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Harry Potter theme park opening in Orlando

AFP | Wed, Sep 16 2009

All of the action and adventures of Harry Potter’s world will come to life this spring 2010.

Harry Potter theme park opening in Orlando

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MIAMI - "The Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter," a new theme park based on the exploits of the hugely popular boy wizard, is set to open in spring 2010 at Universal Studios, the Orlando resort announced Tuesday.

"All of the action and adventures of Harry Potter’s world will come to life here at Universal Orlando Resort," said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks and Resorts.

"The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be unlike any other experience on earth."

The park is being developed in coordination with J.K. Rowling, the British author of the immensely successful books, which have also been adapted into films.

In a press release, the theme park promised a "completely immersive environment," that recreates the fabled Hogwarts school for wizards that Potter and his friends attend, as well as the surrounding village of Hogsmeade.

At a replica of the Three Broomsticks, one of Hogsmeade’s popular pubs, visitors will be treated to traditional British fare and have the chance to sip on Butterbeer – Potter’s tipple of choice.

The park will also feature theme rides, including the "Flight of the Hippogriff," which will simulate a training flight on the magical, quick-to-offend creature.

Fans of the fast-paced wizard sport Quidditch will also have a chance to partake in a simulated Triwizard Tournament, as well as examine Quidditch equipment and even the elusive Golden Snitch at several Hogsmeade shops.

"Harry Potter continues to spark the imaginations of fans of all ages and we really have seen the anticipation continue to build for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter," said Brad Globe, president of Warner Bros. Consumer Products.

The Harry Potter series continues to be a global phenomenon – over 400 million copies of the books, which are available in 67 languages, have been sold in more than 200 countries and the movie adaptations have broken box office records.

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," the first of a two-part film adaptation of the seventh book in the series, is scheduled to be released in 2010, followed by the final movie in 2011.

-AFP