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Here’s how to brew a potion in Old Town for Harry Potter’s birthday

By James Cullum
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Wizards and muggles are invited to a special tour in Old Town on Sunday (July 28).

In recognition of Harry Potter’s birthday, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (105-107 S. Fairfax Street) is hosting a magical tour and potion-making clinic.

Fans of J.K. Rowling’s books can learn about her inspirations in the muggle field of botanical science, and about fumigating pastiles, sweet marjoram and cuttle fish bone, among others.

“In honor of Harry Potter’s birthday, tour the Apothecary Museum to see the historic muggle herbology and potions referenced in the Harry Potter series and make your own potion,” according to the city.

The 45-minute event sells out quickly and is recommended for adults and kids eight years old and up. It will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. Tickets cost $15 per person, or $10 for Office of Historic Alexandria members.

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.