Muggles, witches, and wizards around the world know that September 1 is Back To Hogwarts day, and many chose to spend it at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.
There are few better places to be on this magical day because you can actually ride the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. Well, not the ones from the films but you can visit the ones created specifically for the theme parks.
Every year for the past handful of years, this is exactly what a Facebook group called the Central Florida Slug Club does. Members of this group meet up outside King’s Cross Station, greet each other warmly and take pictures, then they get in line so that they can be on the Hogwarts Express at 11pm.
Slug Club member Jacqui D. took beautiful pictures and was kind enough to let me share them here. Thank you, Jacqui!
Hogwarts crest shirt, trophy, and Hogwarts school books.
A conductor in front of the Hogwarts Express.
A Hogwarts Express conductor, ready to direct students to the train.
A Hogwarts Express employee talking to a Gryffindor who is eager to get to school.
Hedwig in her cage, waiting to get on the Hogwarts Express.
Molly Weasley helping Harry Potter find the entrance to Platform 9-3/4.
Dolores Umbridge heading to Hogwarts for her first year of teaching.
The Hogwarts Express leaving King’s Cross Station, on its way to Hogwarts.
A Slytherin witch walking though Hogsmeade.
John, a Hogsmeade employee.
The students finally arrive at the Hogwarts castle.
The Hogwarts castle is ready to begin classes for another year.
