don't understand what you mean "in lieu of the last book coming out"?
And how could you do a party before you know the theme of the last book?
Linda C

Well, because it's a series, where people who know the books are aware of the characters and themes in all of the other volumes, usually they base their ideas on items up to that point. In some cases, the host of the party actually has copies of the new book on hand for distribution.

Linda's point is that "in lieu of" means "instead of", so to rephrase what you said, you have heard from "people planning to do Harry Potter parties instead of the last book coming out". Clearly this makes no sense.

Thanks Colleen. I guess she doesn't know what the word means...I didn't realize that.
Linda C

Well, gals, clearly I improperly used the word, and have learned something today.

Mea culpa--
-Jenn

Jenn, the party looked terrific! Loved the idea of you trying skeleton heads on shampoo bottles; that sounds like something I would do. I see you have a link to Britta, the Queen of Merrymaking. (Is she not the most inspirational thing?)

Jenn-
I don't have anyone Harry Potter age, but I do love the books myself. I appreciate you posting the party ideas.

Gail

Aha - I think the OP meant "in view of" or "in light of". I've heard that error made a number of times.

Can you think of a way to play a modified form of Quiddich?

Littledog, yes indeed, Britta's web site is chock full of great ideas! I didn't want folks missing out on her elaborate party preparations.

Gellchom, hmmm... a modified form of Quidditch, eh? Well, how much room do you have, and what age group would be playing? (Big difference if these are five year olds in a backyard, or college students letting off steam. :-)

I'm sure it's possible to come up with something.