"Harry Potter" isn't just the face of a billion dollar franchise, but also a huge force that will continue bring generations together for a long, long time. Check out how various social media platforms celebrated its 20th anniversary.
J.K. Rowling's debut novel changed the world
June 26, 2017 is indeed an important date for British author J.K Rowling and the readers and fans who grew up with Harry Potter. Rowling was a single mom who wanted to make ends meet two decades ago. Titled "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," Rowling's first novel hit UK bookstores in 1997.
It was also published in the US with the title "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." The novel resulted in a series of best-selling books, blockbuster movies, theater plays, and even a theme for an amusement park.
'Harry Potter' breaks the internet, Twitter debuts new hashtag
The news came directly from Rowling, tweeting about the 20th anniversary. Aside from her heartwarming message, her tweet also had a feature that the fans are familiar with. The hashtag #HarryPotter 20 included Harry's black, rounded glasses and his iconic bolt-shaped scar. E! Online reported that publishing company Bloomsbury partnered with Twitter for this.
20 years ago today a world that I had lived in alone was suddenly open to others. It's been wonderful. Thank you.#HarryPotter20
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) June 26, 2017
Facebook and its colorful magic trick
Facebook amped up their game with a colorful take on the event.
Netizens can brag about their chosen (or destined) houses of Hogwarts and their designated colors. They just have to write "Gryffindor" (red), "Slytherin" (green), "Hufflepuff" (yellow), and "Ravenclaw" (blue).
Harry's name also boasted his house colors from Gryffindor. Aside from this, netizens can find a magic Easter egg when they hover over the names.
Doing this will enable a magic wand with smoke and eye-catching lights when used as a cursor.
How Google, Instagram marketed Harry Potter's birthday
Google and Instagram did not leave fans hanging as they celebrated Harry Potter's birthday online. They even showcased their marketing skills as well.
Google lets you roam the "real-life" Hogwarts online.
The well-known search engine revealed a tour of all the places that inspired the movies using Google Earth. The tour also includes various locations where the crew filmed some of the scenes, including London's King's Cross.
Meanwhile, Instagram paid homage to the Boy Who Lived with beautiful fan art from Taryn Knight, featuring Harry as he casts a spell against Dementors.
