Online and in the shops...

MAGIC POTION: It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and father of three school-age children.

The eighth Harry Potter book, which is the script of the new West End play, Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, will be published at 12.01am on July 31 (Harry’s birthday).

To celebrate, Waterstone’s Cork are inviting young witches and wizards along for a Potter Party with cake, quizzes, prizes and much rejoicing from 12pm.

Pre-order your copy of the book to avail of their half price offer, €13.50 and make sure that it’s reserved on the day, by calling 021 427 6522; www.facebook.com/corkwaterstones

GO FISH: Opening today in Irish cinemas is Finding Dory, the much-anticipated Pixar sequel in which the forgetful blue tang fish goes search of her long-lost parents.

It’s already smashed US box office records as young and older fans of the 2003 hit Finding Nemo flock to cinemas.

At Subway, there’s a Finding Dory tie-in on their Kids Pak, which includes a 4-inch Sub with a Fruit Shoot or water and BEAR Pure Fruit Yoyos, €4. There are three menu options: Ham, Turkey Breast or Veggie Delite to choose from; www.subway.ie

BFG BEDS: This Big Friendly Giant has been drinking Frobscottle! Press his tummy to hear one of his eight Whizpopping sounds, sure to keep BFG fans entertained for hours, He is suitable from birth and you will find him in Debenhams, €22.50, along with a soft toy version, €16.

Quentin Blake’s illustrations feature on a BFG bedding set available in single, €30 and double, €45 duvet sizes.

There’s also 20% off school uniforms, online only, until July 31 at www.debenhams.ie

CASTLE FUN: Blackrock Castle is the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork; a 16th-century fort turned robotic observatory and science centre with panoramic views of Cork Harbour.

Admission for a family is €18 and includes daily planetarium shows and tours of the castle’s towers and gunnery where you can learn more about its colourful history.

During Cork Heritage Open Day on August 20, there will be four free 30 minute tours.

Advance booking is essential as places are limited. Tickets are available from today at www.bco.ie