Just a few days ago, I got to experience Universal Studios Hollywood’s latest attraction, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: The Dark Arts at Hogwarts. From what I can tell, the appearance of the park hadn’t changed all that much and the main event was the light show that took place on Hogwarts castle itself. Walking into the park felt just as magical as before and I was happy to finally be back for a second time. The Butterbeer was just as delicious as the first time and the park was so dense with attractions that after two visits I still feel like there were a few things I missed out on.
This time, it was my fiance’s first visit and compared to me, she’s a loremaster of the Harry Potter books. She noticed a lot of details in the Diagon Alley storefronts that I wouldn’t have been able to spot, even smaller things that don’t make appearances in any of the movies. Of all the stores in the park, Honeydukes and Ollivander’s wand shop, where lucky attendees can be fitted and chosen for their own personal wand.
As for the Dark Arts show, I was blown away. My group and I had a great view of the event, and this is a show where you will want to wait an hour before it starts because it’s worth your time. Every inch of space in Hogwarts view was used to bring the iconic castle to life. Dark magic, skeletal warriors, plague-esque entities, and death-eaters wasn’t enough to bring the castle walls down. I came in expecting a great show, and Universal delivered a greater one. The visual effects were substantial and completely remove themselves from what you usually see at theme parks. I’m 90% certain the show used drones during the light show which is definitely a modern take in the theme park show business.
I drove 50 minutes to get to the park, was only at the park for an hour and I still think Universal’s latest attraction was worth my time. I would go back and watch the show again, and my group and I were very impressed with what we saw. I’m excited to see how other theme parks respond to the innovation Universal has brought to the table, and I’m excited to see what Universal does to prolong their success. Buy some tickets guys, it’s worth every dime.
Until Next Time
JJ King
“DARK ARTS AT HOGWARTS CASTLE” ALL-NEW LIGHT PROJECTION EXPERIENCE
WHAT: Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests to experience an exciting new dimension of sorcery at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” with the introduction of the “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle,” a powerful, original and breathtaking projection experience.
Guests will be asked to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display.
The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts castle and “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” nightly from April 13 – 28 at Universal Studios Hollywood then return from May 25 – 27.
Leave a Reply