The “Harry Potter” theme song resonated throughout the room, as students entered the Tinkham Veale Ballroom in ball gowns and tuxes. Hogwarts-inspired decorations surrounded the tables and windows, while a mouthwatering appetizer station and dessert bar had the guests coming for seconds.

You guessed it; this scene was none other than the Yule Ball, presented by the Case Western Reserve University Quidditch Team. The Yule ball was a “Harry Potter”-themed semi-formal/formal dance that included fine dining, photo booths, games and dancing. This ball was inspired by the fourth “Harry Potter” book, “The Goblet of Fire,” where a wizard tournament takes place and multiple schools from around the world come to together and compete. After the tournament there is a Yule ball to foster international friendships.

Although this was only the second annual Yule Ball, over 400 tickets were sold. CWRU Swing Club made an appearance with an energy-filled performance that the guests loved, while a local Montessori school set up a butter beer booth as a fundraiser.

“Our first Yule Ball was in Carlton Commons, which limited us to only 300 people, and we sold out the building’s capacity. However, Tinkham Veale is a much bigger venue and allows us to expand our event,” said Natasha Smith, president of the Quidditch Team.

CWRU Quidditch team practices twice a week and competes against other universities in the northeast Ohio region. Beyond the creative aspect of this sport, players must have a need for speed and intensity, since the game calls for both basketball and soccer techniques.

“We have constructed our own hoops and other equipment, because those aren’t regular sporting gear you can easily buy,” said Smith. “We are a competitive team, and it’s a very exciting sport to be a part of.”

Although the Yule Ball is their largest fundraiser, the Quidditch team held a tournament in the fall where they taught Greek chapters how to play and had them compete for charity.

Yule Ball brought together a community of people who shared their love for “Harry Potter.” The lively music, delicious food and vibrant decorations made the night an unforgettable one.