Confused about where Fantastic Beasts fits in the Harry Potter saga? The secret order of the Wizarding World’s timeline might shock even longtime fans. Here’s the chronological path you need to follow before your next marathon.
How Fantastic Beasts sets the stage decades before Harry Potter
The Fantastic Beasts series begins in the 1920s, nearly 70 years before Harry sets foot in Hogwarts. This era introduces Newt Scamander, Grindelwald, and Dumbledore’s complicated past. For new fans, skipping these films means missing crucial backstory on how dark forces shaped the world Harry inherited.
Why parents introducing kids should start with Harry Potter first
While Fantastic Beasts offers rich lore, its darker tone can overwhelm younger audiences. Parents guiding children often choose to begin with Harry Potter’s first year at Hogwarts, building wonder before diving into the heavier wizarding conflicts. The lighter introduction helps keep young readers and viewers engaged.
The correct chronological order every collector should know
If you want to experience events as they happen, start with the three Fantastic Beasts films (1920s–1930s). Then follow the seven Harry Potter books or eight films (1991–1998). This sequence uncovers hidden connections between Grindelwald’s rise and Voldemort’s eventual return.
How the timeline secretly connects Dumbledore, Grindelwald, and Harry
The Fantastic Beasts era reveals Dumbledore’s hidden struggles with Grindelwald, which directly impact the Hogwarts headmaster Harry knew. Collectors and lore-focused fans value this order because it exposes the emotional scars behind Dumbledore’s guidance of Harry in later years.
Final takeaway fans risk missing without the timeline guide
Whether you’re a first-time reader, a parent introducing the saga, or a lifelong collector, following the chronological order enriches every detail. The timeline secretly exposes how power struggles echo across generations, making the Wizarding World a richer, interconnected universe.
“Reading and watching in order doesn’t just tell a story—it uncovers the hidden heartbeat of the Wizarding World.” — Wizarding historian’s note
| Step | Detail | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Watch Fantastic Beasts trilogy (1920s–1930s) | Before starting Harry Potter series |
| 2 | Read or watch Harry Potter series (1991–1998) | Ongoing, in sequence |
| 3 | Revisit both timelines for hidden links | After completing initial run |
SOURCES
- https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/fantastic-beasts-timeline
- https://screenrant.com/harry-potter-fantastic-beasts-timeline-explained
- https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/fantastic-beasts-harry-potter-timeline-guide
Similar posts:
- Harry Potter spin-off shows: Every rumor about future HBO Max series
- Harry Potter books in order: Complete reading guide for new fans
- Best Harry Potter book for beginners: What to read first in 2025
- Harry Potter fan theories explained: Shocking details most missed
- Harry Potter TikTok trends: Why Gen Z keeps reinventing Hogwarts
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.