About Wizarding Day
From humble beginnings…
Two Potter fans, one idea, and a quiet corner of the Peak District that has never been quite the same since.
Our story
How a good idea snowballed
Bill and Sally-Anne’s idea for a day of wizarding in 2018 grew into a huge multi-year project. It started simply: promote the town, support local charities and good causes, and give wizarding fans a place to celebrate their favourite fantasy universe.
The more Bill and Sally-Anne talked to their friends and local organisations, the more enthusiasm, delight and ideas came back. You could say things snowballed somewhat.
Nobody was ready for the many thousands of visitors who arrived. On an ordinary day in late October 2018, Wirksworth turned into a very magical place. More than 7,000 people, mostly families, joined in the activities and games arranged by local charities, organisations and businesses. Most of the town took part in one way or another, and plenty of residents got into the spirit in magical costume.
Every Wizarding Day so far
Seven days of magic, and counting
- 20187,000 fans
- 2019
- 2022
- 2023
- 2024
- 2025
- 202619 activities
- 2027Sun 3 October
The Chief Enchanteers
A big day, made by a small team
Wizarding Day is a big event for Wirksworth, but it is planned and run by a small team of dedicated volunteers.
Bill Bevan
Supreme Mugwump
Ideas, inspiration, perspiration, contacts, and general head of the gang.
Sally-Anne Swindell
Magical Stewardess of Commerce
Trader relations, good cheer, and more contacts.
Jo Metcalf
Mistress of the Scrolls
Social media, marketing and planning. Generally the organised one.
Alice Counsell
Sorceress of Snapshots & Shenanigans
Social media, organiser and communicator.
Stuart Combellack
Magister of Means & Messengers
Website, fundraising and volunteer support.
Jill Hodgkinson
Warden of the Willing Wands
Volunteer manager.
Amanda Combellack
Tea & Tattle Witch
Volunteer support.
Sarah Swindell
Custodian of Curious Crafts
Organiser of the Magical Maker’s Cavern.
The souvenir programme
Read all about it
Every year the Wizarding Day Times is printed with all the events and a souvenir map of the venues. Pick one up at the Info Stall on the day.
It is also where the town’s businesses advertise in support of the day, which helps pay for it.
The Conjuring Crew
Up to 25 volunteers on the day
In the run-up to the event and on the day itself, a team of up to 25 volunteers helps visitors reach the activities, gives out information and keeps the day running smoothly. Wizarding Day would not be possible without these dedicated witches and wizards.