If you are anywhere near my age, not too old but not too young, you, without a doubt, grew up with the Harry Potter series by the amazingly talented J.K. Rowling. (And if you didn't, then just stop reading here.) When the final installment of the movies came out in 2011, you probably thought like me, "Oh my gosh, what am I going to do with my life now?" I think we can all say that we never thought that four years after the last movie and eight years later after the last book that Harry Potter fandom and stories would be as strong as ever. And so, here, in one spot, is everything officially Harry Potter guided by J.K. Rowling (or Warner Brothers Studios) "after" the series "ended".
1. Pottermore - 2009
This website was the first sign of life after it was all over. J.K. Rowling decided to reveal some stories and pieces of information that did not make it into the books. It's an interactive site where the user going through each chapter of the book, seeing artwork, collecting wizarding trinkets, and learning even more about the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
I tried out the website when the Beta version was released and I got to participate in The Magical Quill Challenge. I had to wake up in the middle of the night (the "magical" hour) when J.K. Rowling left us a question to answer on the site. Only hardcore Harry Potter fans could answer these questions. Like the one I had to answer was "How many breeds of owls were featured on the Eeylops Owl Emporium sign? Multiply this number by 49." Only a certain number of people could get in with the correct answer before it was shut down for the next night. Seven books, seven chances. It felt awesome to get exclusive access to J.K. Rowling's mind.
2. Text Books - released throughout the years
There are many textbooks that Harry and his friends used that you can use too! Books like "Quidditch Through the Ages," "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them," and "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" are available for any muggle to read. In particular, 2013 the "Hogwarts Library" was released which is a box set of textbooks.
I have "Beedle the Bard" but I'm too terrified to touch it because I want it to stay perfect forever. So depending on what kind of fan you are you may or may not love these.
3. Harry Potter World - 2010
Sad to say I haven't been here yet, so I can't say much. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is in Florida, but is going to be coming to California soon, as well! Come on down to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida and experience Hogwarts and Hogsmeade as never before! It's been growing ever since it opened, so perhaps I'll make the trip soon.
From the many videos I've stalked of people going to the park, it seems like a more experience-type setting. There aren't that many rides, but my other diehard Harry Potter friends assured me they had the best time ever.
4. Harry Potter Studio Tour - 2012
Holly Moly, this place is amazing! Unfortunately, you need to live in the actual UK for this one...good thing I studied abroad in London earlier this year!
I honestly can't even begin to describe how incredible this place is. They have saved so much from the years of filming and they keep adding exhibits to their collection! Like, I honestly can't/don't really want to spoil anything, so just look at some of my pictures below. But this is the ultimate behind-the-scenes, exclusive place for diehard Harry Potter fans... and yes, it's perfectly normal to bring your wand and wizard robe.
5. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Summer 2016
Unfortunately, this is another one that you have to live in London to see, so I'm predicting London Heathrow Airport is going to get to very, very busy next year!
This play is what every single Harry Potter fan could have possibly asked for: the next installment in the Harry Potter series. That's right. You heard me.
J.K. Rowling, herself, has written this play that takes place 19 years after the last book, focusing on Harry's son, Albus Severus Potter, as he works at the Ministry of Magic. The best part? It's not just one play, it's two. You can break up the tickets any way you like: see them both in one day, see one day and the other the day after. But it's more official HP!
The bad news? Tickets are going fast. I'm talking really fast. Three-hour queues. Online sites crashing. But this just shows how strong the fandom still is!
6. "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" - 2016
In other words...we still got a while! *sobs*
This movie has long been talked about. It's honestly felt like ages, and I had stopped listening to all the fan theories because it just got way too confusing—so here are the real facts.
The movie will be released November 18th 2016.
Newt Scamander will be played by Oscar and BAFTA winner Eddie Redmayne.
The basic plot: Taking place in 1926, Scamander will be chasing down magical creatures in New York. (Why does everything always happen in New York?? -.- )
The first few production stills have been released!!! See them here!!
->>> http://www.ew.com/gallery/fantastic-beasts-where-t...
7. J.K. Rowling's Twitter Account - gold mine, always!
Lastly, J.K. Rowling's Twitter Account is a gold mine of information for anything HP. For example, the other day I learned that the only reason Uncle Vernon kept cable was to watch "Top Gear." I also learned what her favorite tea is. So when in doubt, check her Twitter account! -> https://twitter.com/jk_rowling?ref_src=twsrc^goo...
You don't even need Twitter to view it, so don't feel like you have to sign up.
If I missed anything, tell me. 'Cause I want to know!! Until next time,
Mischief managed.
