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Universal Removes ‘Harry Potter’ Attraction From Daily Operations

Harry Potter attraction is closing to guests at Universal Orlando Resort in two days.

Epic Universe has now been open for more than a year, bringing thousands of guests to its newest worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The land expanded Universal's Harry Potter portfolio beyond Hogwarts and Diagon Alley, introducing a new setting inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films.

Concept artwork for the upcoming new Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.
Credit: Universal

The opening also marked the latest chapter in a franchise that has shaped Universal Orlando for more than a decade.

Hogsmeade debuted at Universal Islands of Adventure in 2010 with Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey before adding Flight of the Hippogriff and, later, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Universal Studios Florida followed in 2014 with Diagon Alley, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and the Hogwarts Express linking the two parks.

Epic Universe continued that expansion in May 2025 with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The land recreates wizarding Paris in the 1920s before transporting guests to the British Ministry of Magic through the Métro-Floo.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic Epic Universe
Credit: Universal

Guests can experience two attractions inside the land. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry combines large-scale sets, advanced animatronics, and motion simulation, while Le Cirque Arcanus is a live stage spectacular featuring performers, puppetry, special effects, and magical creatures inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films.

Beginning this weekend, however, only one of those attractions will remain open.

Universal Schedules Temporary Harry Potter Attraction Closure

Universal has confirmed that Le Cirque Arcanus will temporarily close at Epic Universe beginning Sunday, June 21, 2026.

The attraction is expected to remain closed through June 30 before reopening on July 1.

Universal has not provided a reason for the closure. Because it is scheduled to last only 10 days, the downtime appears consistent with routine maintenance rather than a major refurbishment.

During the closure, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry will remain open, leaving guests with a single attraction to experience inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.

The closure comes as several other attractions across Universal Orlando Resort are also unavailable.

Jurassic Park River Adventure remains closed at Islands of Adventure and is expected to reopen in November. Pteranodon Flyers is also temporarily closed, with a reopening planned for July.

The Universal Orlando Resort globe spinning around. closure Universal Studios Florida
Credit: Universal

At Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando's Horror Makeup Show is being reimagined ahead of a winter reopening. Po's Kung Fu Training Camp, including Po Live!, is also expected to reopen in July. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack recently returned to operation after receiving updated effects.

Expansion Rumors Continue Around Epic Universe

The temporary closure arrives as speculation continues over the future of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.

Earlier this year, Universal filed construction permits for an expansion area believed to be connected to the Harry Potter land. The documents reference approximately 150,000 square feet of construction, prompting speculation that another major addition could be in development.

Universal has not formally announced any expansion plans.

A more imminent addition is Universal Celestial Goodnight, a brand-new nighttime spectacular that will debut July 7.

What changes would you like to see in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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