Festival 9 3/4 set for July 12

PRINCETON — Eleven years ago, J.K Rowling became a household name with the publication of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” Six sequels and five films later, her wizarding world has become a cherished place in the imaginations of millions of her readers.

On July 12, the magical world of Harry Potter will come alive in Princeton as Festival 9 3/4 returns for its fourth year.

Festival 9 3/4 is a family friendly event with games, food (including Honeydukes famous chocolate frogs), and activities for all ages. There will be opportunities to visit No. 12 Grimmauld Place, the home of Sirius Black and the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix , St. Mungos Hospital of Magical Maladies, Gringotts underground vaults, Honeydukes Sweet Shop, and of course, the famous Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The festival will begin at 5 p.m. and continue “until the owls fly home.” Hogwarts classes will run through 8:30 p.m. and will include Herbology with Professor Sprout, Divination with Professor Trelawney, and the ever popular Potions class with the infamous Professor Snape.

Advance tickets for Hogwarts classes may be obtained in person at Green River Books in Princeton starting July 9. Tickets may also be obtained the evening of the festival at the door of Hogwarts starting at 5 p.m. For more information, contact Kelly Autrey-Webber at (815) 876-1106.