Harry Potter fans rejoice! 'Wizarding World of Harry Potter' to open at Universal Studios California this April 2016 [details here]
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Aspiring wizards and witches in California rejoice as it was announced that the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" will open in Universal Studios Hollywood on April 7, 2016.
The highly anticipated theme park addition has been in works for many years. The announcement was made by director Alan Gilmore and Evanna Lynch, the actress who played Luna Lovegood in the "Harry Potter" films.
Watch the video released by Universal Studios Hollywood this week:
A TV spot has also been released in time for the announcement:
"More than five years in the making...'The Wizarding World of Harry Potter' is being masterfully recreated with impeccable detail as a real-world interpretation at Universal Studios Hollywood," Universal Studios said in a statement, as reported by CBS.
The theme park will undoubtedly showcase their biggest 3D attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a ride that will have riders put on Quidditch goggles as they fly through the Hogwarts grounds, meet a dragon and have close encounters with the Whomping Willow.
Another attraction in the Harry Potter-themed park is the Flight of the Hippogriff, an outdoor roller coaster. Park-goers will be able to roam around Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle and the rides, shops and attractions in it.
"The momentum behind J.K. Rowling's wizarding world is as strong as ever and we are incredibly excited to bring Hogwarts to Hollywood," said Brad Globe, president of Warner Bros. Consumer Products in a release, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. "Fans around the world have experienced the magic at 'The Wizarding World of Harry Potter' in Orlando and Osaka, and we look forward to continued success with our partners at Universal Studios Hollywood as we offer more fans a chance to step into this immersive environment."
According to Los Angeles Times, the new theme park will increase sales for Universal Studios. Additionally, there was a price increase in tickets and merchandise for the park in November.
Californians will be able to purchase the annual pass program for $139 for 182 days of access, $199 for 244 days and a $299 pass can be availed for 312 days for all attendees.
For those who will buy annual passes, they can visit on April 7, 2016, opening day.
For fans who can't wait until next year, they can take a virtual tour of the attraction in the park via the official website: Wizarding World Hollywood.