit of Harry Potter.
Selecting Entertainment
To keep guests entertained all night long, you’ll need to select some fun activities and entertainment. Host a Triwizard Tournament trivia challenge, organize thrilling escape rooms inspired by Hagrid’s Hut or Professor Umbridge’s office, or organize a magical game of Quidditch using brooms and bludgers. For added fun, hire a Doctor Who-style TARDIS photo booth or set up a magical music system with songs from the soundtracks. The possibilities when it comes to entertainment are endless!
Organizing Activities and Games
Activities and games are another key element of any Harry Potter party. Set up stations where guests can practice spells (in the form of crafts), practice their Patronus charms (with special glow-in-the-dark Frisbees or soft toy snitches), mix potions and brews (using various ingredients from the kitchen), or play games like capture the flag or pin the tail on the dragon. For younger guests, think about activities like unicorn bookmarks, wand making, pumpkin decorating, and more.
Making Magical Costumes and Accessories
No Harry Potter party is complete without costumes! Encourage guests to dress as their favorite characters – ranging from Harry himself to Hagrid – and make sure to provide wands as well as other accessories like glasses, ties, hats, robes, etc. If you want to take things to the next level, you could even organize a costume contest complete with prizes for the best outfit.
Taking Magical Photos of the Event
Capture all your special memories with beautiful photos. Set up your own “photo booth” near the entrance (complete with props), or have a professional photographer come in throughout the night to take individual and group shots. Make sure to also take plenty of photos throughout the event to document all your magical activities.
Creating Take-Home Party Favors
Sending people home with take-home party favors is always a great way to thank them for coming out and celebrating with you. Consider simply printing out your favorite photos from the night, but you can also go above and beyond by providing homemade items like chocolates shaped like owls or personalized House pins. Of course, don’t forget to provide Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans for each guest for an extra-magical touch!
Now you know how to throw a magical Harry Potter themed party. With the right preparations and decorations, your event will be one that everyone remembers!
