There’s just something about the Harry Potter universe that has really struck a chord with people. The magical world is full of whimsy, but also feels so grounded in reality that it’s easy to dream of receiving your own letter via owl. One of the very best parts of the books and movies were the winter holiday meals that were so extravagant and amazing that even the wizards were enchanted. And the Yule Ball, which took place in conjunction with the Tri-Wizard Tournament in The Goblet of Fire, was a particularly over-the-top holiday celebration. We here in Muggle land can’t exactly wrangle ourselves an invitation to the Great Hall in Hogwarts at Christmas, so folks here in Milwaukee have created the next best thing.
Turner Hall Ballroom is on the National Historic Register and its soaring ceilings, wood beams and balconies are fairly easy to imagine as a grand hall inside a Wizarding school. The folks at Oak and Shield Pub have taken over the throwing of this massive holiday event and they do a spectacular job dressing up the space and making you feel like you've been transported to another world.
The Yule Ball is so popular that there are now two nights of this now yearly event. This year, you can show of your House colors on either January 11 or 12. General admission is just $25, though this is an event for adult wizards only. The little ones have to be left home with a house elf.
There are VIP options as well as the chance to take a waltz lesson before the doors open so you're prepared for the Champions Waltz that takes place later in the evening.
And while the ballroom itself is practically perfect in every way as it's transformed for the Yule Ball, it's the attendees that really put the final flourish. You'll be able to pick out housemates immediately as folks come dressed to represent Slytherin, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Gryffindor.
What Yule Ball would be complete without attendees from Durmstrang and Beauxbatons. You'll find folks in all kinds of fancy dress, so start planning your ensemble now. The flowing robes, stunning cosplay and fancy dresses are what really make the Yule Ball so fabulous.
This Yule Ball is such a good time and so popular it had to expand to a second night, so you know it's wonderful. From treats by Honeydukes to wonderous decor, the Yule Ball is perfect down to the last detail. It's the perfect place to have fun, unwind and indulge in a bit of adult whimsy, something we grown ups are usually far too stuffy for.
You simply cannot miss this whimsical, magical, wonderful event that celebrates all things Harry Potter and lets party-goers pretend they're wizards for just a bit longer.
There are two nights of Yule Ball fun at Turner Ballroom in Milwaukee, which is located at 1040 Vel R. Phillips Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203. To learn more about the Yule Ball and to purchase tickets, check out the Turner Ballroom website here.
General admission tickets are $25. There’s a $50 add-on alcohol package or a $65 VIP ticket option. There’s also a $10 waltzing class before the doors open for those who’d like to attend.
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