Can’t wait to get your hands on “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”?

Several Lawrence bookstores – anticipating demand for the sixth and latest book in the series – are planning midnight release parties, complete with costumes, trivia contests, Quidditch matches, Bertie Bott’s Beans and butterbeer.

The new book officially goes on sale at midnight Saturday. Here’s a look at some of the special events being offered in town:

l Borders, 700 N.H.: “Midnight Magic” party, 9 p.m. Friday, featuring: face painting, fortune telling, costumes, special drinks and a section of the cafe where attendees can mix up experiments from the Harry Potter books. The party is free and open to the community, but only those who have already reserved a copy of “Half-Blood Prince” will be able to buy one at midnight Saturday.

l Hawks Nest, Level 1, Kansas Union, midnight release party, 8 p.m. Friday, featuring: free screening of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” contests (costume, pumpkin-carving, trivia and crossword puzzle) and prizes; free nachos, popcorn and soda; fictional drinks from the books (butterbeer and pumpkin juice) prepared by Milton’s Coffee & Wine. Attendees will be able to purchase copies of the new book, discounted 25 percent, no need to reserve a copy. Sponsored by Oread Books and Student Union Activities.

l Hastings, 1900 W. 23rd St., midnight release party, 6 p.m. Friday, featuring: contests (trivia and costumes), wand making and Quidditch game for children. Copies of the book will be sold at midnight, with 40 percent discount; copies of the book must be reserved in advance with purchase of a $5 gift card, which can later be put toward purchase of book.

l Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vt., Harry Potter Lock-in, 5 p.m. Saturday to 9 a.m. Sunday, young adults program (11-18), featuring: magician, human chess game, reading and discussion of newest book, Harry Potter movies, crafts, games, costumes and food. Must have signed permission slip from parent to participate. Register in The Zone (young adult area) any time during library hours: space limited. For more information, contact Kim Patton at 843-3833, ext. 121.

l The Raven Bookstore, 6 E. Seventh St., midnight release party, Saturday, opportunity to buy copies of the book at 25-percent discount; 100 copies already have been reserved, total of 160 copies have been ordered; good idea to call ahead and reserve a copy before Saturday, 749-3300.