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Diagon Alley opening date announced as July 8, 2014 for Universal Orlando Harry Potter expansion

in Entertainment, Theme Parks, Universal Orlando

Posted on by Ricky Brigante 13 Comments
The towering white dragon from Harry Potter looms menacingly over the Gringotts Bank at Diagon Alley in Universal Orlando, mouth agape and teeth bared, ready to thrill fans in true Wizarding World style.

Universal Orlando has announced the official opening date for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, which will officially open to the public on July 8, 2014.

Harry Potter stars James and Oliver Phelps, Evanna Lynch, and Matthew Lewis made the announcement alongside Thierry Coup and Bill Davis of Universal Orlando.

Universal Orlando team members stand proudly on stage as the iconic "Harry Potter Diagon Alley" sign shines on the big screen behind them, capturing the spellbinding excitement of one of the park's most beloved attractions.

During the presentation, creative director Thierry Coup also discussed all of the various attractions and entertainment that Diagon Alley has to offer and the cast shared a few thoughts about it as well.

Following the announcement, the press had a chance to talk with a few of the Harry Potter stars.

Video: Interview: Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) talks Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando

Video: Interview: James Phelps (Fred Weasley) talks Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando

Excited guests explore Universal Orlando’s Diagon Alley, snapping photos and chatting in front of Hogwarts-inspired arches and lush vines, fully immersed in the enchanting world of Harry Potter.

Tonight Universal Orlando will unveil the new area to VIPs, contest winners, and the media together with a special celebrity filled moment. We will be covering that first look followed by a closer look at all the Diagon Alley details throughout tomorrow.

After the the press event concludes tomorrow, there is a possibility of soft openings for guests to get in any time before the announced opening date but nothing is guaranteed until then.

More photos from the Diagon Alley grand opening announcement:
(Photos by Michael Gavin)

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