Facebook celebrates the 20th anniversary Of Harry Potter with a new feature

Harry Potter Wishlist

Yesterday was an important day for the millions of people around the world who grew up daydreaming about life at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (and to be honest, the millions of us who still do). It was the twentieth anniversary of the publication of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”—known to fans stateside by its US title, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”—the first book in J.K. Rowling’s iconic series that went on to include seven books, a blockbuster movie franchise, theme parks, and a follow-up Broadway play.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, Facebook has gifted users with a little bit of magic, social media-style. In a new Facebook Easter egg, when you type the words “Harry Potter” or the name of any Hogwarts House (Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin or Hufflepuff) into a Facebook comment or status update, not only will the word change to the color corresponding with that house, but a wand will appear at the bottom of your screen, triggering a cascade of confetti and lightning bolts.

Type “Ravenclaw pride!” in a comment, for example, and the word “Ravenclaw” will show up in brilliant blue, accompanied by a wand display that would make Ollivander proud.

Steph Auteri

It’s hard to believe that two whole decades have passed since JK Rowling introduced the world to Harry, Ron, Hermione, Dumbledore, Snape and countless other unforgettable characters and creatures. But then again, it’s even harder to believe there was a time when Harry Potter didn’t exist. Rowling acknowledged the anniversary by posting a sweet thank you note to fans on her Twitter account:

If you’re looking for other ways to celebrate this anniversary, we suggest whipping up some Polyjuice Potion and Butterbeer Cupcakes and cracking open your dog-eared copy of “The Sorcerer’s Stone” for a fifth or sixth re-read because, let’s face it: It gets better every time.

[h/t: Insider]

Entertainment, Movies & TV
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