These days, LEGO isn't just about imaginative play where you can build whole houses, cities, or universes; there are tons of great movie tie in toys that kids just can't get enough of. Add Harry Potter to the list of franchises with their own LEGO series - kids love reenacting scenes from the books and movies, and even coming up with their own stories and scenarios for Harry, Ron, Hermione and all the gang. Whether you're just starting your own LEGO Harry Potter collection or are adding to your own sets of the beloved building bricks, here are a few favorite sets you might want to consider for your little wizards.
Quidditch, Anyone?
Want to start small? Consider the Quidditch Match set. It includes five minifigures - Harry Potter, Oliver Wood, Draco Malfoy, Marcus Flint and Madam Hooch - all in game gear, plus plenty of hoops, brooms, and of course, a Golden Snitch! Kids will love playing their own game of LEGO Quidditch, and the inclusion of some characters they might not find in other sets.
Hagrid's Hut
The whole gang is included in the Hagrid's Hut set. Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Hagrid all come with this mysterious house equipped with chairs, a table, a stove and pots and pans. This playset serves as a home away from Hogwarts that can be the jumping off point for many an adventure.
The Forbidden Forest
Looking for an easy stocking stuffer for the seasoned fan? Kids will love the Forbidden Forest playset, which depicts Harry's showdown with Voldemort. In addition to these two sworn enemies, it also includes Hagrid and Narcissa Malfoy.
The Knight Bus
Have your students wandered too far away from Hogwarts? Perhaps a spell sent them to another planet or someone else's playroom? Have no fear, the Knight Bus can help your minifigures get back to Hogwarts before Dumbledore finds out.
Hogwarts Castle
Want a gift that will knock their socks off? Any kid would be thrilled to unwrap the Hogwarts Castle playset. When built, this 1290 piece set has common rooms, towers, and even fun details like a spiral staircase and vanishing cabinet. A cornerstone to your LEGO Harry Potter collection, it also comes with Harry, Ron, and nine figures you won't find in any other set: Lord Voldemort, Professor Dumbledore, Professor Snape, Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, Argus Filch, Mrs. Norris and two Dementors. If you're on a smaller budget, don't fret! There is a smaller Hogwarts set that's still plenty cool. This simpler set has lots to see and interact with, like the Room of Requirement, Professor Lupin’s office, the Astronomy Tower, the Divination Room and the Mirror of Erised, plus seven minifigures including Neville Longbottom, Professor Sprout, Professor Lupin, Gregory Goyle, and a Death Eater.
Diagon Alley
Another big set that's sure to be a hit is the Diagon Alley playset. Diagon Alley is where the students get ready for the school year, and your figures can do their shopping at Ollivander's, Borgin and Burke's, and Gringott's Bank in this deluxe playset. There are tons of cool details inside each building; glow in the dark skeletons, exploding desks, vaults and vanishing cabinets are just some of the things you'll find at LEGO's version of Diagon Alley. It's a great place for your kids to act out adventures and get their LEGO wizards into plenty of adventures (and maybe even a little trouble). This set includes several minifigures - Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Hagrid, Fred and George Weasley, two Gringott's goblins, Mr. Ollivander, Lucius Malfoy, Fenrir Greyback, and four owls. It's a great addition to your collection or a wonderful stand alone playset. (Note: this set is not in stock and is set to ship December 22, 2011).
Beyond LEGOs: Board Games & Video Games
Want more ways to play LEGO Harry Potter? Check out the board game. Play as Harry, Ron, Hermione or Dumbledore in this game that takes place at Hogwarts. No two games are alike, as this two to four player game is meant to be built upon and changed - just like LEGO bricks! There are also LEGO Harry Potter video games for almost every console; kids and grown ups alike will love this great multiplayer game that follows Harry and friends through years five through seven at Hogwarts. Check out the PC version here.
Be sure to check out the LEGO Store for more great toys that encourage creativity and imagination - but not before taking a look at our LEGO Store coupons first!
