Harry Potter birthday party scheduled for July 30

Harry Potter, it is almost your birthday. And what a party it will be! Maricopa’s children will be able to celebrate the birthday of the beloved character from J.K. Rowling‘s books. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 30, from 8 to 10 a.m. at Rotary Park, in front of the library.

The city’s Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department in partnership with the Friends of the Library will provide the fun, food and games. Century 21 All-Star Realty is the contributing sponsor for the event. Several of their team members will be on hand to assist with the various activities.

The morning’s events will begin with a costume parade. Prizes will be awarded for the best Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. Another prize category will include all other characters from the Harry Potter books. Costume contest participants should pre-register by email.

Four teams will play two matches of a land-based, modified Quidditch game. The winners of those two contests will meet for the grand championship game. Broomstick races will provide competition for younger children.

Craft activities will be available all morning plus magic provided by Gabriel Bueras. A marionette show, written and produced by the summer library program’s Teen Café members (ages 13 through 16), will delight partygoers.

A copy of the sixth and latest J. K. Rowling novel, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, will go to the winner of the morning’s raffle.

Matt Baker, son of Lisa and Steve Baker, displays one of the Harry Potter books available at the library. Little sister Faith looks on.

No party would be complete without refreshments. Beverages and, of course, a birthday cake will be provided.

Everyone is welcome to attend Harry Potter’s birthday celebration. Children, however, must be accompanied by an adult.

If you are interested in making a donation for the party or volunteering to help with the event, please contact the Friends of the Library by email.

The Friends will hold a Meet and Greet at the library on Saturday, July 9, from 9-10 a.m. to welcome potential new members, who will receive a free T-shirt. Coffee and bagels will be served.