The Franklin Institute has announced an opening date of February 18, 2022 for the much-anticipated “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” to make its world premiere, and ticket sales are now open! While we still have a few months to wait for this epic, immersive exhibit, we got all the details from the Franklin Insitute, plus details about how you can win tickets, museum membership, and more magical prizes!

“This exhibition will be unlike any other Wizarding World touring exhibition. The inclusion of technology, attention to detail and integration of magical touches created by our partners at Imagine Exhibitions is truly unique,” said Peter van Roden, Senior Vice President of Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment. “We are elated to be launching the world tour at the Franklin Institute and for fans to be able to have another way to experience the Wizarding World.”

“Harry Potter: The Exhibition” will give visitors an up-close look at authentic props and original costumes from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, reveal the artistry behind the movies, and give fans an opportunity to engage with innovative, magical environments and installations in new ways.

You’ll begin at King’s Cross Station, get sorted into your house, select your wand, and begin your personalized journey! The exhibit will be divided into 10 distinct immersive areas, from Hogwarts to the Forbidden Forest and beyond. Throughout the experience, a combination of technology and design elements honor the iconic moments, characters, and settings from Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts.

Before the exhibit opens, you can get a head start on the magic, if you can capture the Golden Snitch! Interactive photo-op stations will appear throughout the region, including a 13-foot illuminated Hogwarts castle, broom to sit and pose on, and a giant Golden Snitch pedestal.

While these will make for some fun photos, you’ll have the chance to win much more. Each station has a QR code– scan it to open up the interactive “Seek the Golden Snitch” experience using augmented reality on your phone. Play, and you’ll be entered to win the grand prize: a two-night hotel stay in Philly, four tickets to be the first to see the Harry Potter exhibit, a family membership to the Franklin Insitute, Harry Potter swag, and $500 cash prize!

The Hogwarts photo op station will be featured through November 10 at the Franklin Institute (in the atrium), and upcoming Golden Snitch locations will be:

• Franklin Institute (Philly)
• Independence Visitor Center (Philly)
• Peddler’s Village (New Hope)
• The Promenade at Sagemore (Marlton, NJ)

“Harry Potter: The Exhibition” opens February 18, 2022 at the Franklin Institute, located at 222 N. 20th Street in Philadelphia. Tickets are currently on sale, so be sure to buy in advance to get your desired timeslot! Daytime tickets include general museum admission and are $43 for adults, $41 for seniors and military, $39 for kids ages 3-11. Discounted evening tickets (from 5–8 pm) will be available for $30, with other museum areas closed. There will also be VIP tickets for $59, which include an immediate-access pass (valid for any timeslot on the date indicated at the time of purchase), exclusive lanyard, discounted audio tour, and photo op. Museum member tickets are $20 for daytime or evening.

Photograph by Laura Swartz.