The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration is a magical event currently on at Paddington Town Hall. The celebration draws inspiration from the Triwizard tournament ball held in the fourth Harry Potter book. It is an interactive experience that includes energetic hosts, themed food and drinks and incredible Hogwarts-inspired decor. After touring to iconic venues around the world it is super exciting to have it here in Sydney.
On arrival at Paddington Town Hall, you will join the queue at the entrance and show your QR code that you received when you purchased the ticket. It can take up to 15 minutes to enter the venue, so it’s best that you arrive early to make the most of your 2-hour session.
Once inside you are immediately greeted by the incredible decor! Everywhere you turn there are amazing photo opportunities including a fantastic themed bar, a goblet of fire replica and an ice castle. The whole experience really does feel like you have just stepped into Hogwarts. It also helped that so many of the guests go all out with their outfits. You’ll see a few Hagrids, Snapes and Dumbledores as well as people wearing their best ball gowns and suits.
Adding to the overall atmosphere of the venue was hearing songs from the familiar Harry Potter soundtrack. Throughout the evening the music was a good mix of themed music to set the vibe, and pop music that brought people to the dancefloor.
We recommend your first stop for the evening should be at the themed bar. The menu includes drinks inspired by the various Hogwarts Houses, as well as mulled wine and Butterbeer™. After taking a turn around the venue and snapping a few pictures, you can then head over to the Yule Ball Market. There are so many fun things to look at you’ll honestly feel like a kid in a toy shop! The food on offer is also all themed, and the savoury quiches and treacle tart dessert are definitely recommended.
The evening’s activities are well spaced out, with the hosts of the celebration leading fun interactive performances. It was great to see how so many people joined in, while others preferred to take on the role of spectator and had just as much fun.
The atmosphere is truly immersive and you can’t help but expect Daniel Radcliffe or Emma Watson to suddenly make an appearance. For anyone still interested in attending, Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration will be in Sydney until September 10! General admission tickets for the event start at $75, and there are Family sessions as well as Deluxe ticket options available. This really is a not-to-be-missed event for Harry Potter fans in Sydney.