More than 1,200 people filled up six sold out theaters early Wednesday morning to watch the premiere of "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."
But unlike past midnight showings, fans in the lobby seemed more interested in buying concessions than practicing their wizarding skills.
Senior Spanish major Elaine Read, who has been reading the series since the fourth grade, brought her journal to document the premiere, but said she was disappointed by the atmosphere before the show.
"I went to Indy for the last show at midnight and it was crazy," she said. "It was jam-packed. There was people dueling... It's like its own litte culture. I guess not in Muncie."
Kerasotes Muncie ShowPlace 12 was the only venue in Muncie to show the movie at midnight. The theater had showtimes ranging from 12:01 a.m. to 12:06 p.m., which they announced had sold out on Tuesday afternoon. The theaters began seating people shortly after 9 p.m., which diluted the crowd and some of the energy.
Graduate student Lizzie Altenbern arrived at the theater at about 10 p.m. expecting to see lines of wizards, witches and Muggles waiting to get in.
"Part of me wishes there were more people dressed up and into it," she said. "But it's nice not to wait in lines."
Freshman Bethany Kuzma was part of the minority who dressed up for the event. She and her roommate wore matching Gryffindor t-shirts and striped maroon and gold scarves.
"I used to want to go to Hogwarts and be a wizard," she said laughing. "I love Harry Potter. It's sweet."
Alicia White, a graduate of Burris Laboratory School, came to the premiere dressed as Tonks.
"I've been a fan for a really long time," White said. "I listen to MuggleCast on a regular basis. It's been a part of my life for so long that it's exciting."
Party Wizards Costumes co-owner Joyce Davis said the costume shop sells a lot of Harry Potter gear throughout the year, but the shop saw a slight increase in sales this week.
About 20 to 30 people bought accessories including glasses, scarves and wands from the store in preparation for the movie, Davis said.
"A lot of these people have been buying since the first book came out," she said.
Like many fans at the theater, White said she has been reading the books since the third or fourth grade.
"I can't believe it's almost over," she said after seeing the movie. "That was definitely one of the best [movies]."
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