Anyone who has read the Harry Potter book series or seen any of the films knows that Quidditch is THE sport in the wizarding world. But did you know that Muggles (non-magical folk) now play the sport as well? That’s right – you, too, could grab a broomstick and catch your own golden snitch!

According to the International Quidditch Association, nearly 300 full-fledged teams have been formed worldwide since 2005, and over 100 are now officially registered members of the IQA league. The United States boasts the highest number of teams with 272!

Many of these are collegiate teams and play intramural games regularly. The highlight of league play is the Quidditch World Cup, which takes place in late fall in New York. This year will mark the 5^th Annual World Cup.

But how do you play Quidditch if you can’t fly?

Muggle Quidditch was adapted from the game that appears in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books. The teams have the same players: three chasers, two beaters, one keeper and one seeker. Teams receive points if their chasers successfully pass the quaffle ball downfield and throw/kick it through one of three hoops at the opposing team’s goal, which the keeper guards. The beaters try to knock opposing players temporarily out of play by throwing bludger balls at them. Games end when a team’s seeker successfully catches the golden snitch (which, in Muggle play, is a person).

And did I mention all of this has to take place while riding on a broom? That’s right – players have to hold onto a broomstick while all of this running takes place!

Still having trouble picturing it?

On July 15 – the opening day of Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 2: An IMAX 3D Experience – The Henry Ford IMAX Theatre is proud to host two Michigan Quidditch collegiate teams! Joining us on the front lawn of Henry Ford Museum will be the teams from Michigan State University and Oakland University. These teams will play at 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – come on out and join us in cheering for your favorite team! Clinics will also be offered at 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. for guests interested in learning the game. See you there!

Tickets for Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 2: An IMAX 3D Experience can be purchased online, by phone or in person here at The Henry Ford. Hurry, shows are selling fast!