Muggles, Mark Your Calendars: This Magical Harry Potter Exhibit Arrives Stateside in 2018

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updated May 3, 2019

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True Potterheads understand that J.K. Rowling’s fantasy book series is the gift that keeps on giving, but here’s more proof for those who don’t already get it: Next fall, the New York Historical Society will host Harry Potter: A History of Magic after the exhibition completes its run in London.

Slated to arrive stateside in October 2018, the US opening of Harry Potter: A History of Magic will coincide with the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in the US by Scholastic. The exhibition will feature an abundance of Potter-themed items, such original drawings and drafts by JK Rowling and the series illustrator Jim Kay that have never been viewed by the public. Additionally, visitors will have the chance to browse a selection of manuscripts, rare books and magical objects taken straight from the British Library in London’s collection.

Jamie Andrews, Head of Culture and Learning at the British Library, described the exhibit with enthusiasm in an official press release:

We are so excited to be taking a major exhibition to New York for the very first time. Harry Potter: A History of Magic promises to be a stunning exhibition, capturing the traditions of folklore and magic across the world, which are at the heart of the Harry Potter stories. We’re delighted to be able to share this exhibition with fans across the pond following its run here in London, especially as we have the opportunity to develop the exhibition for a U.S. audience in collaboration with the New-York Historical Society and U.S. publisher Scholastic.

Fans of Potter who live in the US have a bit of wait to see the magical exhibition in person, but luckily there’s something to tide them over in the meantime: When the London show opens on October 17, the publisher will release Harry Potter: A Journey Through a History of Magic, a family-themed book that provides a comprehensive look at all the exhibit has to offer.

Harry Potter: A History of Magic is at the British Library from October 20, 2017 through February 28, 2018.

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