Oxford Street is set to be transformed into a Harry Potter-themed Christmas wonderland as part of a new collaboration with HBO Max. The West End shopping street will be given a magical makeover this festive season, with specially created illuminated designs inspired by the wizarding world appearing alongside its famous Christmas lights.
Partnership announced by New West End Company and HBO Max
The takeover has been announced by New West End Company and HBO Max and will bring a series of Harry Potter-themed celebrations and attractions to the street for shoppers, visitors and fans. The festive programme coincides with the launch of the new HBO Original series Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, as well as the opening of the UK’s largest official Harry Potter flagship shop.
Harry Potter Shop Oxford Street will open on November 4, giving fans the chance to explore the new store ahead of the Christmas celebrations. Dee Corsi, chief executive of New West End Company, said the partnership would be a “historic moment” for Oxford Street.
Unforgettable Christmas experience
“Bringing the world of Harry Potter to the street will create an unforgettable Christmas experience and showcase the West End at its very best,” she said. “It is an exciting opportunity for retailers and a magical moment for shoppers, visitors and fans alike.”
Further details about the Christmas programme, including the official light switch-on and the new Harry Potter-inspired designs, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
New series details
The new Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone series will follow Harry as he discovers the wizarding world after receiving his letter of admission to Hogwarts. The first season stars Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, alongside John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and Nick Frost as Hagrid.
The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, with Mark Mylod executive producing and directing multiple episodes. Oxford Street stretches 1.5 miles from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road and is home to more than 90 flagship stores.
The Harry Potter takeover will add another major attraction to the capital during what is expected to be one of the West End's busiest periods of the year.
