Top NYC Things to Do
NYC Insider Guide December Events and Activities Calendar
New York City Events December 2019 are filled with magic, dozens of holiday trees, sparkling lights everywhere, store window displays, holiday lights tours, ice skating, shopping, (hopefully) white snow, the smell of roasted chestnuts (which, by the way, smell far better than they taste). We’ve got some amazing holiday shows this year, like the Rockettes, The Illusionsists on Broadway, A Christmas Carol on Broadway, Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas the Night Before and The Nutcracker Ballet.
There is nothing on the planet like New York in December, as th city is breathtaking this time of year. New York City in December can be quite cold and the city is more crowded than usual, but that is the price we pay to experience amazing New York City during the holidays.
Please check sightseeing and holiday hours for Christmas Eve and Day (December 24th and 25th) and New Year’s Eve (December 31st).
Please add your event or business to NYC Insider Guide.
Top NYC December Events
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
- Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular
- Christmas in New York City
- New York City Holiday Lights Tours
- New Year’s Eve in New York City
- A Christmas Carol, The Illusionists Holiday Show, Nutcracker Ballet
- Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas the Night Before
- The RIDE Holiday Bus Tour
- NY Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
- Billy Joel, Cher, Andrea Bocelli
- Holiday Tree Lightings: Lincoln Center, Bryant Park, Central Park
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Christmas Spectacular Starring the Rockettes 2021
On Sale Now: November 5, 2021 - January 2, 2022
Cancelled - Nov 6, 2020 – January 3, 2021
Daily @ 11am, 2pm, 5pm, 8pm (some variations)
- Great Tickets: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
- Insider Guide: Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall Guide
With up to 5 shows per day on weekends, the Rockettes are a tradition during the NYC Holiday Season for more than 75 years. Don’t miss the signature eye-high kicks, precision choreography and exciting, show-stopping numbers – including one with Santa.
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Safely Set Sail in NYC
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Best Hotels Near Rockefeller Center
Some of our top value picks near Rockefeller Center include:
- The Jewel facing Rockefeller Center - great value and location. My NY high school classmates stayed here for our reunion
- Night Hotel - Rated the #1 Sexiest Hotel in America (best for couples)
- 3 West Club - consistently receives excellent reviews, especially the location and value for the price.
- Radio City Apartments - a NYC Insider Guide Favorite
See the Insider Guide for dozens more Hotels Near Rockefeller Center. Rockefeller Center runs from 47th - 50th Streets, between 5th and 6th Aves. Download our free neighborhood maps at Midtown East Hotels and Midtown West Hotels
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New York City Holiday Lights Tours
New York City during Holiday season is a don’t miss! Get in the festive spirit by taking a Holiday Lights Tour in New York in December. Choose from Bus Tours, Holiday Dining Cruises and Movie & TV Site Holiday tours.
See More: December Holiday Tours in New York City
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Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2020
Coming this holiday season, the 2020 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be displayed on The Plaza between West 49th and 50th streets and Fifth and Sixth avenues. Additional details about this year’s Tree and the Lighting ceremony will be announced after late October. There will be no crowds or parties, but the lighting ceremony will most likely be on NBC.
Wednesday, December 2, 2020 (our best guess)
Ceremony, 7-9 pm
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting is a highlight of every winter in NYC. The unlit tree arrives in November, and after Black Friday and Thanksgiving, the department stores open their famous window holiday displays.But, it is the week after Thanksgiving that represents the true start of Holiday Season in NYC for many New Yorkers.
Check the full NYC Insider Guide to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
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Holiday Shows in NYC
NYC is home to more special holiday shows this season than EVER before! Tickets are selling fast for the Rockettes, The Illusionsists on Broadway, A Christmas Carol on Broadway, Cirque du Soleil 'Twas the Night Before and The Nutcracker Ballet. Don't miss out - now is the time to score the best seats on the best days.
- A Christmas Carol - November 7, 2019 - January 5, 2020
- Rockettes Christmas Spectacular - Nov 8, 2019 - Jan 5, 2020
- The Illusionists Magic of the Holidays - November 29, 2019 – Jan 5, 2020
- Nutcracker Ballet - November 29, 2019 – Jan 5, 2020
- Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas the Night Before… - December 12-29, 2019 @ Hulu Theater at MSG
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Best New Years Eve NYC Hotels
If watching the world’s most famous ball drop at midnight from your own New Year’s Eve NYC Hotel is on your bucket list, then don’t miss your chance to reserve a special NYE package in NYC. Some of our favorites include:
- New York Marriott Marquis – rooms with Ball Drop views, multiple parties in hotel
- Casablanca Hotel Times Square – champagne on the rooftop close enough to "touch" the ball
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – special hotel access to Times Square all night and to watch ball drop
See More: Best New Years Eve NYC Hotels
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New Year’s Eve in New York City
You have so many options for New Year’s Eve in NYC.
Dinner Cruises with Fireworks
- Public view of ball drop in Times Square
- Private indoor parties around Times Square with view of ball drop
- Special dinners at thousands of restaurants
- New Years Eve with the New York Philharmonic
Check out the New Year’s Eve Party Guide.
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December 2019 New York City Concerts, Music & Shows
- Jerry Seinfeld – December 13, 2019 @ Beacon Theatre
- Billy Joel – Dec 11, 2019 @ MSG
- Jingle Ball w/ Taylor Swift, Jonas Brothers – Dec 13, 2019 @ MSG
- Cher – Dec 3, 2019 @ MSG
- Andrea Bocelli – December 18-19, 2019 @ MSG
- Rockettes Christmas Spectacular – Nov 8, 2019 – Jan 5, 2020
- Nutcracker Ballet – November 29, 2019 – Jan 5, 2020
- Idina Menzel – December 11, 2019 @ Carnegie Hall
- Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas the Night Before… @ Hulu Theater at MSG
See More: NYC Concerts Shows December – Bob Dylan, Phish, Bad Bunny, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Michael Bolton, Pentatonix, Mariah Carey,
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NYC Airport Guides - LGA, JFK, EWR
Our detailed NYC Airport Guides go in-depth on everything you need to know about each airport. Free shuttles, nearby hotels, Stay & Fly Free Parking, Taxis, Limos, Shuttles, Parking, Cheap Flights and more.
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New York City Gift Ideas
There are so many fantastic New York City Gift Ideas that will bring a smile to anyone who lives here, is moving to NYC or is just visiting for a few days. You can treat your loved ones of any age to almost anything in NYC, like foodie gift cards, Broadway gift cards, or a special experience as a gift for someone visiting New York.
- Ticketmaster Gift Card - There is probably no more versatile gift in NYC than a Ticketmaster Gift Card. Broadway, Sports, Concerts and so much more.
- Classic Harbor Cruise - NYC Boat Cruises are one of my favorite things to do in NYC, with both my lifelong NYC friends and when visitors come to town
- NYC Foodie and Restaurant Gifts - choose from dozens of food tours, restaurant gift cards, classes.
See All: New York City Gift Ideas
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NYC Insider Print Map and Guide to Manhattan
NYC Printable Maps - Immediate Download
NYC Printable Map Guide Book
BONUS NYC Maps
NYC Travel Guide
More Info: NYC Printable Maps | Customer Reviews | Free Mini Guide
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Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas the Night Before…
December 12-29, 2019
‘Twas the Night Before… is an exhilarating new spin on the beloved Christmas classic as only Cirque du Soleil can imagine. This vibrant acrobatic show about the joy of sharing and friendship promises to spark lasting memories in the hearts of children and adults alike. Expect the unexpected! Find out what really happened before Santa dropped in. A Modern Spin On A Holiday Classic For The Whole Family.
- Tickets: Hulu Theater @ MSG
- See More: Cirque du Soleil NYC
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Hotels Near Penn Station, NYC
Staying near Penn Station / Madison Square Garden is a great idea when staying late for the Rangers, Knicks or your favorite concert, arrive or leave early via Amtrak or LIRR or just want to stay in a very affordable area of Manhattan steps from the Empire State Building, Macy's and no more than a 15 minute subway ride anywhere in Manhattan. Some of our top picks near Penn Station include:
- Hotel Pennsylvania - closest to MSG and one of NYC's most popular hotels
- Crowne Plaza HY36 - new in 2018, great reviews online
- Radisson Hotel New York Times Square - new in late 2019, crazy low rates under $150 night
See More: Hotels Near Penn Station, NYC
NYC Uber and UberPool - Save $5 Coupon
For a long time, I was only pro taxi as Uber had so many issues and just congested NYC. However, the launch of uberPOOL has made rides much more affordable as well as better for our roads and the environment.
uberPOOL basically combines rides, so you may go out of your way for a few minutes, but the rides will cost you about 30% less. This is a great option for 1-2 people (any more than that and you'll have to take your own car). Many times, you'll have the whole ride to yourself anyway if they can't find you a match, so you'll save huge $$. Even better, get $5 off your first Uber or uberPOOL using my link or with code uber-nycinsiderguide.
Read More: NYC Limos, Taxis, Shuttles, Car Services
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The Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™
November 29, 2019 -January 5, 2020
Tickets on Sale in September
From the moment the lights dim, you will be transported to a magical place filled with adorable children, marching toy soldiers, a glowing one-ton Christmas tree that seemingly grows forever, mischievous mice, waltzing snowflakes, the Land of Sweets and some of the most glorious dancing on earth.
More Info: Nutcracker Ballet
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Christmas in New York City
There is nothing like Christmas in New York City. The Rockefeller Tree, Central Park, Bryant Park, Lincoln Center, glamorous store window displays and holiday lights everywhere you look bring the most amazing city and landmarks in the world to a whole new level. You want to make sure to have the best dinner, know which attractions are open and closed and so much more.
Read the full NYC Insider Guide to Christmas in New York City to get the inside scoop and plan your Christmas holiday.
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Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in Room
Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in room offer travelers a wonderful way to relax and connect after a long day of walking around NYC. Our top picks for in room jacuzzi spa tubs include:
- The Muse New York - spa suite with a jacuzzi tub (photo)
- YOTEL at Times Square West - ask for the "The First King Terrace cabin"
- Eventi, a Kimpton Hotel - 'beds are so comfy, the bathroom (with jacuzzi!) was fantastic'
See More: Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in Room
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Things To Do in New York in December
Don’t let the cold weather fool you! There are lots of great things to do in New York in December. For starters, winter sports abound, whether you like to play, watch, or both. Shopping reaches a fever pitch this month, from crafts and artists’ markets to flea markets to sample sales.
If you want to ice skate, see the most beautiful skyline lit up to a whole new level, head to Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes, Lincoln Center for the Nutcracker, see the best of Broadway or the beautiful windows of 5th Avenue, don’t miss our insider tips and guide to a great December in NYC.
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Christmas in New York Holiday Season Calendar
Check our day by day guide to the Holiday Season in New York City. Thanksgiving, the Rockettes, Cocoa and Carols Cruises, The Nutcracker Rockefeller Tree, Central Park Christmas Tree and more on our NYC Holiday Events Calendar. Deck the Halls, Light the Menorah and celebrate Christmas in New York with our calendar.
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Holiday Markets in NYC
Explore the top holiday markets in NYC, sip hot cocoa, ice skate and shop your way through our fantastic holiday bazaars, featuring unique artisan gifts for the whole family. We review Grand Central Holiday Market, Union Square Holiday Market, Shops at Winter Village Bryant Park, flea markets, Holiday Markets Shopping Tours and more.
Cross off your holiday shopping list with our full season Guide to Holiday Markets in NYC
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Sports New York City Events December
Winter is a great time to catch one of our 6 professional sports teams in action! The Giants and Jets are heading towards the end of football season. Knicks and Nets basketball is underway, as is the NY Rangers and Islanders hockey season. Make sure to add a NYC Game Day to your NYC vacation – it’s an absolute MUST in NYC!
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The Harlem Globetrotters
Dec 27, 2019; February 17, 2020 MSG
December 29, 2019 @ Nassau Coliseum
Dec 30, 2019; Prudential Center (NJ)
February 16, 2020; Barclays Center
The legendary Harlem Globetrotters are always a blast to watch. This is not ordinary basketball – it is a comedy show and wholesome family fun. Their high-flying blend of basketball action and comedy has thrilled fans of all ages for over 80 years. We loved this show as a kid.
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December Broadway Show Picks
Check out our newest Broadway Shows and top NYC Insider Picks for December!
freestyle love supreme - closed, see List of Broadway Shows
Sept 13, 2019 - Jan 12, 2020. Before Hamilton! Before In The Heights! More than 15 years after its inception, Freestyle Love Supreme — the original hip-hop musical phenomenon from Thomas Kail, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Anthony Veneziale — arrives on Broadway. Every performance, the crew takes the crowd on a freestyle, hip-hop, improvisational, never-before-seen comedy ride. Performers take suggestions from the audience and spin them into instantaneous riffs and full-length musical numbers. With spontaneous guest appearances from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Christopher Jackson, Daveed Diggs, James Monroe Iglehart, and more, every night brings the unexpected.
November 7, 2019 - January 5, 2020 - A new interpretation of Charles Dickens' classic story about Tiny Tim and Ebenezer Scrooge debuts on Broadway this holiday season. The ghosts of the past, present and future visit Scrooge and remind him what is really important in life. Time Out raves, “Five stars. It’s a stunning piece of visual theatre.”
The Illusionists Magic of the Holidays
November 29, 2019 - January 5, 2020 - The mind-blowing spectacular of 'The Illusionists Magic of the Holidays' on Broadway showcases the jaw-dropping talents of the most incredible Illusionists on earth, alongside special guests Light Balance. In 2019, the show stars Dom Chambers and Eric Chien, the multi-talented magic makers known for their appearances on America's Got Talent, along with master entertainers Chris Cox, Paul Dabek, Kevin James, Sos & Victoria Petrosyan and Enzo Weyne.
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical
From humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her transformation into the global Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, Tina Turner didn't just break the rules, she rewrote them. This new hit stage musical, presented in association with Tina Turner herself, reveals the untold story of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of her age, gender and race. Previews: Oct 12, 2019, Tickets on sale through September 2020. Ages 14+
Jagged Little Pill Broadway Musical
The Healys are a picture-perfect family, but looks can be deceiving. When the cracks beneath the surface begin to show, they must choose between maintaining the status quo or facing harsh truths about themselves, their community, and the world around them. Featuring Alanis Morissette’s iconic songs including “Ironic,” “You Oughta Know,” and “Hand In My Pocket,” plus brand-new songs written for the show. Previews: November 3, 2019
"A radical, thrilling new interpretation of this iconic work, with extraordinary dancing, breathtaking vision, and 23 young, brilliantly gifted performers all making their Broadway debuts. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a landmark in musical theater history as if for the very first time." Previews: December 10, 2019. Tickets on sale through June 2020.
Celebrities on Broadway
- To Kill a Mockingbird - Jeff Daniels/Ed Harris (play adapted by Aaron Sorkin)
- Plaza Suite Comedy Play - Sarah Jessica Parker & Matthew Broderick (Postponed 2020)
- American Buffalo - Laurence Fishburne, Sam Rockwell, Darren Criss (March 24, 2020 - open)
- Take Me Out Broadway - Jesse Williams, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Patrick Adams (April 2 - June 14, 2020)
- Birthday Candles - Debra Messing (Fall 2020)
- The Music Man on Broadway - Hugh Jackman & Sutton Foster (September 9, 2020 - open)
See More: Celebs on Broadway and All Broadway Shows
Full List of Broadway Shows and Discount Broadway Tickets
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Fun Things to do in New York in Winter
There are so many winter activities in NYC, making it one of the BEST times to visit NYC. Yes, the weather can be cold and wet, so it is a risk. However, there are two huge payoffs, depending on a pre-or post holidays visit. Wondering what do to in New York in winter? Some of our favorite picks are:
- Ice Skating in New York City - Central Park, Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park are not to be missed
- NYC Helicopter Tours - beat the cold weather and see the absolute best NYC views!
- New York City Museums - take in a new exhibit, film or revisit one of your old favorites
See All: Fun Things to do in New York in Winter
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LuminoCity Festival of Lights
New in 2019, The LuminoCity Festival of Lights is an entire island transformed into a Winter Holiday Wonderland.
November 23, 2019 – January 5, 2020
Randall’s Island
In the inaugural year of 2019, LuminoCity proudly presents its signature event LuminoCity Festival, a month-long holiday event with an exhibition of spectacular light art displays, live performances and a celebration of cultures.
Described as an "An Immersive Wonderland of Lights," LuminoCity offers dozens of light displays including, The Winter Fantasy, The Skating Unicorn, Castle in the Clouds, Frosted Forest, Ice Valley, Frozen Field, Themed Nights, Holiday Markets and a lot more!
- Tickets Required ($19-$88): LuminoCity Festival Tickets
- More Info: LuminoCity Festival of Lights
- Directions: Take the Uptown or Downtown 4, 5, or 6 train to 125th St and transfer to the M35, which goes right to Randall’s Island.
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New York Christmas Vacation Packages
Prices on hotels tend to skyrocket during NYC’s busiest time of year! Luckily, we have a fantastic NYC Vacation Company that has scoured the city to bring you the BEST deals and help you enjoy your NYC vacation. December is a great time to book your all inclusive NYC Vacation Package and save. All New York City Vacation Packages include Hotel, Taxes, Free Attractions and Museums, Discounts, Maps, Vacation Planning Assistance and more.
Best New York City Vacation Packages in December:
- Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Vacation Package
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular Hotel Package
- Christmas Dinner Staycation in New York City
- New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop Gala
- New Year’s Eve Times Square Hotel
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New Years Eve Cruises and Parties - NYC Insider Guide Exclusive Discounts
Use Promo Code NYCINSIDER for a 10% discount off your choice of New Years Eve fireworks cruises: Fireworks Cruise on Majesty Yacht or Family-Friendly Fireworks Cruise Aboard the Destiny. Treat yourself and loved ones to Open Bar, DJs, Buffet Dinner and of course, front row seats to the NYE fireworks by the Statue of Liberty. Tickets start @ $215. Read More: NYC New Years Eve Cruises
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Walk, Bike, Bus, Blade or Fly Over NYC?
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Giants & Jets MetLife Schedule
Ready to see the Giants star quarterback, Eli Manning or catch our newest star recruit, Saquon Barkley? Perhaps you'd rather see football's newest stars on the Jets roster? Either way, there's nothing like a traditional American football game, so head on out to MetLife Stadium, where tickets start at just $40 per game!
- Giants Tickets: StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon
- Jets Tickets: StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon
- Insider Guides: NY Giants and NY Jets
NY Giants & Jets Schedule – Home Games December
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Rangers MSG Schedule
Get your New York Rangers tickets and schedule to see our NY hockey team live in action at Madison Square Garden. The NY Rangers have made the finals and/or playoffs the last six consecutive seasons. Their games are the easiest sporting events in NYC to attend, right in Midtown Manhattan, a block from the Empire State Building.
- Rangers Tickets: StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon
- Insider Guide: NY Rangers Tickets, Schedule, Directions
NY Rangers Schedule – Home Games December
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Knicks MSG Schedule
No matter how they are performing, Knicks games are always a blast and there's nothing like an event at MSG. Come join our NY basketball team live in action at Madison Square Garden, "The World’s Most Famous Arena." Go NYC style with cheap seats, fast paced sports action, hot dogs and beer and cheer on the New York Knicks today! As a general rule, with plenty of exceptions, basketball games start at either 7:30pm or 12:00pm, November through April.
- Knicks Tickets: StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon
- Insider Guide: NY Knicks Tickets, Schedule, Directions
NY Knicks Schedule – Home Games December
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New York City Events Calendar
Things to Do in NYC by Month
Our Event Calendars show you exactly which events occur by day, but our Things to Do monthly guides highlight seasonal tours, bike rides, best time for boat cruises, when to buy tickets, the biggest sales and all the optimal times to do activities by month.
Check out our Monthly Things to do in NYC Guides.
Promote YOUR NYC Event on NYC Insider Guide
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Promote YOUR Business on NYC Insider Guide
Help US Help Our site visitors by promoting YOUR NYC business. Have a great NYC restaurant, hotel, store or attraction? Want to offer a coupon to our guests? Want to share your favorite parts of New York City? We want to hear all about it. Learn More: Promote YOUR Business on NYC Insider Guide
List free or choose from one of our featured packages. We love to design custom promotions that help both our site visitors and our local NYC businesses. We never do banner advertising. We work WITH you to make the most of your advertising by designing unique programs to maximize our expertise with our site visitors and spending habits.
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