WASHINGTON — Harry Potter fans, get your cloaks and wands ready — a town in Virginia is hosting a weekend-long Harry Potter-themed festival in September.
Staunton, Virginia, will flip its quaint, historic downtown to reflect Hogsmeade village for its annual Queen City Potter Party from Sept. 22 to Sept. 24. Businesses will change their decor, soundtrack and merchandise to elicit a magical feel.
Festival organizer Sarah Lynch said participants will be able to experiment with potions, drink some butterbeer and go Horcrux hunting. There will also be plenty of photo and selfie opportunities with dragons, a large basilisk and a restored train.
While there is no entry fee, some activities and crafts will involve a fee.
Lynch said around 30 businesses were involved last year and around 5,000 people attended. This year, Lynch expects to have more than 80 businesses involved and 5,000 to 10,000 attendees.
“We aspire to have something for everyone for the entire weekend,” Lynch said.
Staunton, Virginia, is about three hours away from D.C.
