Where to Celebrate the Release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the NYC Area

By Melissa A. Kay July 21, 2016

Harry Potter fans, rejoice! A bunch of local bookstores will be holding book release parties to celebrate J.K. Rowling’s latest publication, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Have fun with other fans while getting your copy! Here's where to celebrate the beloved wizard in your area.

Barnes & Noble

Various Locations throughout the tri-state area.

Barnes & Noble, the nation’s largest retail bookseller, is holding a month-long celebration to honor the release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One & Two. Things kicked off on Fri, June 24 at 7pm with fun activities, a chance to win Harry Potter limited edition prints, a coloring station, Harry Potter themed treats from The Cheesecake Factory, 3-D puzzles, and other Harry Potter themed events. Find a location near you here.

Book Court General Books

163 Court St., Brooklyn

On July 30 at 10:30pm, Book Court will have a Midnight Release Party to celebrate Rowling’s books. Come celebrate the magic with food and drinks, Harry Potter trivia games, and of course the long-awaited release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One & Two. This independent bookstore was voted Best Bookstore of 2012 by The Village Voice, so aside from the Potter mania, it is a great place to experience.

WORD Bookstore

50 N 3rd St., Brooklyn

Head to WORD Bookstore for a Harry Potter release party on July 30 at 10pm. There will be cocktails (for the parents), Honeydukes-inspired treats, and lots of fun and games. A host will be present at this independent bookstore to keep the festivities pumping until the books are released for purchase. The venue is small, just 1,000-square-feet, but the party will be huge! Tickets include one copy of the book and a slice of Harry’s birthday cake! Get your tickets in advance here.

Strand Book Store

828 Broadway, Manhattan

Come on down to Strand on July 30 at 8pm to celebrate the midnight release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One & Two. Have a blast playing Potter trivia games, win prizes, and guests are encouraged to wear a Harry Potter themed costume! Once the clock strikes 12, the books will be sold. While you’re there, check out the independent store’s rare and used books you can’t find anywhere else.

Clinton Book Shop

12 E. Main St., Clinton, NJ

Clinton Book Shop is a full service independently owned and operated book shop open seven days a week. The store will be celebrating the release of the latest Potter book on July 30 with specific details to come. Visit the company website for updates as to the time for the release party and other festivities that will accompany the release.

Fairfield University Bookstore

1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, CT

On July 30 at 9pm, come to the Fairfield University Bookstore for a midnight release extravaganza! Come in costume and have a blast with trivia games, a map search, tasty goodies, and prizes while you wait for the exciting book release. This event is free and open to the public. Along with the racks of books, you can purchase University clothing, hats, and other school-related items. Enjoy the campus and get ready for Potter mania!

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