Warner Bros. Discovery’s premium streaming platform HBO Max is counting down to one of the most anticipated days in the Harry Potter calendar: the annual Back to Hogwarts celebration.
Taking place on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Old Billingsgate in London, the one-day fan experience will bring witches and wizards from around the world together to celebrate the unforgettable moment when students board the Hogwarts Express for their journey to Hogwarts.
Admission to the event is free, with tickets distributed in advance. The celebration will also offer fans a first glimpse of what is to come from the new HBO Original series Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which will premiere this holiday season exclusively on HBO Max.
Important reminder: There will be no official event, countdown, or announcement at King’s Cross Station this year. Fans are strongly advised not to travel to King’s Cross on September 1.
What Can Fans Expect?
Inspired by the iconic journey to Hogwarts, this year’s experience will put Platform 9¾ at the heart of the celebration, with the spectacular London and Tower Bridge skyline providing the backdrop at Old Billingsgate. Fans can look forward to a day filled with activities, exclusive gifts, interactive experiences, and surprises.
- Exclusive Gifts & Audiobooks: Bloomsbury will be giving away books throughout the event. In partnership with Pottermore Publishing and Audible, all attendees will also receive a free download of the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: Full-Cast Edition audiobook.
- Interactive Experiences: MGA Entertainment, Craft Buddy, The Carat Shop, and Rubies Masquerade will host special activations featuring prize draws, prize wheels, photo opportunities with authentic costumes, and Time-Turner-themed surprises.
- Collections & Gaming: The Noble Collection will showcase a giant Wizard Chess set, while interactive gaming stations will allow fans to play LEGO Hogwarts Legacy, LEGO® Harry Potter™ Collection, Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, and Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells.
- Iconic Photo Opportunities: Fans will be able to take photos with Hagrid’s flying motorcycle, featured at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, as well as explore themed areas celebrating Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which marks its 10th anniversary this year.
Ticket Information
Tickets are completely free and will be released in limited batches through Eventbrite at 1:00 p.m. each day from Monday, August 24 through Friday, August 28, subject to availability. Visitors must present a timed ticket booked through the Eventbrite app to enter the event.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
- Location: Old Billingsgate Market, 1 Old Billingsgate Walk, London
- Duration: Approximately one-hour sessions
- Entry: Tickets are required. Guests must bring valid photo ID. Attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets and further information:
Eventbrite – Back to Hogwarts: The HBO Max Platform 9¾ Fan Experience
