Hat's a magical idea! Treat for Harry Potter fans as Leeds launches month-long tribute

History of Magic Exhibition at Leeds Central Library.. a sorting hat at the exhibition..1st December 2017 ..Picture by Simon Hulme

Inspired by the British Library’s Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibit, the two-month-long showcase will include workshops, talks, storytelling and a number of special family-friendly events.

Fans will be invited to delve into divination, ponder the peculiarities of potions and discover more about the creatures and traditions of folklore and magic at the heart of J.K Rowling’s popular stories.

Activities will include a chance to create your own Sorting Hat, visit the ‘herbology’ rooms, follow a Harry Potter themed trail and take part in a wand-making workshop.

History of Magic Exhibition at Leeds Central Library..Rhian Isaac looks at the Historie of Four- Footed Beastes by Edward Topsell dated 1607..1st December 2017 ..Picture by Simon Hulme

Just like Diagon Alley, there will also be a range of stalls selling all types of magical wares.

The exhibition itself includes images of books, manuscripts and magical objects currently on view in the British Library’s own exhibition

As part of the wider display, Leeds and Yorkshire’s own connections to magic and folklore will also be explored, with images from the central library’s unique collections.

The exhibition coincides with the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first book in the series.

History of Magic Exhibition at Leeds Central Library..Rhian Isaac looks at the handbag which belonged to Agatha Christie, which was was petrified at Mother Shiptons Well, Knaresborough .1st December 2017 ..Picture by Simon Hulme

Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, said: “A whole generation has grown up with the Harry Potter books and been fascinated and inspired by the magical world created by JK Rowling.

“I am very excited therefore that Leeds Central Library is hosting this new exhibition, which will delve deeper into the some of the book’s inspirations, and also showcase the origins, history and local traditions of Leeds and Yorkshire.”

Roly Keating, chief executive of the British Library, added: “We are delighted to be working with 20 different public libraries across the UK to share our exhibition, Harry Potter: A History of Magic.

“We’ve championed what lies at the heart of the Harry Potter stories that resonates deeply with people across the country to achieve this.

“The rollout truly encapsulates the convening power of bringing local and national treasures together through the partners.”