A Harry Potter-themed scavenger hunt will take over the city on December 15, the City of Melbourne announced on Thursday.

Wannabe witches and wizards will have to race around the city, solve riddles and complete missions, much like the eponymous character in the world created by author JK Rowling.

Those who successfully scavenge their way through the city and make their way to the final stop will go into a draw to win prizes, including a Harry Potter and the Cursed Child experience.

The competition is being held in partnership with the play currently running at the Princess Theatre.

"After meeting so many passionate Harry Potter fans this season, we could not be more excited to be spending Christmas in Melbourne," Harry Potter and the Cursed Child performer Gareth Reeves said in a statement.

"We can't wait to see the Magical Christmas Quest come to life and to join Melburnians in their race around to some of the Christmas festival's iconic destinations dressed in their Harry Potter best."

The first clue will be released at 9am on December 15 via the City of Melbourne's Christmas website: https://christmas.melbourne.vic.gov.au/event/quest

Australian Associated Press