Potterheads to apparate in Samford for double birthday celebration

Samford’s very own version of Diagon Alley, also known as The Store of Requirement, is set to celebrate a magical birthday this month which all witches, wizards and muggles are invited to attend.

Fans of the Harry Potter books and movies will have the opportunity to live out their fantasy of attending Hogwarts at the store’s 5^th birthday on Sunday, July 31.

But what makes this day even more special is it’s a double celebration, as July 31 also happens to be Harry Potter’s birthday!

This year, the Boy Who Lived and saved the wizarding world from the evil Lord Voldemort, will be turning 42.

Hannah Worthy from The Store of Requirement says this year’s celebrations will be the biggest and best one yet.

“Harry Potter will always be a timeless and classic story, which is why we chose to open on the same day as Harry’s birthday,” Hannah said.

“If you’re looking for a magical day out in beautiful Samford, this will be the place to be.

“We will have potion making, wand decorating, spell-making classes, market stalls and a Ford Anglia Show and Shine car event, which is the exact same car which Harry and Ron fly.

“There will also be Quidditch games in the park opposite our store, a scavenger hunt, and a band.”

Instore, fans of the franchise will also be able to stock up on lots of Harry Potter licensed merchandise, including robes, wands, books, and collectables, as well as try some of their homemade Butterbeer.

“Our store has been designed to give a magical experience to everyone who visits,” Hannah says.

“People come from all over to see our life-size Buckbeak, our three-headed dog fluffy and try on the Sorting Hat, which will determine which Hogwarts House they will be in.

“We like to market ourselves as a destination because coming out to Samford it a magical drive in itself and the town is so beautiful.”

All the festivities will be held from 10am-4pm.

“Best job in the world”

As a huge Harry Potter fan, Hannah says she has the best job in the world.

“I’m very lucky to have the job that I have because I get to talk to other enthusiasts about our love for Harry Potter,” Hannah says.

“I also have two full Harry Potter sleeves inked on my body, so that is always a big conversation starter.”

Hannah has also continued to read the books throughout her adult life, saying each time she reads them she takes away something different from the storylines.

“I’ve read the series 26 times, and each time I take away something different about the characters and the storyline.

“I do still cry each time when someone dies… it just hurts my heart.”

Hanna says her favourite character is Remus Lupin because “he is a very strong, fair and courageous character, and embodies the true spirit of Gryffindor, which is what I am”.

Where to find the Store of Requirement

This much-loved store can be found at 22 Station St, Samford Village.

The store is open every Wednesday through to Sunday from 10am-4pm.

You can also purchase items online from the website and keep up-to-date with all things Harry Potter related via Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Catch up on Harry’s adventures

Whether you are a long-time fan, or are new to the franchise, you can follow Harry’s adventures, alongside his best friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, by reading the books or watching the movies in the following order:

1) Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

2) Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

3) Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

4) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

5) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

6) Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

7) Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1

8) Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2