Munich has always been a city of culture, but in 2024, it became a city of magic. The much-anticipated Harry Potter: The Exhibition finally made its way to Germany, opening in the iconic Kleine Olympiahalle on May 9th. Fans across the country flocked to the event, eager to immerse themselves in the wizarding world they’ve loved for decades. The exhibition, now closed, left a lasting impression, delivering an experience that was more than just nostalgic—it was a technological marvel.
A journey into the Wizarding World
For four magical months, visitors to Harry Potter: The Exhibition were treated to an experience unlike any other. What set this exhibition apart was its combination of interactive technology and meticulous design, allowing fans to step into the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. Every corner of the exhibition was crafted to transport guests into the story, from Hogwarts’ floating candles to Hagrid’s giant armchair.
Guests didn’t just observe the magic—they participated in it. Upon entry, each visitor received a wristband, allowing them to personalize their experience. From choosing a Hogwarts house to selecting a wand and Patronus, the exhibition made everyone feel like a student at the famous school of witchcraft and wizardry. Throughout the journey, visitors earned points for their house by engaging in various activities, from tossing a Quaffle on the Quidditch pitch to casting spells with their interactive wands.
Before the event, Tom Zaller, President and CEO of Imagine Exhibitions, had emphasized how excited he was to bring this experience to Germany for the first time. “Visitors will be able to see original props and costumes, enjoy some of their favorite scenes from the films, and participate in interactive activities in the different rooms,” he said. After the event’s conclusion, it’s safe to say that the exhibition lived up to the hype.
Highlights from the exhibition
One of the standout elements was the Hogwarts Castle Gallery, an immersive multimedia experience that featured iconic elements such as the Whomping Willow and the Marauder’s Map. Guests were thrilled to see their names appear on the famous map, guiding them deeper into the exhibition. In the Great Hall Gallery, visitors were greeted with the enchanting sight of floating candles, just as they had seen in the films. This space was particularly popular for photo opportunities, as fans marvelled at the beautiful recreations of the film’s most memorable settings.
Seasonal moments were also highlighted, bringing a new celebration layer to this magical environment. For those who wanted a more hands-on experience, the Hogwarts Classrooms Galleries were a delight. Here, guests brewed potions, predicted the future, and even defended themselves against a boggart, using a digital wand to cast the “Riddikulus” charm. These interactive activities allowed visitors to feel like an authentic Hogwarts students, making the exhibition not just a visual spectacle but a fully immersive adventure.
Discover some of the darker aspects of the Wizarding World at Harry Potter: The Exhibition. #DarkArtsMonth pic.twitter.com/8rEEPvKnHF
— Harry Potter: The Exhibition (@HP_Exhibition) October 10, 2023
The exhibition also honored J.K. Rowling’s magical creatures. Hagrid’s Hut and the Forbidden Forest featured an interactive Patronus charm experience where fans could summon their own Patronus—a favorite moment for many. The Forbidden Forest came alive with iconic creatures like centaurs and the menacing Acromantula, drawing visitors into the darker, more mysterious corners of the wizarding world. Additionally, the Fantastic Beasts section offered fans a glimpse into the wider Harry Potter universe, with costumes and props from the spin-off films and the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play. The exhibition was truly comprehensive, touching on every part of the magical world that has captivated audiences for over two decades.
Harry Potter and the power of immersive technology
What made this exhibition particularly groundbreaking was its use of state-of-the-art immersive technology. Technology was at the heart of the exhibition, from the interactive wristbands to the multimedia experiences. As Zaller mentioned during the opening, the exhibition utilized “best-in-class immersive design and technology,” and the result was an experience that felt more like stepping into the films than walking through a traditional exhibit. Visitors’ personalized journeys were enhanced by digital touchscreens, audio guides, and even augmented reality features that brought the magic to life in new ways. This innovative approach made it possible for each guest to have a unique experience tailored to their choices and interactions within the exhibition.
As the exhibition came to a close in September, the organizers took to their website to thank the people of Munich for their enthusiasm and participation. “Thank you, Munich!” they wrote, expressing their gratitude for the city’s warm reception of the magical experience. For those who missed out, hope remains—the exhibition continues its global tour, with stops in São Paulo, Macao, Boston, and Madrid. The German premiere of Harry Potter:
The Exhibition was a remarkable success, showcasing how immersive technology can deepen our connection to beloved stories. Visitors didn’t just see the magic—they lived it. As the exhibition moves on to its next destinations, fans around the world can look forward to experiencing the wonder and excitement that only the wizarding world can provide. For those still under the spell of the Munich exhibition, the magic continues through shared photos, merchandise, and memories. And with a new Harry Potter series on the way, the allure of this world is far from fading—if anything, it’s growing stronger.
