If you’re like me, you wish you could spend every weekend at Universal Studio’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando. Butterbeer, the frog choir, Honeydukes, gift shops galore – what’s not to love? But time, money, work – ugh, adult commitments – just don’t seem to have the same kind of liking to the idea as I do.
Lucky for us Pittsburghers, Harry Potter is coming to us this summer!
The Music of John Williams by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
(Image courtesy of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.)
Event Details
Dates: July 14-16, 2017
Time: Varies by day
Location: Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: Prices vary by seat and day; for more details and to purchase tickets, visit the orchestra’s website here
Ah, John Williams, the legendary composer who has brought countless movies to life with his exciting themes and memorable scores, leaving audiences with a wide range of emotions from chills to tears to delight.
While the Music of John Williams event may not be solely a Harry Potter concert, the theme from the HP movies as well as others from Jaws, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Superman, and more will be sure to fill the room. If you’ve never been to Heinz Hall to hear and see the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, you’re in for a treat. My husband and I attended an event last year featuring the music of Howard Shore, and while our seats may have been in the “nosebleed section” – why do you need to see faces in the orchestra?!, it’s about listening! – the sound was immaculate. I’m sure I even teared up during the theme from the Fellowship of the Ring. I know, c’mon Monica, hold it together. But it was just that good. I’m sure the Music of John Williams show will be sure to delight all those who attend.
Learn more about the upcoming Music of John Williams concert and other events on the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s website.
Harry Potter Birthday Party at Songbird Artistry
Event Details
Date: July 15, 2017
Time: Children’s events (ages 4+) from 1-4 pm; Adult events (ages 18+) from 7:30-10:30 pm
Location: Songbird Artistry, 4316 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: $10 per person
While searching for Harry Potter events in the Pittsburgh area, I came across Songbird Artistry, an adorable shop based out of Lawrenceville selling jewelry and other fandom items. My favorite pieces from Songbird? That’s easy. I’m in love with their Harry Potter Time-Turner necklace and Hogwarts acceptance letters. (Note to friends who read this: possible birthday gift ideas!)
This July, Songbird will celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with children and adult activities as the store transforms into an even more magical place with traces of Harry Potter in all corners. Butterbeer, chocolate frogs, and Polyjuice Potion – yes, please! I’m ready to try all of these Harry Potter-inspired treats.
For those coming with children, the first part of the event offers crafts such as a make-your-own Hogwarts acceptance letter activity. And later for adults, get ready for Quidditch pong and Harry Potter trivia. I don’t know about you, but I think both parts of the event are a must-do.
Learn more about the birthday party on Songbird Artistry’s Facebook event page.
After Dark – PotterFest at the Pittsburgh Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Event Details
Date: July 21, 2017
Time: 6-10 pm
Location: Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: $15 in advance (tickets can be purchased on the museum’s website here), $20 at the event, $13.50 for museum members
Have you ever wanted to visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History without dodging children and feeling guilty that you’re hogging an exhibit when there is a 6-year-old waiting patiently (or not so patiently) behind you? Several times a year, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History holds special after-hour events that are 21+. That’s right, adults only.
The After Dark – PotterFest is all about the magical world of witches, wizards, and magical creatures. Wander the halls of the museum with an adult beverage in hand (I hope there will be Butterbeer!), visit the dance floor with DJ Bill Jakub from Pittsburgh Vibes Unlimited, and admire the costumes of attendees. Included with event admission at no additional cost, you can also learn about poison’s role in nature, myth, and literature at the new exhibit: The Power of Poison in the Natural World.
Additional details can be found on the museum’s website or the After Dark – Potterfest Facebook event page.
Want more Harry Potter events and ideas? Read on for Harry Potter brunch ideas that you can easily do yourself. Until then, mischief managed.
(Butterbeer – one of my weaknesses. Find my favorite recipe to make Butterbeer in your kitchen!)
I love that there’s so many HP events going on! Nowhere near me but looks fun 🙂