Journey Back to Hogwarts: A Quarter-Century of Magic Celebrated Worldwide
Unveiling the Global Phenomenon: The 'Back to Hogwarts' Initiative
Warner Bros. Discovery has announced a comprehensive "Back to Hogwarts" initiative for 2026, marking a quarter-century since the premiere of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." This global program is designed to immerse fans in the wizarding world through a special week-long theatrical re-release, interactive fan events across various regions, and exclusive sneak peeks of the forthcoming HBO Original series.
The Heart of the Celebration: September 1st and Cinematic Returns
Central to these festivities is September 1st, a date steeped in tradition for Harry Potter enthusiasts, signifying the students' annual return to Hogwarts. Warner Bros. Discovery has embraced this tradition, transforming it into an annual global gathering that connects fans through cinema, live experiences, online platforms, retail partnerships, and home entertainment. As part of this anniversary, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone"—known internationally as "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone"—will return to theaters for a week, featuring 12 minutes of never-before-seen behind-the-scenes content. Additionally, all eight Harry Potter films will be screened in cinemas worldwide from August 27th to September 3rd.
Enchanting Fan Experiences Across Continents
London will host the inaugural HBO Max "Back to Hogwarts" celebration on September 1st, building excitement for the HBO Original series' Christmas debut. This one-day event will offer interactive experiences and giveaways inspired by the new series, with further details on location and ticketing to be revealed soon. Fans are advised that no special event will occur at King's Cross Station, encouraging them to avoid travel there specifically for the occasion. Beyond London, vibrant celebrations are scheduled in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, China, Australia, and Japan. Highlights include a massive wand-waving lesson in the Orangerie Gardens of Paris's Château de Versailles, choreographed by Paul Harris; a celebratory film screening in Venice; fan gatherings in Madrid and Sydney; an event in Berlin; and anniversary activations in China featuring the "Owl Messenger" installation.
Theme Parks Join the Magic: Immersive Wizarding World Adventures
From August 1st to September 1st, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will host special theme park activities, including unique anniversary experiences and the reintroduction of the "Hogwarts Always" projection show at Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. Universal Studios Japan will grant select guests after-hours access to its Wizarding World area on September 1st. Meanwhile, Universal Beijing Resort will unveil its own "Hogwarts Always" projection show alongside a "Gathering Night" event on August 28th.
Studio Tours and Retail Exclusives: Deepening the Fan Connection
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will commemorate the day with an 11 a.m. announcement broadcast, repeated every 30 minutes at Platform 9¾. The tour is also running a competition to win a personalized Hogwarts trunk autographed by cast members Bonnie Wright, Mark Williams, James and Oliver Phelps, plus two tickets for a September 1st visit. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter will host its own countdown event and photo opportunities. In North America, the Harry Potter Shops in New York and Chicago will feature 11 a.m. countdowns and introduce a new "Back to Hogwarts" merchandise collection.
Digital Enchantments: Mobile Games Join the Anniversary Fun
Mobile gaming platforms are also participating in the celebrations. "Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery" will introduce new adventures and rewards, while "Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells" will host its own countdown events, allowing digital fans to partake in the anniversary excitement.
The Grand Finale: A Franchise-Wide Showcase
The entire program will culminate in the annual "Back to Hogwarts Showcase," streaming live on September 1st via the official Harry Potter YouTube and TikTok channels, featuring major announcements from across the entire franchise.