It’s been nine whole years since Harry Potter defeated Voldemort, so fans are throwing down for the release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The new chapter in J.K. Rowling's saga, in which our hero is an over-worked Auror and father of three, premieres on stage in London on July 30, with the play’s published script going on sale around the world at midnight. The show already has fans giddy with excitement, and Chicagoans can’t wait to get their hands on the new installment. After you figure out which Hogwarts House you belong in, head to one of these Cursed Child release parties:
57th Street Books
1301 E 57th St, July 30 8pm
The U. of C. campus has perhaps Chicago’s most Hogwartian architecture, so bring your galleons to Hyde Park to feel like a true witch or wizard.
Barnes & Noble
All locations, July 30, 8pm
Barnes & Nobles nationwide are throwing midnight countdown parties, both downtown and throughout the suburbs.
The Book Cellar
4736 N Lincoln Ave, July 30, 10pm
Party like you just won the Quidditch Cup at Lincoln Square’s Book Cellar. Complete with a costume contest, butterbeer and House sorting.
The Magic Tree Bookstore
141 N Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, July 30, 10pm
We’re going to go ahead and assume this bookstore’s name is a reference to the Whomping Willow. Just try not to crash your flying car into The Magic Tree.
Roscoe Books
2142 W Roscoe St, July 31 11am
Roscoe Books is turning into The Three Broomsticks, with the promise of butterbeer at its day-of celebration.
Unabridged Books
3251 N Broadway St, July 30 7pm
Lakeview’s Unabridged Books is offering a 10% discount on all items, and 20% discount on midnight purchases of Cursed Child.
Volumes Bookcafe
1474 N Milwaukee Ave, July 31, 9am
Volumes Bookcafe is throwing an all-day birthday party for The Boy Who Lived. Guaranteed to be better than Harry’s summers at the Dursleys’.