In this family we love a good story and if we can live the story as an experience, even better! We’ve been big fans of all things Harry Potter since the first books came out. J.K. Rowling is a master at weaving real history, legends and myths and her own imagination. The result is the creation of outstanding stories in a world that is completely believable. And I have to say, the Dark Arts Light Show at Hogwarts Castle took so many of those elements, added their own brand of Hollywood magic, and if it wasn’t for the crowd of muggles, I could swear we were catapulted into the Wizarding World! 100%
Let’s get real here. Who here has donned on wizard robes and gone to a great Harry Potter event? Put on a Harry Potter Party? Baked magical goods? Harry Potter wizarding Crafts? We’ve done it all and continue to play in this magical world.
Universal knows this about us and invited us to come experience the new dimension of sorcery at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We donned our wizarding best (without breaking the dress code of the park) and entered to watch the Dark Arts Light Show at Hogwarts Castle.
Our Experience
We were told to expect a mesmerizing display of light, music, and special effects and it did not disappoint. The darkest creatures imaginable were unleashed culminating with Lord Voldemort himself giving us all a stern warning. Just when I thought we were going to burst, Dumbledore spoke his sweet wise words and then…SPOILER ALERT!!!!!! the MOST AMAZING MAGICAL SPECTACULAR patronus was cast and to everyone’s delight Good Won!!!
I have to say, I was TOTALLY in the moment. I wanted to stand and fight the bad guys. And I am a firm believer in Good triumphing over evil. It’s not always so easy to see in our world because the bad guys don’t look like Voldemort but I believe in living a good life and leading by example.
Behind the Scenes
Universal Studios is Magical! Universal first cast their light spells in a lighter fashion with “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” and “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” brings more intense tones and drama that reflect the Dark creatures and wizards that challenge goodness in the Wizarding World. We were asked to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display. And we did! Twice! Yes, we stayed and watched it twice! THAT’S how good it was! TWICE…on a school night!
The music was conducted by prolific arranger William Ross and recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra in London, based on the original scores composed for the film series created by Academy Award®-winning composer John Williams. I’m telling you, it was like being RIGHT in the movie! I felt like we were in the last episode when it wasn’t looking so good for Hogwarts. And then the PATRONUS! Did I mention the moment the stag appeared and completely gave me chills??
Recommendation
If you love the world that JK Rowling has created, this is a MUST DO! From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen. The new light projection experience just makes an already amazing immersive experience even better. Most importantly…like most magical things, it is temporary so you’ll want to make your plans as soon as you can.
Here is a glimpse at our day and night in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Two things: First, there is a close up of the special commemorative FULLY INTERACTIVE wand made special for The Dark Arts Light Show in the video. (This is a really big deal and if you are an HP Fan or no one, this would be an amazing gift!) Second, there are just snippets of the light show. We have the whole thing on video but you really need to see it in person!
The Details
Universal Studios Hollywood April 13-28 May 25-27
Universal Studios Orlando
PURCHASE UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TICKETS HERE
If you feel like you need a hand in planning your trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in FLORIDA, my friend Lisa can help you out. Read her tips HERE.
Read: Make Magical Wizarding Bath Bombs
Read: Other Magical Posts
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I am obsessed with all things Harry Potter and have been to the parks in both Orlando and Hollywood. I have never seen this light show though and it sounds amazing!
So cool. My friend who is a travel agent is arranging a Harry Potter tour (including to Scotland) for travelers next year. Let me know if you’d like info on it.
If it’s something she/you are interested in doing a partnership on, absolutely!
That is a wonderful experience. The talent of the “Music” is fantastic.
I know so many people who have gone here and LOVED it! I can see why!
It’s a riot! I highly recommend going while this light show is going on!
Not a big HP fan, but I do love theme parks and shows!!
There is always a reason to celebrate!
It’s a great experience to enjoy with others, especially if they’re obsessed with this series. My nieces/nephews love JK Rowling
It’s a big deal in our family. We love the magic of it all!
As I was reading this, my phone happened to be playing Hedwigs Theme from Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone! I am definitely wanting to go check this out!
HAHA I love this! Go…. it is so worth it!
What a wonderful world of wizardry! Fun.
SO much fun!
Tom and I experience Hogwarts about eight years ago, but have not seen the light show. It sounds fantastic! We’d love to bring the kids.
The light shows are relatively new. This one was absolutely the best one yet …the surprise ending is more than worth it!
I have never read the books or seen any of the movies, but this looks like a lot of fun!
You could absolutely enjoy the show without reading or watching the films. It’s done very well!
I love the wizarding world of Harry Potter!!! Did not see the dark arts light show though… it sounds amazing!!!!!
It IS!!!!!
I haven’t watched any HP movies, but I do love light shows!
You can totally enjoy the show without watching the films. It’s its own unique form of storytelling
I’ve always loved a good light show and this one looks like so much fun! I can tell from your pics that a good time was had by everyone. Fun!
SO much fun!!!
I have to admit, I have never read a HP book or seen the movie. However, I can’t wait to go to the park and experience this . It looks amazing.
You don’t have to watch the films to enjoy the show. It was its own form of storytelling
What a cool experience for you all! How fun. Thanks for sharing!
SO much fun!
Must do this! Reading the Harry Potter series as my son grew up is one of my favorite memories.
You absolutely must do this! It was phenomenal!
So cool! I do love HP!
My people!!!