Happy Halloween from MuggleNet!

Happy Halloween! We all know that this date holds special importance in the Harry Potter series. It is the day Lord Voldemort murdered James and Lily Potter, but also saw his plans backfire at the hands of a baby boy wizard.

Taking a look back, here’s how Halloween played a key role in the first four Potter books. In Sorcerer’s Stone, the Troll “breaks in” to Hogwarts and as a result of the attack, the Trio is formed. In Chamber of Secrets, Mrs. Norris is petrified and we learn the chamber has been re-opened for the first time in 50 years.

In Prisoner of Azkaban, escaped prisoner and notorious mass-murderer Sirius Black attacks the portrait of the Fat Lady outside Gryffindor Tower. And in Goblet of Fire, Harry’s name mysteriously comes out of the goblet, making him the fourth champion in the Triwizard Tournament.

Here are some Halloween-themed things taking place around the site:

MNI’s annual Halloween Ball is now underway! Come and join the fright fest and find all sorts of Halloween-themed fun – including contests and games, holiday-themed roleplays, and Quidditch-based trivia. The ball will last until Tuesday night for all members, and will stay open until Wednesday night for our special Great Hall key-holders.

Our Pumpkin Carving Contest has come to a close, but the winners will be announced shortly!

Are you dressing up for Halloween? Or did you this weekend? Share your costumes with us in the comments below.