eval in if statement?

 <% if(Eval("SaveDate") != DBNull.Value){ %>
     do magic                           
 <%} %>

gives me error: Databinding methods such as Eval(), XPath(), and Bind() can only be used in the context of a databound control.

I could write : <%# Eval("SaveDate") != DBNull.Value ? do magic But I need to do lots of html magic in if statement.

I know I should add # in order to use Eval, but not sure about correct syntax.