Bridgnorth is set to transform into a magical realm on July 31 as it comes together to celebrate the birthday of the beloved literary character, Harry Potter. The town’s independent businesses and vibrant creative community are joining forces to organise a series of free-to-attend events honouring the fictional young wizard.
A Wizard’s Birthdayis organised by ShireFolk, a platform dedicated to supporting the arts in the community and the team behind the popular Bridgnorth Music and Arts Festival. With the support of local businesses and community groups, the event promises to be a day filled with enchantment, creativity, and fun for all ages.
“Harry Potter holds a special place in the hearts of people of all ages, inspiring a sense of wonder and imagination,” said Jennifer Bone, of ShireFolk. “I am thrilled that the community has come together to make this happen. I hear so many visitors to our town comment on how ‘Harry Potter’ the town feels, and this event embraces that feeling along with the positive and creative energy that makes our town so special.”
There will be an enchanting range of activities suitable for witches, wizards, and muggles alike. Visitors can look forward to immersive experiences such as Meet the Owls, visiting Slytherins House, and immersive trails across the town.
Bridgnorth’s independent businesses are putting on special themed menus, hands-on activities, and Harry Potter-inspired experiences. The town will also be welcoming Shropshire’s High Sheriff Brian Welti on the day.
The programme of official ‘A Wizard’s Birthday in Bridgnorth’ events include:
· Sorting Hat Ceremony at St Leonard’s Church
· Deathly Hallows Trail winding through the town
· Horcrux Hunt around the town centre’s independent businesses
· Dark Marks at Lavington’s Hole
· Meet the Owls
· Explore Slytherin’s House
In addition to the official activities, businesses and groups are getting in the spirit by hosting a range of independently run partner/community events, including:
· Hogwarts Express at Severn Valley Railway
· Story Creation at Bridgnorth Town Hall
· ‘Meet Hagrid’ at Apley Café
· ‘Monster Book of Monsters’ craft activities at Bridgnorth Library
· Paint Owl Figures and Harry Potter themed games at The Board Room
· ‘Find the Snitch’ at Violet’s Tea Room
· Film Screening at The Majestic Cinema
Even more events are to be added to the bill in the run up to the day.
You can find out more about A Wizard’s Birthday, including details of how you can get involved as a volunteer or a partnering business, at shirefolk.co.uk/awizardsbirthday or follow @ShireFolkMusic
CAPTION: Organisers getting into the spirit ahead of A Wizard’s Birthday.
