The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Grand Opening

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort kicked off its grand opening celebration tonight with help from Harry Potter film stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Tom Felton, James and Oliver Phelps, Matthew Lewis, Bonnie Wright, Michael Gambon, Warwick Davis.

Hundreds of people gathered in front of Hogwarts castle for a spectacular display of fireworks choreographed to a special performance of music from the Harry Potter films conducted live by renowned composer John Williams. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will officially grand open to the public this Friday, June 18.

More than five years in the making, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has become the most highly anticipated entertainment experience of 2010. The Harry Potter books and films have captured the hearts and minds of millions – and now, guests can experience the adventure first-hand at Universal Orlando Resort. The spectacularly themed area, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters, features multiple themed attractions, shops and a restaurant – all faithful to the books and films.

Visitors to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be swept into the adventures of Harry Potter. They will tour Hogwarts castle, shop in Hogsmeade and dine in the Three Broomsticks. Other adventures will allow them to fly with Harry, ride on a dragon, sample Butterbeer, eat exploding sweets – and experience all the magic and adventure of the Harry Potter books and films.

“I said right at the beginning, either we do it right or we don’t do it at all,” said J.K. Rowling, author of the widely successful Harry Potter series. “The teams at Universal and Warner Bros. have done it right, so I am so happy.”

The heart of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is Hogwarts castle – visible from everywhere within Islands of Adventure. And within the castle is what may be the most exhilarating theme park attraction ever created: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. This all-new adventure combines a powerful storyline with spectacular new technology so effectively guests will be completely immersed in the experience. The ride will take guests on a journey where they will travel by Floo Network, soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.

AND, guests can experience the mischief of Zonko’s, the magic of Ollivanders, the scrumptious delights of the Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub or buy their very own Marauder’s Map at Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods. They can mail letters from Hogsmeade at the Owl Post, buy Hogwarts school robes at Dervish and Banges or rest under the rafters of the Owlery. Visitors can brave a Hungarian Horntail or a Chinese Fireball on the dueling roller coasters of Dragon Challenge or learn a few tips from Hagrid before taking a training flight on Flight of the Hippogriff.