Harry Potter: The Exhibition Opens at Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute

An exhibition about Harry Potter and the Wizarding World launches a global tour.

February 18, 2022

The Great Hall at Harry Potter: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pa.

Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment

Harry Potter: The Exhibition, a touring exhibition presented about the Wizarding World, makes its world premiere at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pa.

The all-new behind-the-scenes exhibition celebrates the moments, characters, settings and beasts as seen in the films and stories of “Harry Potter,” “Fantastic Beasts” and the expanded Wizarding World, including “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” through crafted environments that honor many of the moments fans and audiences have loved for more two decades. Visitors can get an up-close look at everything from original costumes to authentic props as they embark on a personalized journey through magical environments using immersive design and technology.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition was created and developed by Imagine Exhibitions in partnership with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment in association with EMC Presents. The 18,000-square-foot exhibition features 21 celebratory galleries, including The Great Hall, Hogwarts castle, Hagrid’s

Hut, Hogwarts Houses and Newt’s Suitcase. Guests will transition into the exhibition from the King’s Cross Station, where they will complete their visitor profile, selecting their Hogwarts house, wand, and Patronus as they set off on their personalized journey through the experience.

As visitors explore each gallery, their interactions are captured using RFID wristbands to deliver unique experiences linked to their visitor profile. They will get an up-close look at authentic props and original costumes from the “Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts” films.

“We are so excited to be partnering with Imagine Exhibition and bringing the magic to Philadelphia and officially opening the doors to this awe-inspiring interactive experience,” says Peter van Roden, senior vice president, Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment. “This exhibition is an incredible way for Wizarding World fans to celebrate the world of Hogwarts and beyond – bringing them up close and personal with their favorite props, costumes, creatures, sets and more.”

An exclusive collection of Harry Potter: The Exhibition merchandise will be available for guests including an assortment of themed collections that span the Wizarding World. Fans can choose from a range of products such as apparel, jewelry and edible treats, including Chocolate Frogs and bottled Butterbeer, as well as rare collectible art from MinaLima, the graphic design duo on all “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films.

In addition, MinaLima created a small number of two custom prints exclusive to this exhibition, one of which pays homage to Philadelphia, the host city. A limited-edition of 500 premium prints, hand-signed by Studio MinaLima founders Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, this Philadelphia Print is intended to be displayed in conjunction with the Commemorative Exhibition Art Print.

“Harry Potter: The Exhibition brings iconic moments that are beloved by fans across the world to life in an immersive and innovative way, providing an experience like none other, and we are thrilled that The Franklin Institute is the first to host this incredible exhibition,” says Larry Dubinski, president and chief executive officer, The Franklin Institute.