Tips For Hosting A Harry Potter Screening Party
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It's the moment that many Potter fans have been waiting for since November of 2010: the release of Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Though the movie debuts in theaters on Friday, July 15th, excitement around the final installment has been building for weeks.
To get you ready to watch the movie on the silver screen this weekend, get together with friends for a screening party. Brush up on your knowledge of Harry, Hermione, and Ron's past adventures at Hogwarts while enjoying your favorite foods straight from the streets of Hogsmeade. With our tips below, it's just the kind of gathering you want to host to build excitement before waiting in line for tickets for that 12:01 a.m. screening Friday morning. (Wondering where it's playing in your town? Check it out here).
Attire:
When inviting guests, ask them to adhere to the dress code of Hogwarts — donning capes and wizard hats! Thick, black-rimmed glasses and a scar on the forehead like Harry are optional — as is arriving with your owl or broomstick.
Menu:
As any Potter fan knows, serving a delectable array of sweets that one might find roaming the halls of Hogwarts and the streets of Hogsmeade is a must — these are sure to satisfy. To round out the meal, serve your guests a spread of classic British foods like roast beef and Yorkshire puddings or meat pies and wash it all down with lots of butterbeer. Looking for something more interactive? Be inspired by this kids' party idea and set up a create-your-own potions bar. Set out juices and sparkling water (or if you're entertaining an adult crowd, include rum, vodka, and sparkling wine) then let everyone make their own custom concoction to enjoy.
Setting the Scene:
Keep the décor simple and let the costumes, food, and movie really set the scene. If you're having friends over for dinner, be inspired by the great hall of Hogwarts (known as Christ Church in real life) when setting the table. There is no need for no placemats or fancy linens on the table, but re-create the feeling of soaring ceilings by hanging string lights and then place a chocolate frog at each place for a fun touch. Set out trivia cards (check out Scholastic's online questions here for inspiration) for guests to quiz each other while enjoying their choice of potions and have your favorite Potter movies playing in the background. Then be sure to hand out each guest their own bag of Bertie Bott's beans to snack on at the theater.
Do you have a favorite Harry Potter-themed activity you like to play? Share it with us below!