Harry Potter Party in Grass Valley, Califorinia

Fans around the world are counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds until Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is released. Everyone is different about the way they are celebrating the release of the seventh and final installment of the boy wizard, Harry Potter. Bookstores, libraries, and even retail stores such as Walmart are all planning for the biggest night in Harry Potter history.

From the people I have spoken to regarding Harry Potter parties, most of them are attending parties at stores like Barnes and Noble. For me, this is sadly my first and last Midnight Magic party, since I came into the Harry Potter fandom quite late. For book five, we were away when it was released and I asked for it for my birthday. For book six, someone bought it for me as a birthday present as well. But book seven is different, it's special, because it's the final book in the series. So I decided I would do it right this time.

While most fans are opting for buying the books from the larger chains, one small bookstore in Grass Valley, California, named The Book Seller, has been preparing itself for the biggest Harry Potter bash around. One of my online friends, Sunny, works there and she has been at the forefront of the preparations ever since January when J. K. Rowling announced the release date.

How can a small bookstore compete with the larger chain stores? You would be surprised!

First of all, when fans come to the store, they will see the sign Department Of Mysteries over the regular 'The Book Seller' sign. Though the doors will not open until midnight, beginning around 10pm there will be food (Cauldron Cakes, Pumpkin Pasties, Veggie Wands, and water) and face painting outside the store.