May 2nd

International Harry Potter Day - May 2, 2025

Updated on Nov 29, 2023 by Jefferson Huera

Each year on May 2nd, the world comes together to celebrate International Harry Potter Day in honor of the iconic tales penned by renowned author J.K. Rowling. This is not just an ordinary day but a magical occasion where people of all ages across the world revisit their love for the captivating narratives of witches, wizards, mythical creatures, and enchanting magic.

On this day, we express our appreciation for the captivating imagination of Rowling, which brought to life unforgettable characters and intriguing plots that have left an indelible mark on literature. The celebration ranges from marathon reading sessions, watching the movies back-to-back, dressing up as favorite characters, to participating in a game of Quidditch.

History of International Harry Potter Day

May 2nd of each year marks a special occasion for Harry Potter fans worldwide. Known as International Harry Potter Day or the Battle of Hogwarts Anniversary, it’s a day for enthusiasts to celebrate the finale of the globally cherished Harry Potter series, where Harry Potter and his comrades vanquish the infamous Dark wizard, Lord Voldemort.

International Harry Potter Day was inspired by the narrative of the final installment in the series, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” published in 2007. The Battle of Hogwarts, depicted in the story, unfolds on May 2, 1998. A few years post-publication, fervent fans began honoring this day as a dedication to their beloved characters and their ultimate triumph.

British author J.K. Rowling is known to partake in the commemoration by paying homage to the characters who perished in the series each year on May 2nd. Her custom of expressing regret for the demise of one character annually on this day began in 2015, starting with Fred Weasley, followed by others like Remus Lupin and Severus Snape.

Over the years, this day has garnered considerable attention, thanks to the incredible worldwide appreciation of the Harry Potter franchise. Fans indulge in various activities, such as revisiting the books or films, sharing fan artwork, and throwing Harry Potter-themed gatherings. Some enthusiasts seize the opportunity to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, or embark on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, which offers an insight into the making of Harry Potter.

International Harry Potter Day Timeline

1997

Release of the first Harry Potter book

J.K. Rowling's first Harry Potter book, 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's (or Sorcerer's) Stone', was officially published and released.

2001

Release of the first Harry Potter film

The first movie adaptation of the book series, 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's (or Sorcerer's) Stone', was released in cinemas.

2007

Final Harry Potter Book Released

J.K. Rowling released the seventh and final book of the series, 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows'.

2011

Release of the Final Harry Potter Film

The eighth and final film adaptation, 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2', was released

2021

Current International Harry Potter Day

It serves as a day for fans to recognize and appreciate the magical world that J.K. Rowling created.

Ideas to Celebrate International Harry Potter Day

Potterhead Book Club

Start a Harry Potter book club. Choose a book from the series to read and discuss. You can take an in-depth look into the characters, plot, themes, and iconic quotes.

Harry Potter Quiz Night

Organize a trivia night based on the Harry Potter series. You can test your knowledge of Hogwarts, spells, characters, and all things wizarding world related. Include prizes for the winner!

Enchanted Art Session

Attend or host a Harry Potter-themed art session where you can paint or draw your favorite scenes or characters from the books and movies.

Magical Letter Writing

Add a little magic to your correspondence by writing letters as if you were a student at Hogwarts. Use aged parchment and a 'quill' to make it feel authentically magical.

Visit to Local Wizarding Shop

If available in your city, pay a visit to a local shop that sells Harry Potter merchandise. Treat yourself or a fellow Potterhead with a magical souvenir.

10 Interesting Facts About Harry Potter

Inspiration for Snape's Name

The name 'Snape' comes from a small village in England that J.K. Rowling once visited.

The Invisibility Cloak

In the books, Harry's invisibility cloak is supposedly made from the hair of a mythical creature called a 'Demiguise'. However, the movie props were actually made out of a special velvet material and painted green.

Real Chocolate Frogs

The 'Chocolate Frogs' in Harry Potter are not purely fictional. They can be purchased at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Florida, complete with a collectable card just like in the movies.

Baby Voldemort

In the movie 'Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2', a baby was used to portray Voldemort in the scene where Harry sees Voldemort’s soul in King’s Cross.

Payment in Quidditch

The professional Quidditch players in the Harry Potter universe get paid in Galleons. One Galleon is equal to approximately 5 British pounds.

Inspiration for Dementors

J.K. Rowling has stated that the inspiration for Dementors came from her struggle with depression before the Harry Potter fame.

Platform 9 3/4

The magical platform is at King's Cross Station in London, where a trolley disappearing into a wall marks the spot.

Voldemort's Boggart

According to J.K. Rowling, Voldemort's Boggart - a creature that transforms into a person's worst fear - would be his own corpse, implying that his biggest fear was death.