Celebrating 25 Magical Years of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
The enchanting world of Harry Potter is set to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, debuting in theaters on November 16, 2001. Since its release, the film has not only captured the hearts of audiences globally but has also paved the way for a multimedia franchise that has grossed an astounding $7.7 billion worldwide. As fans gear up for this significant anniversary in 2026, Warner Bros. Discovery has announced an array of exciting plans that promise to bring the magic back to life.
As part of the celebrations, Warner Bros. will host a series of fan-centric events, special screenings, and merchandise offerings that will span across various global locations. One of the highlights will be the 'Butterbeer Season', which will run from March to May, featuring mobile Butterbeer trucks that will serve limited-edition drinks and exclusive merchandise in cities around the world. This initiative allows fans to indulge in one of the most iconic drinks from the wizarding world while reuniting with fellow enthusiasts.
The birthday of the Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter, on July 31st, will also be marked by themed events and activities at official Harry Potter locations globally. This will bring families and fans together for a summer filled with magic, engaging events, and celebrating the much-loved universe.
Returning this year will be the highly anticipated 'Back to Hogwarts' event, slated for August to September. This fan-favorite celebration promises to unite the Harry Potter community like never before, featuring an array of activities, nostalgic experiences, and opportunities to interact with other fans.
In an exciting twist, Warner Bros. will also re-release Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in theaters, offering fans a special treat: an additional ten minutes of never-before-seen behind-the-scenes content. This retrospective experience will take place across North American, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC screens between August 27 and September 3, making it a must-see for all Potterheads.
Moreover, for those looking to literally step into the magical experience, Warner Bros. will facilitate an immersive shared-reality experience based on the beloved series at Cosm locations in Los Angeles and Dallas. Starting on March 4, 2026, fans can enjoy this one-of-a-kind escape into the enchanting world of Harry Potter, with more locations planned to open later in the year.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, fans can expect limited-edition merchandise featuring a specially designed 25th-anniversary logo, inspired by the iconic Patronus. Renowned brands such as Spin Master, LUG, and Hallmark, among others, will unveil collections dedicated to this anniversary. Notably, LEGO will commemorate with new sets that encapsulate key characters, moments, and locations from the film series, including the stunning 25th Anniversary Collector's Edition set.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London will introduce a summer attraction celebrating the film, showcasing magical items and providing insights into the film's production that fans have long cherished. From May 7 to September 7, the tour will highlight the creation of magical props and decorations, ensuring a mesmerizing experience for visitors.
Fans worldwide will have numerous opportunities to participate in surprise activities, including unique displays and installations, and engaging moments during the year. From celebrations at Universal theme parks in Orlando and other locations to special events in Melbourne, fans can look forward to memorable moments celebrating the beloved series.
To stay updated on the festivities, fans are encouraged to follow @HarryPotter on social media and visit the official Harry Potter website to explore features such as the 25th-anniversary brand campaign, house sorting, and joining the official fan club. This year marks not just the remembrance of a film but a celebration of a cultural phenomenon that has unified millions around the love for magic, friendship, and adventure. As the days unfold leading to the 25th anniversary, the world of Harry Potter remains as magical and captivating as ever.