I love theme parks. I love Harry Potter. So The Wizarding World was a dream come true for me as we followed its announcement, development, and growth from 2007 onward.

And while I’m thrilled that this wonderful opportunity to cover a Potter park has come up again, it’s time already for Universal to make their announcement!

Don’t know what I’m talking about? In December Universal announced they were closing Jaws at Universal Studios. Rumors stated that the classic boat ride was shutting down to make way for a Diagon Alley expansion, which would be connected to Hogsmeade via a working Hogwarts Express. Behind the scenes, Universal had been marking a path for the train to travel. We also saw the planned layout of the expansion AND filing permits for North and South train stations.

For crying out loud, we even saw detailed sketches and plans for the big Gringotts roller coaster ride!

That brings us to today, when photos of actual physical parts for buildings in Diagon Alley appeared.

So with all the leaks, all the photos, all the rumors, why hasn’t Universal released more information?

The explanation is simple: As soon as they announce an expansion opening in whatever year they chose, potential tourists will hold off on booking a vacation to Universal. Why? Families will want to wait for the expansion to open so they can get their money’s worth. With people waiting for the expansion, attendance would slip.

So for now, Universal is holding off as long as humanly possible. No matter when they announce it, there will undoubtedly be a certain number of people who wait.

With construction now underway on the land itself, it’s only a matter of time before they have no choice. I predict they’ll make the announcement around the time when vertical construction starts.

So, when do YOU think they’ll make the announcement?