A Harry Potter festival in Barcelona? You can't be Sirius

On November 23 and 24, Barcelona university's historic building became a Catalan version of Hogwarts magic school

Barcelona Witch Market, Catalonia's own Harry Potter fair (by Barcelona Witch Market)
Barcelona Witch Market, Catalonia's own Harry Potter fair (by Barcelona Witch Market) / ACN

ACN | Barcelona

November 22, 2019 07:20 PM

On the weekend of November 23 and 24, Barcelona pays tribute to a book and film franchise whose magical storylines have captivated the world: J K Rowling's Harry Potter series.

This weekend, the University of Barcelona's historic building is the only place for Potter fans. The annual Witch Market is held for a fourth year in a row.

In the market stalls, aspiring wizards and witches are able to find everything they need, from magic potions, wands and tunics, including the famous Butterbeer from the books.

Based around Rowling's imaginary world, for a couple of days the event turns the old university building into a Catalan version of Hogwarts school.

A darker tone to 2019 edition

This year's event is inspired by the fourth book in the series, 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,' and has a darker theme than in previous editions.

Over the two days, the university's corridors and rooms are transformed, offering a variety of Potter-related activities, from classes for mixing potions to a cosplay contest.

On Saturday, there was a catwalk showing off the latest designs in witches' fashion, as well as talks, exhibitions, and an escape game based on the fictional world of magic.

Meanwhile, at the end of each day, there was a fund-raising raffle with prizes contributed by the exhibitors taking part in the event, as well as its organizers and sponsors.