Harry Potter fans around the world invited to go back to Hogwarts
Back to Hogwarts returns for 2026 with a global celebration bringing fans together in cinemas, at live events, online, in stores and at home.
Every year on 1st September, fans around the world mark the day students return to Hogwarts. What began as a moment from the stories has become a global tradition celebrating the magic, friendships and memories that continue to unite generations.
This year's celebrations are especially meaningful as fans commemorate 25 years since Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone first brought the wizarding world to the big screen, and excitement builds for the upcoming HBO Original series.
To celebrate the 25th Anniversary, fans are invited to return to Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in theatres, enhanced with 12 minutes of never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage debuting on the big screen.
For a limited time, from 27th Aug through 3rd Sept, all eight Harry Potter films will be available in theatres worldwide, offering audiences a chance to relive the full cinematic journey. Tickets go on sale 31st July and are expected to vanish faster than a Golden Snitch - Fans are encouraged to check local listings for showtimes and availability.
Ahead of the highly anticipated debut of the HBO Original series Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone this Christmas, HBO Max will lead a first-of-its-kind Back to Hogwarts celebration in London on 1st Sept. A one-day fan celebration inspired by the new series, featuring interactive fan moments and exclusive giveaways, the event will serve as an epic element of the wider global celebration across the Harry Potter franchise, which this year pays homage to the 25th Anniversary of the first Harry Potter film. Location and ticketing details will be announced soon.
Fans are reminded that there will be no official event, countdown or announcement at King's Cross Station on 1st Sept, and are advised not to travel there.
Back to Hogwarts brings together every corner of the Harry Potter universe - from theatrical releases and Studio Tours to immersive experiences, retail, gaming, digital content and global partners – giving fans around the world countless ways to celebrate.
New for 2026, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will mark Back to Hogwarts with a special 11:00am announcement broadcast throughout the Tour. Following the opening announcement, additional broadcasts will take place every 30 minutes at Platform 9¾ throughout the day. Guests can enjoy animatronic Hagrid demonstrations, exclusive photo opportunities, themed food and drink, and complimentary Hogwarts Train Tickets included in Summer Feature Activity Passports. Fans can also test their knowledge with a digital Back to Hogwarts quiz in the Butterbeer Café.
Fans can also enter an exclusive Back to Hogwarts competition for the chance to win a truly magical prize - a personalised Hogwarts trunk signed by Bonnie Wright, Mark Williams, James and Oliver Phelps, plus two tickets to visit the Studio Tour on 1st Sept. One runner-up will receive a bundle of merchandise from the brand-new Harry Potter Shop Back to Hogwarts collection.
Harry Potter mobile games are joining the Back to Hogwarts celebrations with Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery offering new adventures, magical rewards, fan celebrations, and limited-time in-game events, and Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells counting down to the big day with fun in-game events, rewards, and social experiences.
Fans looking to celebrate their Hogwarts house pride can also enjoy special Back to Hogwarts collections, commemorative products and themed celebrations from beloved brands including LEGO Harry Potter, The Noble Collection, Rubies, Colgate, Hallmark and more.
The magic culminates with the annual Back to Hogwarts Showcase, featuring special surprises and unmissable announcements from across the Harry Potter universe. Watch live on 1st Sept from the official Harry Potter YouTube and TikTok.
As the Hogwarts Express prepares to depart once more, witches, wizards and Muggles around the world are invited to join the celebration. Visit the website to get Sorted, join the Harry Potter Fan Club, follow @harrypotter and #BackToHogwarts, and discover how you can be part of the most magical day of the year.