When Universal invited me to preview the new “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” I knew I had to take the biggest Harry Potter fan I know, my husband! We made it a date night, which turned out to be so much fun! We prepared to watch the show by drinking butterbeer and walking around the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Since most people were preparing to see the show, we took advantage and experienced “Ollivander, Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC” where you can experience some wand magic with a wizard in a dark library.
Outside of the library, there is a large selection of wands available for purchase. You can use these wands to cast your own spells throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at 15 locations! I knew then and there, that I had to come back to bring my boys!
We went to the stage and shortly, the loud crowds became quiet as the bells began to ring and the castle darkened. The lights dimmed and the air was filled with fog and chilling whispers! Suddenly the castle came alive with majestic projections of the darkest creatures and villains! The music and special effects made the experience seem as if the movie was coming to life in front of your eyes and onto your skin!
As darkness fell on Hogwarts castle, a narrator spoke to us and asked us to summon our inner strength and bravery in the face of the “all-consuming Dark Arts.” Illuminating the darker side of the Wizarding World, this extraordinary show projected shadows and images of large spiders, skulls, and sinister creatures crawling all over the castle as the powerful Patronus spell was being cast. The spell conjured Lord Voldemort along with fire, explosions and more! In the end, the castle and sky filled with beautiful sparkling lights and an image appeared! You must go and see it for yourself, as photos and videos can’t give you the full immersive experience. You don’t have to be a Harry Potter fan or even know the movie to enjoy it. Obviously, it’s a bonus, but definitely not necessary to enjoy this majestic experience.
We all clapped and cheered, and I had goosebumps on my arms! The show lasted about 9 minutes and there are several show times. The view is best from further back, so you can see the whole thing. Like most moms, the whole time I was thinking how my kids would love this and I couldn’t wait to bring them!
After the show, we quickly went to experience “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” attraction. There were no lines, although I had to pause several times to view beautiful exhibits as we walked through the towering castle gates and made our way down the familiar passageways and
corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The ride completely exceeded my expectations! They took us on an unforgettable adventure and made us feel as if we were taking flying lessons, soaring above the castle grounds, joined by Harry Potter and his friends. We came face-to-face with magical creatures, which had me screaming and laughing the entire time!
I was so glad that we decided to experience the ride, because it would be too scary for my 6-year-old, but it was the perfect way to end our date night at Universal Studios. I love having these types of adventures with my husband, that take me back to our girlfriend/boyfriend days. Of course, we could not end our night completely. We had a late romantic dinner at CityWalk before heading back to pick up the kids.
The show illuminates Hogwarts Castle nightly through April 28, and from May 25-27.
For more information, visit https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/
With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood you can now take advantage of California Neighbor Pass inviting guests to enjoy over 175 select days of fun for $149.
The California Neighbor Pass is a must-have for anyone looking to enjoy limitless entertainment exclusive to Universal Studios Hollywood, including the all-new “Dark Arts at Hogwarts™ Castle” at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” the highly-anticipated “Jurassic World—The Ride” opening this summer, as well as the theme park’s many exciting thrill rides and attractions.
More information about the California Neighbor Pass and other Annual Pass options, are available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/tickets
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That sounds so cool! Can’t wait to go!