The ancient castle looms above you, its towering turrets vanishing into a mist that swirls with secrets of its own. Your heart pounds as the small wooden boat glides across the inky-black lake, its surface still and reflective, mirroring the soft glow of lantern light. The other first-years whisper nervously around you, but you remain silent—too awestruck, too aware of the enormity of this moment. Hogwarts.
As you round a bend, your breath catches. The great castle gates come into view—tall and imposing, as if carved from time itself. Stone walls stretch skyward, aglow with the warm flicker of torches that seem to invite you closer. Your pulse quickens as you step inside, and the entrance hall envelops you. The floors are impossibly smooth, polished to a shine that glimmers in the light. You glance up and feel as though the ceiling might disappear into infinity, its arches stretching further than you imagined.
At the top of the stairs, Professor McGonagall waits, her expression sharp but not unkind. You’ve heard of the Sorting Hat—everyone has. What house will it choose for you? Gryffindor, where courage shines? Ravenclaw, where wit and wisdom prevail? The thought fills you with a jittery excitement, your mind spinning with possibilities.
The crowd presses forward, carrying you into the Great Hall as the massive doors swing open. Your eyes widen. Above you, hundreds of candles float in midair, their soft flames casting a golden glow. But it’s the ceiling that steals your breath—it stretches impossibly high, painted with a night sky alive with twinkling stars. You can’t look away, marveling at the way Hogwarts seems to hold the heavens inside its walls.
Four long tables stretch out before you, lined with older students in black robes, their curious eyes turning toward you and the others. You’re moving now, your feet carrying you forward as if by magic. The Sorting Hat sits ahead, its frayed edges and wise grin waiting for you. Your heartbeat thrums in your ears as you draw closer.
This is it. Your first day at Hogwarts has only just begun.
