Barbara Porch is ready for another day of magic in Antioch, when her brainchild Wizards Weekend returns June 16.
A self-proclaimed lover of all-things “Harry Potter,” Porch created the event last year as executive director of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. She was inspired to continue Wizards Weekend this year after meeting other wizards, muggles and other spirited people at the event, who requested some changes.
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Folks who took long broom rides to get there asked for the event to be held all in one day, and adults asked for something special for them since only the children can attend magic school, Porch said.
So this year, Wizards Weekend will be held on a single and jam-packed day with high-spirited adventure featuring a new grand banquet for all ages including adults, as well as the wizard and muggle faire where vendors sell charms, robes, dobby dolls, brooms and other mystical paraphernalia. Families also can participate in a Horcrux hunt and take photos of themselves with their favorite magicians. The children’s magic school is back, too.
Porch is being mysterious about what people ages 5-99 can expect at the Wizard Grand Banquet to be held from 6-9 p.m. at the Antioch VFW Hall on North Avenue. Pre-registration is required for the event. Children ages 5-12 pay $35; adults pay $40. Death Eaters are not invited.
With the touch of a wand (and some human ingenuity), the hall will be transformed into a place where muggles and wizards can enjoy a feast, some magic and surprises.
Porch added, “Don’t be surprised if you see a dragon.”
Food will be patterned after what folks ate at Hogwarts School in the dining hall. Professors will attend, magic will happen and “there will be a grand finale,” Porch said.
Children ages 7-12 will participate in the Kids Hogwarts School of Magic, a favorite at last year’s inaugural event, Porch said.
This year, school lasts longer with four magical classes including broom-riding 101. Students also can participate in a grand finale in which good battles evil.
Wannabe magicians can dress for their Hogwarts house of choice or be placed by the sorting hat.
Hogwarts School of Magic is sold out.
Immediately following will be a costume contest for humans and their magical beasts — dogs only.
Last year, someone brought their pug dressed up as Harry Pugster, Porch said. “People have wonderful imaginations and are very creative.”
Porch suggests witches and wizards, dressed in costume if they desire, stop by the Ministry of Magic information booth by the Wizards and Muggles Arts and Crafts Faire first to receive a map of Wizard Village.
The village consists of participating businesses offering some extra fun and magic. Families can also hunt for Horcruxes in the village with the chance to win magical prizes.
Porch said plenty of photo opportunities will exist for young and old to catch the magic on their phones and cameras.
“Wizards Weekend Day is a community event hosted by the Antioch Chamber and is not held in conjunction or associated in any way with J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment,” Porch said.
Wizards Weekend Day
When: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. June 16
Where: Antioch
Tickets: Free admission
Information: 847-395-2233; wizardsweekend.com More Top Picks Best Countertop Ovens
