Celebrate 20 Years of “Harry Potter” in Australia!

As we approach the special day when Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was released exactly 20 years ago, it appears that we’re not the only ones counting down till June 26!

In Australia, the University of Newcastle will be celebrating the book’s anniversary at its Ourimbah campus on June 26 at 4:00 p.m. AEST. On the day, the event will consist of many magical activities, including a free screening of the first Potter film, a dress-up competition (with prizes included!), an audience Q&A, and a panel discussion titled Fairytale and Fandom.

Now, for those of you who think that this discussion will be purely academic, think again! Four contemporary literature and Potter experts, including Head of English and Writing Associate Professor Caroline Webb, will explore the Potter books in line with their research to further understand their impressive impact on mainstream culture.

A passionate Potterhead, Dr. Webb emphasized her love for the story of the Boy Who Lived from when she was first introduced to the books by her mother.

I first started reading them because my mum told me about them.

When I read the first one I thought, ‘this is a really fun story’. I got engrossed by the story that was being told and the sense of danger.

Dr. Webb later received the ultimate gift as a Potter fan by combining her passion with her career.

I’m a kid, too, at heart, but I didn’t think I’d be studying them in my profession when I first read them.

Now I’ve developed courses; I teach a course in children’s fantasy literature — it has changed my academic life.

It is no wonder, then, that Dr. Webb will be present at the celebrations held at the University of Newcastle. We bet the event will be magical!

Will you be in Australia on June 26 to celebrate all things magical? How are you celebrating the 20th anniversary of the first Potter book?