For readers everywhere, the Harry Potter novels brought them a world full of magic and new discoveries such as broomsticks, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans, and a school from which I’m still awaiting my acceptance letter. Another staple creation of the franchise is butterbeer, a drink served at wizarding pubs “The Three Broomsticks” and “The Leaky Cauldron.” The drink is described as tasting strongly of butterscotch and served with thick foam on top. For UNH students, butterbeer became a reality on Wednesday, Oct. 24.

Hosted by Science Fiction and Fantasy Club, the event was a chance for teams to compete in seeing who could make the best butterbeer. Member Derrick Chelikowsky recalls that the idea came at a meeting where they were thinking of ideas for an October event. They thought of Octoberfest. The idea quickly escalated into “Harry Potter plus Octoberfest,” as Chelikowsky recalls. As this is the first time this event has happened, Chlikowsky says that he is “very pleased” by the turnout and enthusiasm for the event.

First place went to “Team Bad Wolf,” second went to Katie McNamura, and third to “Murder and Manticores.”

Patrick Kelland, president of the Undergraduate Student Government Association and also one of the evening’s judges, said that he “wasn’t sure what to expect,” but was “thoroughly surprised,” adding that the event was full of spirit.

While Harry Potter’s world may not truly exist, it has been made more real thanks to the Butterbeer Fest. It brought me back to all of the magic and adventure from the world and really made me want to re-read the books again.