Wicked wizardry in Boston

(L-R) Lasell students and friends Morgan Marcou, Allie White, Aria Conti, Lea Moon, and Lain Tripp pose in the Great Hall of Hogwarts. Photo courtesy of Aria Conti.

I finally received my Hogwarts acceptance letter, even if it was seven years too late. Located next to Cambridgeside, Harry Potter: The Exhibition, is open through April 27th. It is a place of magic and memories for all Harry Potter fans and even those who are not.

When you first enter you can pick a Hogwarts house, character, and wand. Personally, I am a Gryffindor through and through. Though you can choose to be a Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Slytherin! Then choose your character and wand before heading inside where you can earn points for your house and see which house wins the House Cup at the end of your experience.

“As someone who doesn’t know anything about ‘Harry Potter,’ I thought the exhibit was super interactive and fun even though I didn’t understand much of the areas,” said Lain Tripp, a first-year student at Lasell.

“The rooms were all nicely themed and I liked looking around at the different props and decorations that brought the exhibit together. The way they used technology and the bracelets made the experience unique for everyone, and I would recommend the ‘Harry Potter’ exhibit to anyone. Regardless if you are a fan or not, it’s a very fun experience.”

“I am not the biggest fan of ‘Harry Potter.’ I’ve never seen the movies or read the books, but the ‘Harry Potter’ experience was really fun. We brewed potions, pulled mandrakes, and played quidditch. The props and decor were well made, and Hagrid’s cottage smelled of firewood,” first-year Lasell student Lea Moon said.

A model of the Hogwarts castle on display at Harry Potter: The Exhibition. Photo courtesy of Aria Conti.

Walk in to see your name on the Marauder’s Map before following the golden snitch through the exhibit where people get to enjoy the story of “Harry Potter” through photos, clothes, and interactive games using snitch wristbands, which are scanned in every room to keep track of your location on the Marauder’s Map.

“It felt like I was reliving a part of my childhood. I felt like a little kid again. I would recommend it to any fans of the books and movies,” said Lasell first-year student Allie White.

It is fun without having to be overwhelmed by lots of other people and crazy lines, the picture opportunities are amazing. Anyone can enjoy this experience whether you are a fan of “Harry Potter” or not it is going to be a good time in the exhibit and you should consider going with some friends before this location closes!