A Novel Love Chocolate Frog Bookmarks (Product Review)

Chocolate frogs are one of my favorite snacks from the Harry Potter universe. But they aren't necessarily the easiest treat to enjoy - not only are they ready to jump away as soon as you open the package, but you can't eat all of the frogs you want once you catch them and avoid gaining a muggle pound.

One of my favorite discoveries as a Harry Potter fan has been these gorgeous chocolate frog inspired bookmarks! Made with love from A Novel Love Gifts on Etsy, these stunning designs are so much fun to use while reading and using in my planners. Adding them to my collection as Harry Potter fan and bookworm always makes me smile.

Christmas at Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley

For the holiday season this year, Universal Orlando Resort's theme parks decked the hall of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. To the delight of Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been magically transformed for Christmas. (Here's my visit at Hogsmeade and the Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts). I was lucky and excited to dash over to the Harry Potter theme parks in Orlando and see the transformation at Diagon Alley. Take a look below for all the special spots you don't want to miss this holiday season! Hope you enjoy!

Stuck between a bookstore Screed and Sons and a record shop, The Leaky Cauldron remains undercover from Muggles in plain sight as the rest of London dazzles with lights and wreaths.

New Interactive Harry Potter Ride Coming to Universal?

Universal Orlando Resort and it's subsequent parks around the world in California and Japan have made dreams come true for millions of Harry Potter fans with their spectacularly themed wizarding world lands.

New information has been unveiled about a possible ride attraction that will make Potterheads feel even more excited about the possibilities to come.

The Orlando Business Journal has discovered Universal's latest patent about a video game ride that would “receive respective inputs from one or more riders” on board a vehicle.

The mention of wands, spells and wizards makes it difficult not to assume that Universal has another amazing attraction up their sleeves for their magical guests.

More details about the possible future attraction comes to light throughout the patent such as: the use of wands, guests casting spell, the environment of the ride changing depending on inputs received by the guests and various outcomes depending on how players perform.

It even sounds as if the age of guests may have influence on the ride experience itself, such as a rider of a young age may enjoy a family- friendly feature while older riders may explore something more dark and mature.

The patent uses the example of a "wizard-themed game" that could have riders use different wands associated with characters and use those wands at specific moments to score points, competing with opposing teams or to accomplish a joint goal.

Another passage from the patent explains the intricacy of wand motion for players:

In certain embodiments, the score input may include input from external sensors that capture player motion, such as wand motion, and provide the motion characteristics as input to a score determination algorithm. If the wand motion is associated with a particular spell that is an effective spell for the game, the player’s score may be updated to indicate a successful ‘freezing spell’ or other spell has been cast.

Though Universal has yet to give an official confirmation or expanding details about the patent, it's concept could go in several directions for a new ride at one of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme parks.

For instance, one of the beloved coasters at Universal's sister park Islands of Adventure is the beloved Dragon Challenge. Within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade, guests ride dueling coasters in a bid to capture the golden egg, just like in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. 

It may just be a timely coincidence that this patent was submitted as Dragon Challenge is up for refurbishment soon. There is not specific or official end date announced for it's renovation - which could mean a replacement is in the works. Especially since Warner Bros has expressed interest in a Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them as a theme park attraction.

There is also a case to be made about a Ministry of Magic attraction. While this is purely an idea etched on fans' wishlists, some guests have surmised that a ride through the wizarding political offices would be a stunning addition. One can imagine that the ride may be set in a similar situation as Harry, Ron and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix or Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows with guests facing off against death eaters, dementors and Dolores Umbridge.

It's easy to assume with the patent that all wands point to the wizarding world in Orlando. It's also good to take note that even with this dazzling and promising technology, the patent may or may not come to fruition even though it's been officially filed. Only time will tell!

Ultimate Playlist at Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando

Magic is always in the air at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. All around Universal Orlando's wizarding theme parks are extraordinarily detailed nods to the movies we love. One element of the films we love is the music. It might not be a surprise that the soundtracks are used from the movies. In 2014, upon the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, 48 songs were described to be used throughout both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. That's a lot of music!

If you're on vacation at the Universal Orlando theme parks, take a moment to pause and listen to the music within the Harry Potter lands. Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade has an amazing collection of scores that will take you back to your favorite scenes from the film franchise. Below is an ultimate guide of songs you will hear, and most importantly, where.

Modern London

+ Harry's Wondrous World / Sorcerer's Stone
+ Aunt Marge's Waltz / Prisoner of Azkaban
+ Harry In Winter / Goblet of Fire
+ Rita Skeeter / Goblet of Fire (As one of the more obscure songs from the film franchise, you will hear this one everywhere, especially Diagon Alley).
+ Wizard Wheezes / Half Blood Prince

Diagon Alley

+ Hedwig's Theme / all of the films
+ Harry's Wondrous World / Sorcerer's Stone
+ Rita Skeeter / Goblet of Fire
+ Dumbledore's Army / Order of the Phoenix
+ Fireworks / Half Blood Prince
+ Living Death / Half Blood Prince
+ The Slug Party / Half Blood Prince
+ Epilogue (19 years later) / Deathly Hallows Part 2

Knockturn Alley

+ The Friends / Half Blood Prince
+ Harry and Hermione / Half Blood Prince
+ Snape and the Unbreakable Vow / Half Blood Prince
+ Severus and Lily / Deathly Hallows Part 2

The Leaky Cauldron

+ Dueling The Basilisk / Chamber of Secrets (the first thirty seconds only)
+ Professor Umbridge / Order of the Phoenix
+ Fireworks / Order of the Phoenix
+ When Ginny Kisses Harry / Half Blood Prince

The Three Broomsticks

+ Foreign Visitors Arrive / Goblet of Fire
+ The Friends / Half Blood Prince
+ The Weasley Stomp / Half Blood Prince
+ The Slug Party / Half Blood Prince

Hogsmeade
+ Harry's Wondrous World / Sorcerer's Stone
+ Hedwig's Theme / all of the films
+ Double Trouble / Prisoner of Azkaban (most commonly played at the Hogsmeade Station for the Hogwarts Express attraction)
+ Harry in Winter / Goblet of Fire
+ Potter Waltz / Goblet of Fire

Harry Potter Cast Set for A Celebration of Harry Potter Event at Universal Orlando Resort

HARRY POTTER FILM TALENT ROBBIE COLTRANE, MICHAEL GAMBON, JAMES PHELPS, OLIVER PHELPS AND EVANNA LYNCH TO APPEAR AT “A CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER” EVENT AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT 

Three-Day Event to Feature Film Talent Q&A Sessions, a Wand Combat Masterclass, the Sorting Hat Experience and More

Orlando, Fla. (November 6, 2014) – Harry Potter film talent Robbie Coltrane, Michael Gambon, James Phelps, Oliver Phelps and Evanna Lynch are slated to appear at the second annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter” – a special event hosted by Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Entertainment. The event allows fans to celebrate all of Harry’s adventures, from the beloved books to the feature films.  Creative talent also set to appear includes Paul Harris, the world’s only Wand Combat choreographer, Kazu Kibuishi, illustrator of Scholastic’s re-imagined Harry Potter book covers, and Eduardo Lima and Miraphora Mina of MinaLima, who established the visual graphic style of the Harry Potter films.

“A Celebration of Harry Potter” will take place from January 30 – February 1, 2015 at Universal Orlando. Fans will enjoy three days of incredible experiences, including Q&A and autograph sessions with Harry Potter film talent, special discussions and demonstrations with creative talent, and access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo – where fans can enjoy the Sorting Hat experience, pose for a photo in a recreation of the iconic Great Hall set and celebrate their Hogwarts house pride in an interactive Pottermore exhibit. 

Guests can also experience Harry Potter’s world for themselves by visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the all-new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Vacation Package guests and those with a park-to-park ticket will also be able to board the iconic Hogwarts Express and enjoy a unique journey as they travel between King’s Cross Station and Hogsmeade Station. 

Access to “A Celebration of Harry Potter” is included with regular theme park admission or with an annual pass, with admission to certain activities being granted on a first-come, first-served basis. While most of the activities for “A Celebration of Harry Potter” will be open to all Universal Orlando park guests, guests who purchase the exclusive event vacation package will enjoy certain special benefits and reserved sections for the discussions and demonstrations.

Event details are below:

“A CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER” DISCUSSIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS

Discussions and Q&A sessions will be available featuring Harry Potter film talent and crew, with special demonstrations and discussions for kids. Admission into discussions and demonstrations will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific times will be released at a later date.

• Behind the Scenes: Harry Potter Film Talent Discussion

Enjoy a fascinating and interactive Q&A session featuring some of your favorite actors from the Harry Potter films. Discover what it was like to work on the most successful film franchise in history.    

• Duelling Demonstration & Wand Combat Masterclass with Paul Harris

Pick up your wand and take part in a live duelling masterclass, hosted by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, featuring the world’s only Wand Combat choreographer, Paul Harris. Paul choreographed the epic battle scenes in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and will be on hand to teach you the technique behind wielding a wand.

• Creating The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Alan Gilmore, Art Director for the Harry Potter films, will explain how he and his team brought the world of Harry Potter to life from the fiction to the films, and eventually in the two lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. In addition, hear firsthand from Universal Orlando’s Entertainment team how live shows in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley were created, as well as some of the hidden “secrets” and innovative interactive elements contained within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 

• Graphic Design for the Harry Potter Films with MinaLima

Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, from the graphic design studio MinaLima, will share insights into their role as Graphic Prop Designers for more than a decade on the Harry Potter movies.  They will discuss and show some of the iconic props they created for the Harry Potter films, including the Marauder’s Map, the Daily Prophet and The Quibbler, amongst others.  Still immersed in all things Harry Potter, they will also talk about their recent involvement in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley.

• Illustration of Harry Potter with Kazu Kibuishi

Award-winning illustrator Kazu Kibuishi, who reimagined the Harry Potter book covers for Scholastic, will be drawing some of your favorite Harry Potter characters live on-stage in this interactive panel for all ages.

This year’s “A Celebration of Harry Potter” will also include kids’ discussions and interactive experiences such as a special duelling demonstration and wand combat masterclass with Paul Harris, an interactive ‘Dance Like a Beauxbatons and Battle Like a Durmstrang’ experience, as well as Harry Potter film trivia.

“A CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER” EXPO The Expo will be held inside a Universal Orlando soundstage and will be open to guests throughout the weekend.  The expo will include the following booths and exhibits that will give guests deeper insight into the global phenomenon that is Harry Potter:

• Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Sorting Hat Experience

Do you think you are a Gryffindor, or a Slytherin? A Hufflepuff? Perhaps a Ravenclaw? At the beginning of each school year the Sorting Hat sorts new Hogwarts students into the appropriate house, and you’ll have the opportunity to get sorted in a Hogwarts-inspired setting…sponsored by Harry Potter™: The Exhibition.

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

The production home of the Harry Potter film series, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London gives visitors the chance to step on to the actual sets used during filming. ‘A Celebration of Harry Potter’ visitors will get a chance to pose for a photo in a recreation of the iconic Great Hall.

• MinaLima

Graphic designers Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima created countless pieces of unforgettable artwork, some of which will be on display including iconic pieces such as the Marauder’s Map, Daily Prophet and Hogwarts school books.  Exclusive to the Celebration, they will be launching their brand new range of Harry Potter stationery, featuring original film graphic artwork. Limited edition prints based on the original prop designs will also be displayed.

 Pottermore from J.K. Rowling

Show your Hogwarts house colors and celebrate your pride with Pottermore from J.K. Rowling. For the millions of fans who have participated in the exclusive Sorting Hat quiz devised by J.K. Rowling herself, here's an amazing chance to take part in Pottermore's Proudest House Contest.  Also, relive the excitement of a year in Pottermore.com and get an exclusive chance to have your say on what is to come.

• Scholastic

Celebrate Harry Potter and share your message about what Harry Potter means to you. Meet award-winning illustrator Kazu Kibuishi, who re-imagined the Harry Potter book covers and will be signing posters on Saturday, January 30, and enter for a chance to win a box set of all seven Harry Potter books.

• Warner Bros. Entertainment

Do you have what it takes to defend yourself against a Dementor or soar above Hogwarts castle on Buckbeak?  Step into some of your favorite scenes with this magical photo experience while surrounded by authentic movie props from the Harry Potter films.

Universal Orlando Celebrates One Million Riders on the Hogwarts Express‏

The new Universal Orlando theme park Diagon Alley has only been open for one month, and already the Harry Potter expansion is celebrating its first milestone. A new and popular attraction that journeys guests from Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, and vice versa, commemorated its one millionth rider. Congratulations to the lucky witches and wizards who will no doubt remember this special day!

Diagon Alley in Focus: Pygmy Puff Adoption

Beloved brothers Fred and George Weasley put themselves on the map in the wizarding world with their joke shop Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. Making its cinematic debut in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, witches and wizards can walk into the building and hoard all the novelty gifts and prank gadgets as imagined by the favorite twins.

When stopping by the three-story shop, and get swept away in the near-replication of the set in the movies, be sure to adopt a Pygmy Puff - creates of the Weasley's own making.

One of them is seen cuddling on their sister Ginny Weasley on her passage to Hogwarts. Upon purchasing your Pygmy Puff make sure to let the cashier know you're officially adopting him / her.

You'll be in for a treat with an official adoption announcement to the rest of the store. Your name and as well as your new furry friend are given a round of applause. Take a bow and enjoy your adoption!

No Official Word on Diagon Alley Grand Opening Ceremony

No word yet on an official Universal Orlando Resort webcast for the grand opening of Diagon Alley.

Local Orlando channels may be airing news segments. In Florida, the sun has been taking a break most days allowing more rain and thunderstorms to fill the sky - even if the temperatures are still high and humid. This may lessen the chances of an opening ceremony.

We may also want to consider that the Media and VIP week Universal Studios Florida held in mid June may have been the official opening ceremony. Cast members including Matthew Lewis, Tom Felton, Bonnie Wright, Evanna Lynch, Robbie Coltrane, Helena Bonham Carter and the Phelps brothers were in attendance to broadcast webcasts on Universal Orlando Resort's page as well as attend a red carpet event. Soft openings in early July have allowed park guests to see the Diagon Alley park and ride the Hogwarts Express before its official opening date.

Tomorrow on July 8th, park guests may just be allowed to cross over the barricade-free area and into the magical land of Diagon Alley - without a grand ceremony for the expansion.

The Making of Diagon Alley with NBC Meredith Viera

Journalist Meredith Vieira hosted a special evening event about the making of Diagon Alley on NBC. Finishing the final touches on the Harry Potter expansion Diagon Alley, the new theme park is set to open July 8th in Orlando, Florida. Viera took us back to the beginning of Diagon Alley from its first stages to the preparation for its public opening in only a few weeks.

From conception to preparation for the grand opening, we went back in time when Hogsmeade first opened at Islands of Adventure in Florida. Stars from the film series in individual clips spoke in awe of how they wished for rides like Gringott's Bank would be a fun attraction.

 Almost two years after the final Deathly Hallows film was finished, members of the primary cast reunited to create scenes for the Harry Potter and Escape from Gringotts; Rupert Grint, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Ralph Fiennes and Helena Bonham Carter were shown creating in new scenes for the multi-dimension thrilling attraction that will take guests through the vaults of Gringotts and face the evil Voldemort as well as Bellatrix Lestrange. The original crew regrouped for filming the eight series to help production of the ride.

The Hogwarts Express was a feature in the special with details showing on the famous and favorite train from the books and films came to life. The idea from Universal Orlando Resort was looking for a way for guests to travel from Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios Florida, and let the magic stay alive. Their mission took them all over the world, especially Europe, to travel on real steam locomotives to get the feel of the transportation. Universal Creative researched to the highest extent what the train in the film was built like and honed in on the resources from the nuts and bolts to the fabric of the seats as authentic as possible.

Pulling from Meredith Viera's previous interview and special with JK Rowling, interview clips with the cast and Rowling were shown talking about the sensational phenomenal of the series when the books were reaching their publishing end and the fifth movie (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) was about to be theatrically released.

Stuart Craig designed all the sets for the Harry Potter films, and he has taken on the important task of working with Universal Orlando Resort to sketch and recreate the world of which the new Diagon Alley world will follow suit. The scope of Kings Cross Station, modern London and Diagon Alley in its scope is meant for guests to feel as if they actually arrived in London; the smallest details were paid attention to as well as the largest.

Two originally created shows will be one of the new attractions to Diagon Alley; puppeteers will perform two stories from the Tales of Beedle the Bard.. Taken from Molly Weasley's mentioning of her favorite wizarding musician, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees comes to life with her own show performing songs never before heard by fans.

Diagon Alley Expansion News and Photos Masterlist

Enjoy a collective masterlist gathered of the Diagon Alley VIP & Media Preview week including the online webcasts, photos, videos, editorials and more! Your one stop post for all things related to the recent Diagon Alley near-opening.

Media Preview Week

• A Journey on the Hogwarts™ Express with James and Oliver Phelps

• Behind the Bricks webcast with Tom Felton, Matthew Lewis and Alan GIlmore

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts - Behind the Scenes

• Harry Potter Film Cast Visits Diagon Alley

• Muggle Net Cast Q& A videos

• Access Hollywood First Look

Recaps From Potter Talk.

• All Aboard: A Journey On The Hogwarts Express with Oliver and James Phelps Recap

• Universal Studios Diagon Alley Red Carpet Event Recap

• Detailed Theme Park Guide to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Orlando

Images & Videos

• USA Today exclusive first look

• Muggle Net Preview Week Round Up of Pictures and Videos

• Snitch Seeker Videos: Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley cast, execs press conference clips

• 17 Hidden Gems Harry Potter Fans Should Look For In Diagon Alley At Universal Orlando by Buzzfeed

• Inside ‘Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts’ as Universal Orlando thrills with exciting Diagon Alley ride, detailed queue by Inside the Magic

• Real Hogwarts Express Debuts Queue and Ride video by Inside the Magic

• Dark Magic fills Knockturn Alley by Inside the Magic

• 200 photos of First Look of Diagon Alley expansion by Orlando Sentinel

• Stunning Visual Tour by Hypable

• Over 100 images of Diagon Alley by Collider

• What's Inside Wizarding World of Harry PotteR by Undercover Tourist

Editorials:

• USA Today Sneak Peek into Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

• The 12 best secrets hidden in Universal Orlando's Wizarding World - Diagon Alley by Zap2It

• CNN Sneak Peek

• Diagon Alley's drink du jour? It's not Butterbeer by Florida Today

• Theme Park Insider Review

• Expectations are High for Second Harry Potter World by Orlando Sentinel

• 7 must-sees at Diagon Alley: A look behind the scenes by Orlando Sentinel

• All The Secrets From Harry Potter’s ‘Diagon Alley’ Preview Event by MTV

• Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley at Universal set to open on July 8 by Wesh

Clips of Jimmy Fallon Tapings In Orlando:

• The Roots rap Harry Potter

• Mom and Pop Quiz

All Aboard: A Journey On The Hogwarts Express with Oliver and James Phelps Recap

Today is Universal Orlando Resort's second day of previewing their latest expansion Diagon Alley. The more we see of this theme park we can confirm that this is much more than an expansion but an entire new land inspired by Harry Potter.

The webcast today featured online by Universal Orlando Resort starred the Phelps brothers James and Oliver giving us an exclusive look at the Hogwarts Express attraction.

James and Oliver Phelps arrived at Hogsmeade Station, apologizing for being a little late as they were enjoying some butterbeers. Together they waited as the station as the Hogwarts Express came into view.

Once inside the compartment of the train, we were treated to a video playback of how the ride will work when guests are officially on board. They noted that know gingers were harmed in the making of the video. Playing on the window behind them as a collection of clips including a passing of Malfoy Manor and The Knight Bus squeezing through Modern London.

Bonnie Wright and Domhnall Gleeson, who play Ginny and Bill Weasley, were seen at the Platform 9 3/4 station waiting for their cinematic siblings to join them. The Phelps brothers were shown intermittently in the compartment talking about the feel of the train as it moves on its track just like the ones in Europe as well as the dynamics of the graphics that play while they were riding.

Eventually the Phelps brothers met with Wright and Gleeson until they came across Matthew Lewis standing in the middle of their set looking through a script. Lewis thought this was his day for a webcast, but he was surely mistaken (it's tomorrow). Lewis joked that they were saving the best for last and that we make sure to catch himself, Tom Felton, and Alan Gilmore on the superior webcast tomorrow. The Phelps brothers thanked us for joining them for the webcast before the broadcast ended.

The webcasts are still available for viewing online as of now - for those who wish to watch!

Live Recap of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon June 19th taping

Jimmy Fallon's taping at the Universal Studios Orlando backlot continues on today's Wednesday night showing. Last night there was not very much Harry Potter-related content on the show besides a quick game of Pros and Cons, in which Fallon made some jokes at Universal's theme park neighbor Disneyworld. Tonight the show welcomes guests actress Rosario Dawson and animal expert Jeff Musial. The Diagon Alley VIP and Media Preview week continued today, with a big announcement of the grand opening date and exclusive Red Carpet webcast with the cast of the Harry Potter films.

Jimmy Fallon sent one of his writers Arthur out into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to quiz the parent's of kids, and their children couldn't help. Some of the questions asked included:
What sport does Harry play?, What is hermione's last name?, What happens when harry says Expecto Patronum? One parent managed to label Voldemort his correct name when he saw a picture of him. One parent called a picture of Ron Weasley as Barry.

During a segment with Fallon answering audience suggestions, Terese from his house band The Roots was called upon to mix Harry Potter into a rap - the video of which once shared online will be very popular!

Universal Orlando Resort Diagon Alley Red Carpet Event Recap

David Karger from Fandango hosted the Diagon Alley Red Carpet welcoming us into the evening event. Cast from the Harry Potter films such as Evanna Lynch, Oliver and James Phelp, Robert Coltrane, Warwick Davis and Helena Bonham Carter were on hand to give interviews.

Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley, was the first celebrity guest on the red carpet to be interviewed. We took a quick glance of her scenes throughout the film franchise. She reminisced briefly about her on-screen and off-screen journey, and when asked if she thinks about Harry and Ginny's marriage she replied, that they are "happily married with three children, having great jobs, and they would make good parents."

Evanna Lynch, who played Luna Lovegood, spoke about how much events like these are family events. When asked about what her character's favorite shop would be at the Diagon Alley Theme Park, Lovegood answered indefinitely with the Magical Menagerie. She mentioned that seeing a replicate version of a Crumple-Horned Snorkack meant a lot to her because Lovegood believes in them so much while her peer Hermione Granger is convinced they don't convince.

Domhnall Glesson, who played Bill Weasley, expressed that being on a set for the last two Harry Potter films as with so many people prepared him for the films he made after Harry Potter, and that coming in at the end of the movies was terrifying but wonderful.  He spoke that his favorite line was "Mad-Eyes Dead" because his father played the character Mad-Eye.

Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom, won an award for biggest screams from the crowd. Lewis was most excited to ride Harry Potter and The Gringotts Bank. A fan asked him what would he name the dragon on top of the Gringott's Bank, and Longbottom answered with Neville - why not?

In a series of clips about the Hogwarts Express it was confirmed that guests will be able to walk through the brick wall just like in the Harry Potter films. A small revealing detail was that we will see characters on the train ride when venturing from Platform 9 3/4 to Hogsmeade, and vice versa, there are different experiences for each journey.

James and Oliver Phelps were excited to see a version of their character's joke shop from the films. The brothers were both in awe about attending the red carpet event among the fans. During one of the last movies they were filming, they admitted that was the first time they heard rumors about the first theme park, and didn't know how they were going to top Hogsmeade when rumors for the second park began.

We were shown a quick clip of Bonnie, Oliver and James trying out the interactive wand experience earlier in the week.

Warwick, who played Professor Flitwick and Griphook, revealed that during the film of Deathly Hallows he felt that the Gringott's vault ride would make for a great rollercoaster, to see the ride in person a few years later is very exciting. Davis expressed that he think the fans are going to just love the theme park experience at Diagon Alley who want to live out what the characters go through in the books and movies, and he complimented Universal Orlando to the attention to the detail.

In the middle of the interview was a clip montage of the Gringott's Bank rollercoaster.

Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, was welcomed next. He thought it was completely strange to turn up at Diago Alley in Florida and see King's Cross Station because he just leaved the train station back in London. Though he loved Diagon Alley, he spoke about Knockturn Alley's sinister and ominous area of the theme park is his favorite; he thought that the theme park version of Borgin and Burkes was very impressive because it was a bit more exciting than the one on the film set which had scaffolding, green screen, etc.

Robbie Coltrane, who played Rubeus Hagrid, joked that he looked like George Clooney with a beard as movie clips of his character played. Coltrane was very impressive of being able to walk into the stores at Diagon Alley and being able to purchase items such as Weasley Wizard Wheezes. When discussing that he was the first choice as Hagrid, Coltrane spoke about how JK Rowling told him that the inspiration for his character was by a friend who was a huge Harley Davidson motorcycle rider who would walk into a pub and talk about how his garden is. A favorite of line was "I shouldn't have said that" and remarked the memory of his character knocking down the brick wall in order to enter Diagon Alley. He urged everyone to come to the theme park.

Helena Bonham Carter, who played Bellatrix Lestrange, was our last and final guest on the red carpet. She remarked how much that she missed the fake teeth she wore as Lestrange, and how she desperately wanted to wear them at the red carpet but she lost them. When filming the video clip for the ride, she said it was incredibly puzzling to create because it seemed like a huge project at the time. One would assume that she wins major cool points for playing Lestrange but she remarked that she really doesn't earn them from her children; her daughter of which just started reading the series.

A brief montage of vacationing at Universal Orlando Resort and experiencing all the attractions, dining, and shopping that the theme parks has to offer was played.

Michael Aiello was welcomed as the last guest and spoke about some details of the theme park. He revealed that there will be street bussers who will play songs throughout the London landscape. Two stage shows will be on at hand in Diagon Alley taken from The Tale of Beedles the Bard; some of the puppets are 16 feet tall. Aiello spoke that JK Rowling was apart of an extensive approval process with Warner Bros Studios. and use her imagination for the creation of the theme park and all of the extended details such as the stage shows.

Footage of the Phelps brothers and Bonnie Wright earlier visit to the theme park and their exploration was shown. The cast was shown playing around in Weasley Wizard Wheezes, riding the Hogwarts Express, eating at the Leaky Cauldron, and admiring the spectacular attentive details of the theme park. Following the package, the evening was concluded by the host. Other celebrity guests that attended the Diagon Alley Preview included musician Joey Fatone and director Tim Burton.

"Fans are going to be absolutely blown away." - James Phelps

A Knight Bus conductor entered the stage and was talking to the crowd. He convinced the audience in person that there was a fire breathing dragon behind the walls of Diagon Alley, and soon fire breathed out from behind in the theme park. Several executives from Universal Orlando and Warner Bros Studios arrived on stage to kick off the preview event for the media guests attending the red carpet and to enter the theme park for the first time ever. The cast was welcomed next to the stage one by one. Robbie Coltrane welcomed everyone into Diagon Alley just as Hagrid did, tapping a cane into a wall, and the guests were shown walking into Diagon Alley. Fireworks shooting off were shown as the cast stood together for promotional photographs before entering the theme park. July 8th cannot come soon enough. Let the magic begin!

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Theme Park Guide to Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando Resort

July 8th has been officially announced as the grand opening date for Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Harry Potter fans and guests will finally get to experience the truly magical and exciting new expansion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Coming to life from J.K. Rowling's books and the films, every detail has been given to deliver a straight-out-of-the-phenomenon experience for tourists and Florida residents to immerse themselves into the wizarding world. With the opening date of the second theme park in Florida looming closer, Potter Talk has put together a guide of attractions you can expect to find at Diagon Alley Universal  Orlando Resort.

London

Admire the skyline of several famous locations within London and the Harry Potter world. A magical stroll over to the Diagon Alley theme park and you'll admire the sights of No. 12 Grimmuald Place, King’s Cross Station, Charing Cross Road, Leicester Square Station, and Wyndham’s Theatre. Be sure to keep on the look-out for a very grouchy house elf watching over you. Interact with the Knight Bus conductor and watch his rapport with the shrunken head hanging from the rear-view mirror.

Diagon Alley

Cross the threshold over to one of the most memorable locations in literary and film history - the shopping alley in which witches and wizards eat at Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream stand, share in magical jokes at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, "get fitted" for robes at Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions and so much more.

Here is a quick rundown of several stores where you can certainly expect to fill up your trunks with magical goodies for your trip to Hogwarts!

• Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, a three-story shop owned by Fred and George Weasley featuring novelty items and toys including: 

• Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, where all of the official wizarding gear you may need for your Hogwarts schooling can be found including school uniform ties, scarves and jumpers, to authentic wizard’s robes and character costumes

• Magical Menagerie, featuring a collection of plush animals such as owls and Hippogriffs

• Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, grab your wizarding essentials such as telescopes, binoculars,  compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses

• Quality Quidditch Supplies, offering an assortment of Quidditch apparel and equipment including sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, and Quaffles

• Scribbulus, featuring authentic writing tools and products such as feather quills, ink and inkwells, bookmarks, journals, parchment paper, seals, stationery sets and postcards

Gringotts Money Exchange
Remember muggle money has very little value in the muggle world. Stop by the Gringotts Money Exchange kiosk to interact with a bank goblin and exchange your Muggle currency for Wizarding Bank Notes. These notes can be used within both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade (and throughout all of Universal Orlando's theme parks) to purchase snacks and items from shops.

Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC
Perhaps the wizarding world's premier wand shop. Visitors of Diagon Alley can step into the famous shop and experience firsthand "the wand choosing the wizard". This interactive attraction resembles one of the most iconic scenes from the Harry Potter books and films. This is also available at Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Gringotts Bank

After you've exchanged some muggle money for Wizarding Bank Notes, surely you'll want to get your own vault! Go deep within the heart of Gringott's Bank in a groundbreaking new multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Riders will be in the middle of an incredible quest navigating their way through the dangers of Gringotts. Keep an eye out for some surprising help from a few friends including Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley.

Restaurants

When you're done shopping and take a pause to enjoy a meal at The Leaky Cauldron and Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour

The Leaky Cauldron is known as the location where Hagrid first took Harry through on his journey to Diagon Alley. Sit down with family and other wizarding citizens to enjoy a cold mug of Butterbeer, fish and chips, and bangers and mash.

Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour
Cool off with a few scoops in this colorful and bold snack parlor. Enjoy breakfast items and pastries as well as soft served ice cream and cold drink refreshments.

There can be no light magic without dark, and so lurking in the corner of Diagon Alley is the grim Knockturn Alley - which features Borgin and Burkes, a shop that specializes in the Dark Arts and will offer a variety of sinister objects such as  Death Eater and skulls

Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts

Stop by Carkitt Market, a covered, outdoor shopping area inspired by London’s famous markets to attend the wizarding theater.

Watching a new stage show from The Tales of Beedle the Bard - a famous 15th-century wizarding fairytale. A troupe of four will perform “The Fountain of Fair Fortune”, in which three witches and a knight meet in their attempt to reach the Fountain in an enchanted garden, and “The Tale of the Three Brothers” about a trio of brothers who come face to face with Death (inspired from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1.

Listen to the Singing Sorceress:  Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. Known from the books as Molly Weasley's favorite singer, listen to the ever-popular singing sensation. She will perform never-before-heard songs such as “A Cauldron Full Of Hot, Strong Love,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart” and “You Charmed The Heart Right Out Of Me”.

Board The Hogwarts Express

Walk through the magical London's King's Cross Station Platform to Platform 9 3/4. Take a ride on the beloved Hogwarts Express between Diagon Alley (located in Universal Studios Florida) and Hogsmeade Station (Located at Universal's Islands of Adventure). The adventurous travel will be filled with views of London and British Countryside - a few surprises from some of your favorite characters might join you along the way. Please note: Park to Park admission is required. More details at the official website pricing details can be viewed here.

(photo source )

Interactive Wand Experience

Cast a spell and watch your wizarding powers unfold at both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Purchase a special wand from Universal Orlando Resort and watch your step for magical bronze emblems around the theme park. Stand on specially marked locations, follow the incantation on the place marker, and be amazed as you summon true magic!

Universal Orlando Resort Announces WWOHP Diagon Alley Opening Date

Harry Potter fans, we do not have be kept waiting any longer. In a Breaking News Tweet this morning Universal Orlando Resort revealed the opening date for Diagon Alley. You Guessed it: July 8th, 2014.

Today marks the fourth birthday of the grand opening for Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure. The grand occasion marked the reunion of several Harry Potter stars including Daniel Radcliffe. An estimation of 2 million guests waited to get inside the theme park on opening date wrapping around the outside perimeter of the surrounding City Walk complex.

The announcement of this opening date arrived as a special birthday present for Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. Today is its fourth anniversary since opening. There is no doubt that July 8th Diagon Alley will surely reach the same level of the original opening date festivities and excitement.

Live Recap The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon June 17th Orlando Taping

Jimmy Fallon's day taping at the Universal Orlando Resort backlot continues on today's Tuesday night showing. Last night Fallon and host Higgins were shown visiting Ollivander's Wand Shop and "the wand chose them" as it goes in Harry Potter lore.

The late night host has exclaimed how much he loves the Orlando crowd and appreciated their passionate energy for his tapings; fans have suggested that he makes this trip an annual event. Tonight's episode guests will feature comedian Kevin Hart and musician Jimmy Buffet.

During his opening monologue Fallon joked around about observing his favorite characters walking around the theme park like The Simpsons, Scooby-Doo, and a sunken teenager complaining about the new Harry Potter world not being open yet. I think all of us Harry Potter fan sympathize with this!

The show continued on with a Pros and Cons segment of vacationing in Florida and at Universal Studios. One set was Harry Potter related: “Pro: The New Harry Potter theme park cost $256 million dollars to build. Con: That’s the same price of admission for one day at Disneyworld.”

It's interesting to note during this section that Fallon's co-host Steve Higgins complained how there is only one ride open at Diagon Alley right now (meaning the Hogwarts express). We take this to assume that the Gringott's is not up and running, even if it is Media and VIP Preview Week.

During the second half of Fallon's interview with comedian Kevin Hart, a previously recorded clip of both host and guest riding Universal's superspeedy supersized musical rollercoaster Rip Ride Rock It - this is not a Harry Potter related attraction. Hart and Fallon struggled to get on the ride calmly - to say the least. Hart screamed from the moment he was locked into the harness, and the wind velocity was such a rush, the audio knocked out their screams of terror. One bug slammed into Fallon's face, which further freaked them out. At the end of the ride, Fallon and Hart rode again.

Live Recap The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon June 16th Orlando Taping

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon took the show on the road to Orlando, Florida. Getting an exclusive sneak peak into Diagon Alley during its media and VIP preview week, fans who were lucky to score tickets for the tapings enjoyed Fallon live in person.

The show opened with Jimmy Fallon and his co-host Steve Higgins entering Diagon Alley. There was a quick pan of Gringott's Bank. Higgins tried to use the Firebolt broom but slammed into a building. Higgins let Fallon go ahead with his journey. Fallon boarded the Hogwarts Express to get to the Tonight Show taping. We saw the streamrolling train in action departing from King's Cross Station. Upon reaching its destination, Fallon hopped off the train and was handfived by students dressed in robes. Running down a red carpet Fallon met all kinds of popular Universal characters including the Despicable Me minions and The Simpsons. Eventually he reached Studio 20 located on the Universal Studios Florida backlot.

Following the monologue Fallon exclaimed the amazing lands that Universal Orlando Resort has to offer. He declared that he has "seen the future of theme parks and it is Diagon Alley".

After a commercial break Fallon introduced a clip where he and Higgins had traveled to Ollivander's Wand Shop to get an authentic Harry Potter wand. The two of them exchanged mature wand jokes such as the size of the wand for Fallon being very small. Their wands eventually chose the wizards after Fallon made a vase of flowers wilt, and Higgins made them bloom again. Upon leaving the famous theme from The Breakfast Club "Don't You Forget About Me" played as Fallon and Higgins emotionally left Ollivanders with wands in hand.

The rest of the evening taping included an edited rap of NBC News Anchor rapping Sir Mix A Lot's Baby Got Back, and interviews with the in studio guests Keenen Ivory Wayans and musical guest Jennifer Lopez.

Diagon Alley Webcast Preview Schedule Released

Join in on the exclusive fun with Universal Orlando's Preview week for their newest expansion themed land Diagon Alley. This week marks a special occasion for media and VIP guests who are attending Preview Week at Universal Orlando.

Recently released via newsletter by the theme park is an amazing exclusive schedule for fans to attend three fun live webcasts and get the inner scoop on Diagon Alley.

Live Webcast #1
WEDNESDAY JUNE 18, 8PM–9PM EST RSVP on Facebook
The Diagon Alley Red Carpet Event (hosted by E!)

Enjoy interviews with some of your favorite Harry Potter film stars as they arrive for the exclusive red carpet preview event for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Webcast #2
THURSDAY JUNE 19, 12PM-12:15PM EST RSVP on Facebook
All Aboard: A Journey on the Hogwarts Express with Oliver and James Phelps

Join James and Oliver Phelps (Fred and George Weasley in the Harry Potter films) as they take you on a journey aboard the Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade station to King’s Cross Station.

Live Webcast #3
FRIDAY JUNE 20, 12PM-12:30PM EST RSVP on Facebook
Behind the Bricks: A Tour of Diagon Alley with Tom Felton and Matthew Lewis

Get a virtual tour of some of the most iconic places within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley with your hosts, Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy), Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom) and Alan Gilmore (Art Director for the Harry Potter films and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter).

Kreacher Will Be Watching at Diagon Alley

Summer 2014 has been an exciting venture watching details emerge for the Diagon Alley expansion at Universal Orlando Resort. There are plenty of amazing attractions awaiting to be enjoyed at the theme park (we listed ten here we're looking forward to!).

Keep on the lookout when walking along the modern London landscape at No. 12 Grimmauld Place.

The very loyal house else Kreacher will be on watch at one of the windows.

Check out this wonderful Youtube video by All Around Orlando.

New Details Revealed about Universal Orlando's Diagon Alley

One of the most anticipated attractions at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida is the Gringott's Bank. Owned by the merciless and grouch goblins who are in charge of all wizard's vaults, the bank will be a rollercoaster adventure in the new expansion.

Courtesy of WFTV news in Orlando we have some new exciting details to reveal about the ride:

The centerpiece of the new Harry Potter-themed area at Universal Orlando Resort will take visitors into Gringotts Bank to help retrieve a magical object and re-create a scene from the wildly popular book and movie series. 

Universal executives announced Tuesday that the ride will be called "Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts." 

The ride and the themed area will open in the summer. Among the features of the new ride: a 60-foot dragon atop Gringotts Wizarding Bank, a labyrinth of Gringotts vaults and a marble hall with goblins. 

"Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts will change the way you think about theme park attractions," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "We’ve created an entirely new type of ride that propels guests into the story like never before, and guests will remember it long after their visit to Diagon Alley." 

The ride will use 360-degree themed sets, digital high-definition animation, 3-D projection systems and live special effects. The new themed area will be located at the Universal Studios park.

Courtesy of Orlando Sentinel. A video accompanying this information can be found at the link.

The outside of the attraction will be topped by a 60-foot-tall, fire-breathing dragon figure.

Inside, the attraction's queue will include a stretch in the marble lobby of Gringotts. Guests, according to the story, will be there to open an account at the bank. Their journey will go many miles below London toward the institution's vaults, Coup said. Riders will encounter Death Eater Bellatrix Lestrange and Lord Voldemort.

"The guests will find themselves transported smack in the middle of the action when Ron, Harry and Hermoine break into the bank," Coup said.

The original Potter land, now called Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade, set a high standard, said Dennis Spiegel, president of the International Theme Park Services trade group.[...]

In the Potterverse, Gringotts is a goblin-owned bank for wizards. It was portrayed in rollicking fashion in the films, which have grossed more than $7.7 billion at the box office worldwide. Fans have clamored for a Gringotts ride for years, Coup said.

"It's definitely something that we knew that everybody wanted," he said. "The second we started sketching ideas it was definitely going to be Diagon Alley and Gringotts Bank."