This past weekend brough the much-anticipated opening of a mystical new attraction in our area. Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience has come to Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Yorktown Heights. Prior to its public opening, I was fortunate enough to attend the media preview event with my family and what an evening it was! You should know that among the group of us attending we had all sides of fandom represented - from couldn't tell you a title, to an avid appreciator of the artistry, to a superfan who trick-or-treated as Hermoine for multiple, consecutive Halloweens. Each one of us took away something incredibly special from the event and I'm sure you will too whether it's your first HP foray or you speak fluent wizard.
Jump off the Taconic State Parkway at Exit 16 to be taken directly to the most accessible entrance. Amid the ample parking, attendants keeping traffic moving smoothly and safely. The event is well-timed with ticketed entry and guides are strategically positioned to pace the crowd, as well as to envelop you in the magic of the attractions and the storylines. There are opportunities for audience participation and innovation alongside the guides and the entirety of the wooded trail includes interactive, immersive experiences. In the beginning, the groups cast the spell to turn the lantern lights on. Further on, you can bow to a Hippogriff and see if it bows back to you - be sure to maintain eye contact! One of our favorite features was the wand battle (no contest there with my quick win!). We also enjoyed choosing a wand to summon our Patronus (wanted a rabbit, got a fox...) and getting a bit spooky with Aragog and the spiders (you can bypass that if spiders aren't for you!).
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There's a stopping point midway, where you can choose from a delicious pairing of sweet and savory meals. They are just the right size to provide an excuse to linger next to a lantern, but not too large as to slow you down from taking in the second half of the trail. Our foursome split down the middle with two orders of vegetarian pie and chocolate cupcakes, and two orders of steak and ale pie and a sugar cookie. It's one of the more difficult decisions to make and you'll also have to decide between a butter beer or hot cocoa (decorated with colored sprinkles from your house!).
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If you have any background in theater or production, you'll geek out a bit thinking through the undertaking that the lights, sounds, projections, and mechanics required to pull off an experience of this magnitude. And if you don't have that background, you'll be equally moved by the synergy of all the parts. The walk through the woods is hauntingly beautiful. The natural wonder of the forest is only enhanced by the smoky scenes that play out in front of you on your walk. In speaking with one of the staff members, we learned that his job is to scout forests around the county and around the world to find the perfect setting. The FDR opening was second only to Manchester this season, and will soon be followed by Virginia, and then Brussels. Equally important, is the mission to leave the spaces improved following the close of the show. In this case, the paths used were improved to be ADA accessible and will remain so for the future visitors to the park.
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Lifelong fan or wizarding newbie, you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who wouldn't enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience. We opted not to bring baby and toddler, but the trail was stroller friendly and heartier little ones than mine might very well enjoy the magic. There are lots of lights and sounds, and it's a dark nighttime walk in the woods - your judgment for what works for your child is best. Other recommendations include wearing shoes good for walking, as well as bundling for the fall season.
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Grab tickets today - the show runs from October 22nd - January. Children under 5 are free and group bundles are available.
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