Universal’s Epic Universe to Debut New Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Next year, Universal Orlando Resort will unveil its third installment of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, set to be part of the new Epic Universe park. This latest addition, named “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic,” will bring together elements from both the “Fantastic Beasts” films and the “Harry Potter” series, creating a unique experience that complements the existing Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley attractions at the resort.

TODAY’s Al Roker and Craig Melvin share a first look at @UniversalORL Universal Epic Universe’s new Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic. pic.twitter.com/xS7FmIQFBE

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) July 31, 2024

The Ministry of Magic will be one of five immersive worlds featured in the new Universal Epic Universe in Orlando. Visitors will first encounter Celestial Park, which acts as a gateway to the other themed areas, including Super Nintendo World, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and, of course, the Ministry of Magic.

In this new attraction, guests will begin their journey in a Muggle park in Paris before entering the enchanting world of 1920s Place Cachée, a hidden magical shopping district. This area, characterized by its iconic Haussmannian architecture, features shops, sidewalk cafés, and historic domes. Here, visitors can use interactive wands to cast spells in the streets, encounter fantastic beasts at a traveling circus, and, for the first time, travel across time and space from 1920s Paris to 1990s London using the MétroFloo to reach the British Ministry of Magic.

NEW: Epic Universe introduces The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic ✨

pic.twitter.com/ZKKQ8tc5pX

— Park Hoppin’ (@ParkHoppin) July 31, 2024

Key highlights of the Ministry of Magic world include:

1. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: This attraction promises groundbreaking ride technology. Guests will use the MétroFloo, inspired by the Floo Network, to journey to the Ministry of Magic for the trial of Dolores Umbridge. The ride will feature omnidirectional lifts and a thrilling chase involving Harry, Ron, Hermione, and a house-elf named Higgledy as they pursue Umbridge through the Ministry, facing challenges from Death Eaters and magical creatures.
2. Le Cirque Arcanus: A full-scale theater experience featuring live performers, aerialists, puppetry, and special effects. The show tells the story of Ringmaster Skender, who steals Newt Scamander’s suitcase containing magical creatures to save his failing circus. The performance follows circus employee Gwenlyn as she tries to rescue the creatures.
3. Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique: A premier wand shop where visitors can purchase some of the finest wands crafted by artisan Cosme Acajor. In addition to popular wands from Ollivanders, the shop offers unique wands in three-sided boxes, along with a guide to spell-casting locations.
4. Wand Magic: Guests can use their interactive wands throughout Place Cachée to engage with magical elements, including spells, creatures like Nifflers and Bowtruckles, and enchanted storefronts.
5. Unusual Entertainment: As guests explore Place Cachée, they will encounter a variety of characters from the wizarding world, including Hogwarts and Ilvermorny students, French Aurors, and talking portraits.

NEW: The @UniversalORL creative team describe “the most ambitious ride we’ve ever created” – “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” in the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic coming to Epic Universe…. pic.twitter.com/eIYXFnM9cN

— Marcus Leshock (@marcusleshock) July 31, 2024

Brian Roberts, CEO of NBCUniversal’s parent company Comcast, expressed his excitement about the new park on a recent earnings call, describing it as “completely original” and “the most exciting project” since NBCUniversal’s acquisition. The Epic Universe is expected to significantly boost attendance and market share, leading to an expansion in hotel accommodations and a new terminal at the Orlando airport. The new park will be located approximately three miles from the existing Universal parks, accessible via a dedicated road designed for a fleet of electric buses.

Major Points:

• Universal Orlando Resort will open “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic” as part of its new Epic Universe park.
• The Ministry of Magic joins existing attractions Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, completing a trio of Wizarding World experiences at the resort.
• Guests will travel from 1920s Paris to 1990s London using MétroFloo, and can explore magical shops, cast spells, and encounter fantastic beasts.
• Highlights include the ride “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” the live show “Le Cirque Arcanus,” and the wand shop “Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique.”
• Epic Universe is part of a broader expansion at Universal Orlando, including new hotel accommodations and infrastructure improvements to enhance visitor access and experience.

James Kravitz – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News