Ahead of the 20th anniversary of the publication of the first book in the Harry Potter series – Philosopher’s Stone, nearly 700 children in wizard robes and round glasses gathered at Smithills Hall, Bolton in the UK on Friday to celebrate the occasion. /CFP Photo

The 676 students successfully beat the Guinness record for the world's largest party of people dressed like Harry Potter. /CFP Photo

The rule states that each participant should include the boy wizard’s lighting facial scar in their attire. /CFP Photo

The previous record was a gathering held by 521 children from Tanbridge House school in Horsham, West Sussex in March 2015. /CFP Photo

All pupils had to stand together for five minutes before they officially started celebrating the new world record. /CFP Photo

Each participant was also required to don a Gryffindor tie and glasses, and hold a wand in their hand. /CFP Photo