Harry Potter fans the world over will be very familiar with tomorrow’s date, September 1. It’s a momentous time in the series when witches and wizards depart, each year, from King’s Cross’s Platform 9¾ to start their first day of a new year at Hogwarts. The day has become so popular that (in the real world) it’s now recognised as the day of the Back to Hogwarts celebration. Hordes of Harry Potter fans will be Slytherin on their way to King’s Cross station to count down to the Hogwarts Express’ departure.
Around the world, the day is set to be marked by watch parties, cinema events, quiz competitions, and all sorts of other celebrations. And King’s Cross will light up their departure board with a special announcement at 11:00am for the fictional train’s departure.
One lucky fan, the winner of a recent competition, will lead the ‘Back To Hogwarts’ countdown.
Said Pam Lifford, President, Global Brands, Franchises and Experiences, at Warner Bros. Discovery:
“Back to Hogwarts is a day cherished by Harry Potter fans of all ages, from all over the world. Just like their passion for the magic of the stories, their celebrations grow every year! 2023 is set to be a year like no other – we will see fan world record attempts in Germany, high octane quiz competitions in France and of course, the UK’s search to find the perfect person to join that amazing countdown. We are so proud to offer new and exciting ways to bring fans together and give them new ways to celebrate the Harry Potter magic – there’s nothing quite like Back To Hogwarts!”
The Back to Hogwarts celebration will also be accented by several activations and experiences around King’s Cross station from September 1-3. Visitors can sip on Butterbeer, play games, and take part in giveaways and photo opportunities. There will even be a chance for fans to “spin Bloomsbury’s giant wand spinner and find out whose wand they are best suited to”.