Harry Potter Theme Park

Hundreds of fans gathered in front of Hogwarts castle for fireworks at the launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. Music from the Harry Potter franchise was conducted live by renowned composer John Williams.

Roberto Gonzales / Universal

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Actors Tom Felton, Rupert Grint, Michael Gambon, Bonnie Wright, Daniel Radcliffe, James and Oliver Phelps were on hand for the opening.

Sheri Lowen / Universal

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The Hogwarts Express arrives at Hogsmeade Station.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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As guests leave Hogsmeade and make their way toward Hogwarts, the fictional school for Potter and his friends, they encounter the Triwizard Spirit Rally, inspired by the scene in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The line for the Dragon Challenge attraction winds through a gothic archway.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The entrance to Hogsmeade.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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Portraits line the walls of Hogwarts castle, the marquee attraction of the theme park.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The Dragon Challenge attraction.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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Headmaster Dumbledore’s office at Hogwarts castle.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The hog's head, which is mounted on the wall of the Hog’s Head pub, comes alive and puff its jowls at visitors.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The Honeydukes sweets offers Candyfloss, Pepper Imps, Sugar Quills, and more.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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A performance at the Triwizard Spirit Rally.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The Flight of Hippogriff roller coaster.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The arch entrance into Hogsmeade.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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Daniel Radcliffe and James Phelps took an inaugural ride on the Flight of the Hippogriff attraction.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The Room of Requirement.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

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The 20-acre area includes the village of Hogsmeade featuring Zonko’s joke shop, Honeydukes, the Three Broomsticks, the Hog’s Head pub, the Owlery and Owl Post, Ollivanders and Dervish and Banges.

Kevin Kolczynski / Universal

Harry Potter Theme Park

After a long wait, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened to the public this weekend in Florida. View our gallery of just-released photos of the spectacular rides and sights.