New York City fans of J.K. Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter novels can experience the holiday season in a life-sized snow globe with a hot cup of Butterbeer in hand at Manhattan’s flagship store in the iconic Flatiron Building.
Then they can journey through a magical tour of movie props while being quizzed with movie-themed trivia questions.
The store’s array of festive offerings are all designed to bring the spirit of the season to life for wizards, witches, and even Muggles.
From toys to rare collectibles, Harry Potter New York houses a large collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products. And this is the first time Hot Butterbeer is available.
In addition, décor and window dressings inspired by this year’s Snow Globe theme are sure to draw visitors in.
In addition to shopping the store’s seasonal and exclusive merchandise while sipping on Hot Butterbeer, fans can snap photos in the life-size snow globe or challenge themselves to a Tree Trail scavenger hunt with the chance to win a limited-edition collectible pin and take part in a charitable sock donation.
“The holidays have always been synonymous with Harry Potter, so we’re delighted to … welcome fans in New York to experience the festive magic a new way this year,” said Jack Threlfall, director of operations, U.S. East Coast Retail, in a press announcement detailing the holiday plans. “From our new Hot Butterbeer and fun photo areas to the tree trail scavenger hunts and thoughtful touches throughout the store, there is a unique way for any visitor to celebrate the season and wizarding world.”
Harry Potter Store NYC
What to expect
Since Nov. 12, fans have been enjoying the Hot Butterbeer.
And the flagship store in Manhattan is also offering limited-edition holiday treats, including authentic English Mince Pies, Harry & Ron Sweater Cookies, Peppermint Chocolate Frog Mousse and Pumpkin Pastries.
Merchandise
There is a new collection of limited-edition merchandise — whether you know a fan or plan to keep items for yourself.
The shelves are stocked with Hedwig-inspired hoodies, replicas of Mrs. Weasley’s iconic Christmas jumpers, Hogsmeade Christmas mini snow globes, and “Hogwarts in the Snow” mugs, among other magical offerings.
Interactive wizarding fun
An interactive photo wall, inspired by this year’s snow globe theme, brings visitors inside the whimsical snow globe
And, upon arrival at the store, visitors can pick up a map to guide them through a trail of trees, each decorated with ornaments corresponding to different themed areas of the shop.
Those completing the full trail and cracking the secret code will receive a special “Holidays at Hogwarts” collectible pin.
Harry Potter Store
Tours, movie props
Fans can enjoy complimentary 20-minute tours highlighting the store’s seasonal décor and most enchanting areas — which include real props from the movies.
Guides will also ask fans holiday-themed trivia questions for an interactive experience. Tours will run every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday until Dec. 24, starting every hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning at the Butterbeer Bar. Tours are first-come, first-served and limited to 10 people per tour.
Guests can also take part in a broomstick-flying adventure, posing for a photo as they soar high above a snowy Hogwarts scene. Ornament frames will be available for purchase.
Sock donation
In the spirit of giving, fans are invited to join Dobby the House-Elf in spreading warmth and kindness this season through socks.
Harry Potter Shops are partnering with local charities to collect donations for those in need: Cradles to Crayons in Chicago and Knock Knock Give a Sock in New York, for the second year.
Visitors may bring a new pair of socks to any register for an employee to add to the collection bin. They must be in pairs and new, but they do not need to be purchased at Harry Potter shops.
Hours, location
The Manhattan store is located in the Flatiron Building on 22nd Street, between Fifth Avenue and Broadway.
It is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.
Read the original article on silive.com.