How to Watch Harry Potter in Order
The Wizarding World spans 8 Harry Potter films and 3 Fantastic Beasts films. Here is the complete guide to watching them in order.
Harry Potter Movies in Order
The Harry Potter series should be watched in release order, which is also chronological order:
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011)
Fantastic Beasts Series
Set decades before Harry Potter, the Fantastic Beasts series is a prequel:
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) — set in 1926
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018) — set in 1927
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022) — set in 1932
Complete Chronological Order
If you want to experience the entire Wizarding World timeline in order:
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (1926)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (1927)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (1932)
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (1991-1992)
- Through to Deathly Hallows Part 2 (1997-1998)
Our recommendation: Watch Harry Potter 1-8 first, then Fantastic Beasts. The Fantastic Beasts films contain references that land better if you know the Harry Potter story.
Where to Watch Harry Potter
All Harry Potter films are available on Peacock and Max (availability rotates). Films are also available for digital purchase on Apple TV, Amazon, and Vudu. Check our Where to Watch tool for current availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to watch Fantastic Beasts?
The Fantastic Beasts films are not required to understand or enjoy Harry Potter. They expand the lore with Dumbledore’s backstory but stand as a separate series. Watch them after the main saga if you want more Wizarding World content.
Is a Harry Potter TV series coming?
Yes. HBO is developing a Harry Potter television series that will adapt the books more faithfully, with each season covering one book. It is expected to premiere on Max.
