(Credit: Discover Lansdale)
Madison Street is about to transform into Lansdale's version of Diagon Alley — minus the copyright issues.
The borough’s beloved First Friday series comes alive Sept. 5 with “The Wizarding World of Garry the Otter” — a tongue-in-cheek homage to a certain boy wizard theme that brings a wink and a wand to downtown’s monthly celebration of food, music, games and community.
For one enchanted evening, Main Street becomes a borough-built Diagon Alley, alive with music, color and a little mischief managed, as the event promises to enchant both muggles and Lansdale “Luggles” alike.
From 6 to 9 p.m., the streets will bustle with energy as Hootenanny Tweed headlines the Main Stage and DJ Tone Arm casts his spell of sound and conjures beats in Railroad Plaza.
This month’s spotlight organization is the North Penn Valley Boys and Girls Club, on Susquehanna Avenue, keeping the community spirit front and center on an organization dedicated to local service and youth empowerment.
Guests are encouraged to don their finest robes from “Otterwarts” (yes, prizes will be awarded) and wave their “weaselly wands” for an evening of music, magic and merriment. Guests can browse vendors, enjoy food trucks and sip local craft beer in the “BetterBeer” garden, which will pour offerings from Round Guys, Well Crafted, Ten7, Boardroom Spirits and more.
Magic for every age
Whether you’re an aspiring wizard or a “Luggle” just along for the ride, the night promises something for everyone. Families will find plenty of enchantment in the Kids’ Zone, with an Excalibur Castle moonbounce, a Giant Dual Lane Slide and the classic Apple Bash game.
Jugglers from Bad Idea Entertainment, balloon artists from Myers Designs and face painting by Josep and Morgan will keep young witches and wizards spellbound.
Meanwhile, creative types can stop by Sunflower Brigade and Photos by Julie Michelle on Madison Street for themed crafts — including hands-on projects that nod to Harry Potter lore. And yes, costumes are encouraged: prizes will be awarded for those who show up in their finest “Otterwarts” attire, whether it’s robes, scarves, or a well-placed lightning bolt.
Games, riddles and otterly good fun
In true First Friday fashion, the borough will mix magic with mischief. The ever-popular Photo Scavenger Hunt returns, with clues posted to Discover Lansdale’s Facebook by noon Friday. And keep your eyes sharp for Philip the Fox, who will be hiding in one of the many businesses along West Main Street.
A riddle with clues will be posted that afternoon, and lucky hunters will earn prizes in the form of local dining and entertainment gift cards.
Those who prefer shopping can stop by the Discover Lansdale info tent at Madison and Main to purchase First Friday tees and pick up Beer Tasting Festival tickets without service fees.
Merch tents, food vendors, and a community buzzing with energy will round out the night — all wrapped in a whimsical theme that lets the borough wink at wizardry without fear of the Ministry of Magic sending a howler.
A borough tradition with a little extra sparkle
First Fridays have become a hallmark of Lansdale life since Discover Lansdale launched the series more than a decade ago. What began as a way to bring the community together once a month has evolved into themed street festivals drawing families, friends and visitors from across the region.
This year’s series has featured everything from summer beach nights to cultural showcases — but September’s magical theme may prove to be the most enchanting yet.
So polish your broomsticks, lace up your dragon-hide boots and don’t forget your wand. The borough promises an “otterly amazing time” as First Friday transforms Lansdale into a Wizarding World all its own.
For details on parking, weather updates and the full schedule of upcoming First Fridays — including October’s Chili Cook-Off and November’s Zombie Walk — visit Discover Lansdale or follow along on Facebook.
