Warner Bros. Discovery has officially announced a global 25th anniversary celebration for Harry Potter, marking 25 years since the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first film in the iconic franchise.
The year-long celebration, scheduled for 2026, will feature cinema re-releases, global fan events, immersive experiences, special merchandise, and studio tour activations, reinforcing the franchise’s enduring cultural and commercial impact.
Released in 2001, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone introduced audiences to the wizarding world and went on to launch one of the most successful film franchises of all time. Over eight films, the series grossed more than $7.7 billion worldwide, becoming a defining cultural moment for an entire generation.
According to Warner Bros. Discovery, the 25th anniversary celebration is designed to honour both long-time fans and a new generation discovering the films for the first time.
As part of the anniversary rollout, Warner Bros. Discovery has outlined several global activations:
- Butterbeer Season: A travelling Butterbeer experience will appear in select cities worldwide, offering themed drinks, merchandise, and fan activities.
- Harry Potter’s Birthday (July 31): Official celebrations tied to Harry’s birthday will take place across Harry Potter retail locations and partner venues.
- Back to Hogwarts Campaign: The annual fan celebration will be expanded in 2026 as part of the anniversary programme. These events are expected to run across North America, Europe, Asia, and other major markets.
One of the centre pieces of the celebration will be the global theatrical re-release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
The film is scheduled to return to cinemas between August 27 and September 3, 2026, with screenings featuring previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage, offering fans a deeper look at how the original film was made.
In addition, selected locations will host “Shared Reality” immersive screenings, blending the movie with enhanced visual elements for a more interactive viewing experience.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will also mark the milestone with a special anniversary feature running from May to September 2026.
Visitors will be able to explore original sets, props, and costumes from the first film, with new exhibits highlighting the early creative decisions that shaped the franchise.
Warner Bros. Discovery will roll out 25th anniversary-branded merchandise throughout 2026, featuring a commemorative logo inspired by the magical imagery of the films.
Major global brands, including LEGO, Loungefly, Crocs, Hallmark, and others, are set to release special collections. Exclusive items will also be available at official Harry Potter stores in cities such as London, Tokyo, and across the United States.