HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Herrick District Library is hosting a Winter Yule Ball for teen Potterheads, ages 12-18, set for 5:30 to 8 p.m., Dec. 27, 2018.
“It’s a night where you can nerd-out over Harry Potter with your friends,” HDL librarian AmandaHeidema said.
The evening will include a deejay and dancing, Harry Potter-themed snacks, giveaways, a photoboothwith props and Potter-themed crafts. The library’s lower level will be decked out in Harry Potter-style.Registration for the after-hours event opens Dec. 13 at herrickdl.org/event. The Winter Yule Ball is forteens 12 to 18 years old. Teens can also call 616-355-3100 to register. A permission slip is required and can be printed from the HDL website. The permission slip can be turned in ahead of time or at event check-in.
J.K. Rowling’s first Harry Potter book was originally published in England in June 1997. The series has remained popular with readers of all ages for more than 20 years.
“The characters all have heart,” Heidema said. “Harry Potter’s a little bit of an underdog. Harry Potter, at its core, is about friendship, about doing what you feel is right and about hope. For many of us, as the characters grew up, we grew up right alongside them. And who doesn’t want a little bit of magic in their own world?”
The library is encouraging teen attendees to dress up in costumes or formalwear.
“Yes! Absolutely dress up as a character from the books, but don’t feel like you can’t be your owncharacter, too,” Heidema said. “Wear formalwear or your Harry Potter robes or come as you are.There’s no requirement; the only requirement is that you love Harry Potter and you want to have fun.”
It’s free, but space is limited to the first 100 who register. Registration starts on Dec. 13.
Snape, Dobby and Sirius Black will be there, according to the librarians.
Doors for the ball open at 5:30 p.m., but it’s a short-entry window, because the library closes at 6 p.m. Outside doors will be locked as the party gets underway.
Herrick District Library is at 300 S. River Ave. in Holland. For details, call 616-355-3100 or visit herrickdl.org. All HDL events are free.
