Liverpool Central Library was transformed into Hogwarts over the weekend in celebration of the 20th anniversary since the publication of the first Harry Potter book.
Potterheads were treated to a Potter Panto, potions workshops, live owls and a visit from the Liverpuddly Cannons Quidditch team.
James Anders, 24, was one of the organisers involved and highlighted the importance of the inclusive nature of the event.
He told JMU Journalism: “We wanted to keep it as open as possible. The pantomime is obviously aimed at kids, but there are a few adult jokes thrown in. The audience for Harry Potter is huge – my nan is 72 and she loved the books, so it’s important everyone feels welcome.”
The Harry Potter community has also branched out further, with the once fictitious sport of Quidditch represented at the library.
YouTube: Jokeshinet
Quidditch, the invention of Potter creator JK Rowling, is now a respected sport in its own right.
The Liverpuddly Cannons team are breaking new ground with what they say is the only mixed-gender, LGBTQ-friendly university sport in Liverpool.
Alisha Raithatha, 20, is the vice-vaptain and plays ‘Beater’ for the Cannons. She told JMU Journalism: “I got into it because I was a massive Harry Potter fan, but it’s a mix of people obsessed with Harry Potter and those just wanting to try a new sport.
“I think the reason many people have stayed is because everyone here is so friendly. Were obviously LGBT-friendly, but everyone here is also just so nice. It is like my little family.”
The Harry Potter event at Central Library concluded with a giant cardboard dragon, supplied by students of LJMU marching through the crowd and entertaining the children and adults alike.