It was cool enough being able to celebrate Christmas at Hogwarts last year, but a J.K. Rowling-approved themed plane ride? That's on another level. To celebrate Friday's release of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Pottermore notes, Virgin Atlantic teamed up with Warner Bros. and Magic FM to hold the competition of a lifetime for muggles everywhere. What did these lucky contestants win? Only a trip to New York on a Fantastic Beasts-themed plane ride. No big deal. Kidding! Huge deal. Winners spent three days in NYC, the location where we'll be watching Newt Scamander, played by Eddie Redmayne, live out his anticipated adventures.
Although you probably weren't one of the few on the plane, we'll help you live vicariously through those that were. First things first; guests were greeted with their very own wand (because of course) and an ‘I Want To Be a Wizard' shirt. So jealous.
Anyone else hoping to find one of those on eBay right about now?
We aren't even talking about what happened on the plane yet, and we're already bummed for everyone who couldn't go. While waiting for the flight, guests were treated to a Fantastic Beasts VR session, which allowed users to poke around a realistic version of Newt's shed. Alright. Let's get to the most important part of the trip. Passengers were gifted with old-school (in the spirit of the '20s, when the film takes place) black and yellow scarves as they arrived at their seats. A far cry from the traditional blanket and scratchy pillow.
In addition to the wizard wear, fans experienced a wand-training workshop, taught by the actual Fantastic Beasts movement coach. Together Pottermore also says they learned spells like Lumos and Stupefy to name a few. Apparently, it looks like there was also free champagne at some point because we're sure being a muggle in a wizards world can be stressful at times. A great way to unwind if you don't have any Butterbeer on hand, you know? While a plane ride is one way to party before the release of the Fantastic Beasts, you still have plenty of time to find your own way to celebrate between now and its November 18 release.