REVIEW: Harry Potter Yule Ball Celebration in Houston, Texas

Have you ever dreamt of attending the Yule Ball?! Well, you're in luck! For the 1st time ever, the Yule Ball has been brought to life in the most magical way.

This past weekend I was invited to attend a press preview of the Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration in Houston, Texas. All content, and opinions are my own.

In this post I'll share my honest review, videos, accommodations, what to expect, and best tips for attending Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration.

What is The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration is a limited time official Wizarding World event offered in select cities across the world.

Co-created by Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment and Fever, “Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration” is a magical party with performers, dancing, photo ops, themed food and drink, and a Yule Ball Market for some light shopping.

This is an immersive experience is a 2 hour long,  indoor party.  Don’t worry, You don't need to know how to dance in order to partake in the experience and have fun.

When Does Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration Take Place?

November 18 through January 29, 2023. Sessions vary depending on the day of the week. The first session is 3:30pm, and the last session takes place at 9:30 pm. 

Where is The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

There are 4 Yule Ball Locations Worldwide:

• Houston, Texas

• Mexico City, Mexico

• Milan, Italy

• Montreal, Canada

Each of the 4  historic venue's honor the tradition of the Triwizard Tournament.

What To Expect at The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

Get ready to immerse yourself in an unique, and enchanting experience!

Brief overview of the event offerings:

• A beautiful dance floor

• You're guided by 2 Hosts and 4 Hogwarts House Representatives

• Yule Ball themed activities

• Harry Potter-Themed drinks. snacks and bottled Butterbeer

• Several performances by your 6 hosts

• Yule Ball Market Gift Shop

• Goblet of Fire 

• Fashion Show

• Multiple Photo opportunities 

• Hogwarts Castle ice sculpture

• Yule Ball Trivia Trail

  • This is a fun scavenger hunt with TriWizard trivia questions hidden throughout the venue. Once completed, you get a digital download prize. 

Check-in is located outside, under a white tent. Depending on what time you arrive, you'll queue up in the line based off your type of Yule Ball ticket. You'll just provide your QR code, and for me-- They asked to see an ID. 

After checking in, take a moment to soak in the Yule Ball entrance.  I got emotional hearing the Harry Potter  music outside. If you get to the Yule Ball early, early, you can knock out your cute photos right here without any Muggles going in and out.

Once inside, there's immediately a Yule Ball photo op. They had an employee stationed here to help take your photos.  You'll see the coat check on your right, and 1 of 3 bar areas on your left.

You’re given a Order of events program that I saved as a souvenir. On the back of the Order of Events card, there's a breakdown of where everything is located inside the Yule Ball.

I think they did an amazing  job with decorating the lobby and ballroom. It evokes the Great Hall we all love so much from the Harry Potter books and movies.  Silver draping, Christmas garland, lots of candles, and the emotional music create a magical escape to Hogwarts.

Yule Ball Order of Events

Show Start

The ball begins with the 2 hosts and 4 Hogwarts house representatives introducing themselves.

Welcome Dances and a Short Explanation of The Evening

Free Roam for dancing, hors d'oeuvres, shopping & photo-ops

During this free time, you can grab a bit to eat, take cute photos, grab a cocktail, talk with the performers, etc. This is when I took the opportunity to grab a drink from the front bar and explore the upstairs, while most headed to the back to get food.

This could be a great time to check out the back patio, as this Yule Ball venue has a Hogwarts Castle ice sculpture.

Some of the other Photo Ops

Champions Waltz

Best House Dance-Off

Who knew Potterhead's could get DOWN WITH IT!? If you’re and introvert like me, this was your cue to head up stairs and people watch this portion of the Yule Ball.

Fashion Parade

This experience is completely optional. If you don’t want to take your turn down the wizard runway, don’t sweat it! You'll strut your stuff upstairs before entering the ball room for everyone to admire your outfit.

Freestyle Dancing

Combination of the most recent hit music like Harry Styles, The Weeknd, etc. There's of course iconic Harry Potter music scores, too. I loved seeing our hosts party like wizard rockstars!

Goodnights

TriWizard Champions are chosen from the Goblet of Fire, The hosts give an emotional farewells, and there's an enchanted snowfall!!!

Is The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration A Permanent Event?

Sadly, no. You can experience Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration through January 29th, 2023. Hopefully future locations and dates  are announced soon! 

Is There Food Food & Drink at The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

Yes, but it's not a sit down, full meal. Instead, there's light h'orderves, a few small desserts, bottled Butterbeer, Harry Potter themed cocktails and mocktails. Vegetarian, vegan, and GF options were available. 

These items are all for an additional fee, and are not included in your Yule Ball ticket. 

You’ll also see various seating/lounge areas on both the first, and second floors for you to sit and snack, or enjoy your drink. I didn't have any issues with finding a spot to sit.

3 dedicated bar areas are located on the first floor. Cash and card are accepted. The bartenders were AMAZING! The Staff is very knowledgeable on describing the flavor profiles of the Hogwarts House themed cocktails,  and seemed to really enjoy helping you decide.

There IS Butterbeer, but it’s not like the versions sold at Universal Orlando, or Universal Studios Hollywood.

You won't see frozen or hot Butterbeer with the sweet creamy topping on top. Instead, it's the Bottled Butterbeer that's offered at locations like, Harry Potter New York, and the Warner Brothers  Studio Tour in London. 

Prices for Food and Drink at The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

Yule Ball Celebration Beverages:

Hogwarts House themed drinks are the available at an additional cost, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.  

• Butterbeer: $8.00

• Cocktails: $14.00

• Mocktails: $10.00

• Bottled Water: $4.00

• Soda: $4.00

Cocktails

The Sword of Godric Gryffindor

•  $14.00 

• Bourbon, Raspberry Puree, honey Splash of Grenadine, Lemon Juice. Soda

• The raspberry paired with the warming coziness of the bourbon helps balance this drink out. Not too sweet at all. This one was Super strong to me alcohol wise.

The Helga Hufflepuff Golden Cup

• $14.00 

• Gin, apricot liqueur, splash of yellow chartreuse, lemon juice, soda     

• This cocktail had a burst of herbal flavor that paired nicely with the gin. The chartreuse wasn’t overpowering sweet at all

The Diadem of Rowena Ravenclaw

• $14.00

• Vodka, Blue Curacao, Pineapple Juice, Coconut Water

• My favorite cocktail at the Yule Ball.  Fruity and refreshing. Not going to lie, the glass made me feel fancy like an episode of Sex and The City, LOL.

The Locket of Salazar Slytherin

• $14.00

• Tequila, Elderflower Liqueur, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Splash of Soda, Fang Bile

• Light and refreshing. The Fang Bite wasn't overpowering.  My second favorite out of all 4 themed cocktails

Yule Ball Food:

Cornish Pasties

• $5.00

• Forbidden Forrest vegetable

• Large portion. Size looked comparable to the ones sold at Universal Orlando!

3 Herbology Noshes

• $6.00

• Chicken Salad

• Cucumber

• Red Pepper Hummus

These were just okay in my opinion. Taste wise, these sandwiches are similar to what you’d get at a bridal shower, luncheon, etc. The Red Pepper Hummus was my favorite out of the three.

3 Duck Confit Tartlets

• $9.00

• with Apple Butter & Caramelized Onions

These were flaky and savory. The saltiness of the duck paired with the sweetness of the caramelized onions came together nicely.  Lots of flavor.  Again, I'm beating a dead horse, but expensive in my opinion for the portion size. Obviously not very filling, but an okay snack.

3 Gamekeeper's Delight

• $14.00

• Applewood Scented Beef Wellington

Yule Ball Celebration Desserts:

• Assorted Christmas Truffles- $3.00

• Gingerbread Scones- $5.00

I skipped these 2 desserts as they were very expensive, and they were not  treats I wouldn’t be able to find at my local grocery store.

Dark Chocolate Roasted Chestnut Pots De Creme

• $5.00

• These are rich and creamy with a deeply chocolatey taste and texture. Essentially a fancy chocolate pudding. 

  This was the only dessert I tried, and it was banging! I literally scrapped out every drop, and could’ve easily had 3 or 4.

Eggnog Tiramisu

• $5.00 

Another item I skipped, but talking to other guests, it tasted okay.

Are There Exclusive Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration Souvenirs?

The only Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration specific souvenir I saw was a clear, plastic mug. 

I normally always grab a souvenir mug when it comes to any Harry Potter theme park or event, but this one was just so basic , I sadly passed on it. Had it been glass, I would’ve absolutely bought it!

Some of the Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration merchandise:

I noticed a lot of similar items that are at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forrest Experience. I wasn't able to stop and check the prices for a lot during the Yule Ball, but I did jot down some of the big ticket souvenir items.

• Plushies

  • Hedwig: $24.00

• Hogwarts House Mascot & Cushion: $48.00

• Adult Hogwarts Robes: $90.00

• Kids Hogwarts Robes: $90.00

• Hogwarts House deluxe scarf & pompom beanie set: $35.00

• Hogwarts House scarves

• Hogwarts sweatshirts

• Adult Socks: $20.00

• Wands: Starting at $40.00

• Christmas Stockings: $27.00

• Christmas Bauble Ornament: $23.00

• Honeydukes scrunchies

• Harry Potter jewelry 

• Stationary + Notebooks

• Harry Potter replicas

Lot’s more merchandise shown in these Yule Ball Market videos.

Do a quick google search of the Noble Collection items you're interested in. Most of the items are online cheaper.

Is The Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration A Family Friendly Event?

Yes! Those 12 years and older are permitted to attend the Yule Ball. All guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

My Overall Yule Ball Review

It’s important to note all reviews will differ based on the Yule Ball location.

Check in was painless, and the event was well organized and ran super smooth. 

The premium ticket is absolutely worth it. That extra 1/2 hour to soak in the ambiance is incredible. It also takes a lot of the anxiety away that you'll run out of time to see and experience everything you want to.

I got the chills as soon as I walked in and heard the music. The staff was welcoming, attentive, and were genuinely excited to be there. What I loved about the Yule Ball the most was that even If you didn't want to dance the whole time, there was always something to see or do.  

The overall venue atmosphere was straight out of the Harry Potter series! I truly felt like I was at Hogwarts during the TriWizard Tournament. 

From the music, snow, and  hearing the sound of the Hogwarts Tower clock going off causing the lights to change colors, it was impressive.

I do wish there was more food offerings, and that the food they had was a little  better. Don't get me wrong, the food wasn't like, "oh my god this is disgusting." It was more....just boring, and really over priced for the small portion sizes.

I regret not eating a more substantial meal beforehand.

The Hogwarts House themed cocktails did help make up for the dissapointing food. I appreciated that the drinks were all the way full, and the amount of alcohol was very present as opposed to other events, where it’s mainly just sugar and tiny amount of alcohol.

Moving onto the performers.

The hosts really make or break the experience in my opinion. The performers we had were absolutely incredible at providing an immersive experience!

Their chemistry was organic, their banter was spot on in terms of representing their Hogwarts house and playfully picking on one another. They were the bomb at hyping up & engaging the crowd!

The entire Yule Ball felt Inclusive for ALL. The hosts and house representatives went out of their way to make you feel seen, and special. They could read your energy and knew if you needed a little push to join in on the dancing, but as the same time they were respectful to those wanting to watch from the sidelines.

The crowds energy absolutely shapes your experience too. My group was a hoot, & got jiggy with it Harry Potter style. There was lots of cheering, strutting your stuff and just being friendly with complete strangers.

As someone who went alone, I didn’t feel invisible or awkward. This is a huge bonus for us introverts, lol.

For sure dress up and fully buy into the experience. Bust out the ball gown, or maybe you've created a beautiful cosplay and haven't had the opportunity to wear it yet! You won't have to sweat your butt off in it at Universal Orlando that's for sure...lol.

I also think the mindset you have going into this event will play a big part in your experience. If you go in with the mindset of roll playing like you're literally at Hogwarts attending the Yule Ball, You'll have the best time that way.

Favorite Parts During Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

• All the people watching as introvert

• Casting Lumos all together

• The Hogwarts house cocktails

• HEARING THE WEEKND BEING PLAYED AT THE YULE BALL—OMG!

• Putting my name into the Goblet of Fire

• Charles, one of the hosts I am fully obsessed with! 

How The Yule Ball in Houston Could Improve

• An actual sit down dinner

• Longer event

• More event specific merchandise other than the plastic mug 

• Although I appreciated the Hogwarts Castle ice sculpture, it was a missed opportunity not having the iconic Yule Ball ice sculpture

• I think it would’ve been cool if we had a physical invitation mailed to us beforehand, or given to us at the end as a little memento

How Much Does Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration Cost?

Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration ticket prices depend on what day, time slot, and month you want to visit. Weekday tickets are cheaper.

There’s 2 types of Yule Ball Admission Tickets:

1️⃣ Standard: $59.00-$65.00

• Just includes entry into the event

2️⃣ Premium: $100.00 -$104.00

• Includes “priority access entry"

• Complimentary drink  ($14.00 value)

• Hogwarts House themed gift below ($50.00 value)

  • Gifts may vary. I got a Slytherin ornament and deluxe scarf + beanie set

  • I would’ve saved the bag if I had room in my carry on!

Young adult ticket (ages 12 to 17) for $49 or a premium young adult pack for $90. 00.

Parking is $5.00, per vehicle. Ride-share is encouraged, as there's limited parking available.

How Do You Buy Tickets For Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

To purchase tickets for Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration, you’ll need to buy them through the partnered event company called Fever.

They have a website and an app where you can buy your ticket. 

Note- Several dates for the Houston location are already booked. Check all the way through January 29th,  as January is currently showing the most availability.

Once you’ve paid via the Fever app/website, your ticket will be emailed to you as a digital copy. 

You will have the option to add to you Apple Wallet and it’ll also be stored on on the Fever app/website. It's also sent via email.

Hotels Near Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration in Houston, Texas

Although I was able to skip staying over night in Houston, these were hotels I found close to the event with good reviews when budgeting everything out.

• Hyatt Regency Houston/Galleria

  • 1.3 miles, 5 min drive to venue

  • Rates vary and start at $125.00 per night

  • Average $169.00

• Courtyard by Marriott Houston by The Galleria

  • 1 miles, 4 min drive to venue

  • Rates vary and start at $137.00

  • Average $175.00

• Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston Near the Galleria

  • 1.3 miles, 5 min drive to venue

  • Rates vary and start at $92.00

  • Average $159.00

  • Free Breakfast

  • On property restaurant 

• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Houston by the Galleria

  • 1 mile, 4 min drive to venue

  • Rates vary and start at $78.00

  • Average $98.00

Tips For Attending Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration in Houston, Texas

• If driving, give yourself a buffer for getting lost + traffic

• The actual venue seemed to be on a random back street, don’t panic. Ha! I had to double check the address when the Uber driver pulled up because I thought for sure it wasn’t the right location.

• Dress fancy or cosplay it up!

• Bring any wand you to take part in the different activities. If you don't have one, please don't feel the need to buy one just for this event.

• Arrive early—Aleast 15 minutes

• Eat a full meal beforehand 

  • Offerings are pricey h'orderves & small desserts.  Save you. money. The food was underwhelming

• if you’re looking for a free souvenir, take one of the Order of Events cards home!

• Keep track of the time. It’s only 2 hours, & it flew by. 

• I would knock out a lot of the photo's you want at the start of the event. The staff were pretty quick to usher us out after the Yule Ball ended.

• Buy drinks from the bar later on in the event (no wait)

• The Bars and Yule Ball Market close 15-20 minutes before the end of your session 

Is Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration Worth It?

YES! I would definitely say the experience provided is worth the actual cost of the ticket. The theming is really well done. There are a ton of tiny details that really show a lot of thought, and effort went into bringing the Yule Ball Celebration to life. 

The Yule ball is a great family friendly Harry Potter option, making it a memorable night for families, friends, and couples.

It can be an excellent “Harry Potter” fix for those who can’t make it back to the WWoHP at Universal  Studios anytime soon. I would just price match what it'd cost to attend this experience (ticket, flight, Uber's, hotel) to what it would cost you for x amount of nights at Universal Orlando or Hollywood.

The Yule Ball Celebration is a fun new way to enjoy Harry Potter and the Wizarding World. it’s a unique way to connect with other Potterhead's in an intimate crowd setting

That being said, as much as I would love for all Potterhead's to experience this event, It's hard for me to justify a potentially expensive flight and non  budget friendly hotel for a 2 hour Harry Potter experience. 

If you’re within driving distance to Houston, or you're able to find a cheap flight and hotel for the night…. absolutely don't skip the Harry Potter Yule Ball Celebration.!

If you can find a same day in and out flight home for a reasonable price, it’s a no brainer.

Things To Consider If You’re Located Far From Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebation

With how short the actual Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration is, and given that it’s in an area where there's not a lot of other Harry Potter things to do, I'd do your homework on other things to do in the area to make the trip worth It. 

To save the most money, I always try to find a same day return flight. That way, I don't have to pay for a hotel room. 

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Forrest Experience was much later, so for that event I did have to get a hotel

With the Yule Ball being offered  in the late afternoon/early evening,  I personally was able to find a same day flight home for this one. I ended up booking an early morning flight into Houston, and a late night return flight home. 

My non-stop round trip flight via Spirit was $121.00

More and more airlines are now charging for a carry-on. Factor that into your budget.  I booked the cheapest flight which didn’t allow for a free carry-on. Also don't be afraid to price match 2, 1 way tickets versus a round trip. Sometimes you can find better flight times while saving money.

Uber to and from the airport was roughly $45ish each way for me. Due to my flight needs, I had no other choice but to fly into IAH.

if you asked me to choose between doing the Yule Ball Celebration or the Harry Potter Forbidden Forrest Experience, I would choose the Forbidden Forrest.

For me, I got more emotional at the Forbidden Forrest. All the lights, sounds, hearing Umbridge, Filch, the Golden Trio, and seeing Hagrid, the unicorn and the Centaur’s just pulled at my heartstrings more.

Had the Yule Ball been longer and included a sit down dinner, I might choose the Yule Ball.

FAQ: Attending Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

Here’s information and answers to frequently asked questions about ther Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

Are tickets for Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration still available?

• A lot of dates in December are sold out, but keep checking the website as time-slots may reopen. There is plenty of availability in January.

Is there an age requirement for Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

•  12 and up

Is there a parking fee?

• Yes. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle.

Is There a Dress Code?

• There is no dress code for the event but you can wear your cosplay outfit, or go all out in a ball gown! 

Do You Need a Wand for Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration?

• Nope! Wands are absolutely not needed to enjoy this event.  However, bringing one adds to the immersive experience. Particularly during a few dances + group experiences.

If you’re a big Harry Potter fan, this is one of those events worthy of being on your HP bucket list.

Disclosure:

I was invited to attend the press preview of Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration in Houston, Texas for the purpose of this review across my social media channels. All opinions are my own.