Wizards and witches fly to Plum Community Center for Harry Potter-themed fundraiser

Wizards and witches of all ages flew to the Plum Community Center for its first Harry Potter-themed extravaganza.

The facility at 499 Center-New Texas Road was transformed into the fictional school Hogwarts for a major fundraiser Saturday, July 27.

About 90 people participated in Quidditch, attended divination and transfiguration classes among other wizardry activities, as well as dined on treats at Honeydukes’ Sweet Shop.

“We were delighted,” center executive director Karen Hochberg said. “It was a lot of fun. It was a nice family event. Carol Johnson, our board member, was amazingly creative.

“We had people tell us they went to very expensive Harry Potter events that were not as nice as ours because there were multiple workstations.”

“Harry Potter” is a series of fantasy novels written by British author J.K. Rowling.

The first book was released in 1997. The series spawned multiple movies, and the franchise is worth an estimated $25 billion.

Plum center visitors were given a Marauder’s Map, highlighting various activities, including visiting the Forbidden Forest and Eeylops Owl Emporium.

They also had a chance to win a wizards tournament and gift baskets.

Hermes, a short-eared owl from the Humane Animal Wildlife Center, guarded the emporium.

More than 20 volunteers contributed and the event raised about $1,200 toward center programs and bills.

Hochberg said she hopes to do more more events like Hogwarts, Honeydukes and Harry Potter.

“We have to have multiple small events because we can’t do big ticketed events here,” she said. “I hope to do three super bingos, a couple creative fundraisers and an annual appeal to the community to help us raise money.”

Call 412-795-2330 or go to plumcommunitycenter.com/events for more information about community center programs.