South Austin home offers ‘Harry Potter’ experience

AUSTIN, Texas — For those who’re in search of one thing magical to see this Halloween, look no additional than Diagon Alley ATX. For years, Austinite Joel Tempo has been remodeling his South Austin residence into the wizarding world of “Harry Potter.”

“One 12 months, we determined to perform a little ‘Harry Potter’ decorations for Halloween. However then my spouse was recognized with most cancers and to cheer her up, I made a decision to type of go a bit of bit nuts for the decorations that took off,” Tempo mentioned. “And it kind of simply spun uncontrolled ever since.”

Now 1000’s flock to his home annually to see recreations of a few of their favourite locations within the “Harry Potter” universe. Tempo mentioned in years previous, individuals have waited hours in line simply to stroll up and see it. On particular events, the home additionally offers out particular treats, like butterbeer ice cream.

Placing collectively this complete world doesn’t come with out onerous work. Tempo mentioned this 12 months, building for the undertaking began again in April, when he started engaged on the brand new and improved Hogwarts Specific.

Additionally new this 12 months is his re-creation of the Leaky Cauldron, open on choose nights, and the Owlery constructing within the Hogwarts Fort complicated.

Tempo mentioned some pals assist him put collectively the shows sometimes, however 95% of the time, he is the one one behind the undertaking. A big majority of the decorations, he mentioned, are made fully out of pink foam.

However the festivities don’t simply cease at Halloween. This “Harry Potter” world stays up all the best way till January. In just some weeks, the show can be was a Christmas-themed “Harry Potter” world.

“We’ll have a Xmas Ball theme and all of the lights, and the Christmas timber and the music exhibits and all of that,” Tempo mentioned. “It’ll be phenomenal.”

Whereas the decorations are enjoyable, the funds additionally assist help kids within the Austin space.

“After my spouse recovered, we had a bunch of, you recognize, household, pals and folks within the neighborhood need us to proceed it. And we determined to make use of it for a superb trigger and begin elevating cash for sure charities that we help,” Tempo mentioned.

For those who’re serious about donating, you’ll be able to Venmo @DiagonAlleyATX. The cash will go in direction of three charities: Foster Angels of Central Texas, Selection Texas and the ZACH Theatre.

Diagon Alley ATX is positioned within the Classic Place neighborhood in Circle C. The closest cross streets are Slaughter Lane and Bungalow, and Tempo mentioned when you get there, you’ll be able to’t miss it.

For extra data on Diagon Alley ATX and to maintain up to date with the constructing course of, you’ll be able to go to their Fb web page.