February 2024

Tap Into Maple hits the sweet spot in Orillia & Lake Country

PRESS RELEASE
February 28, 2024 – Orillia & Lake Country, ON

Tap Into Maple hits the sweet spot in Orillia & Lake Country

ToDoOntario - Tap into Maple, maple producer

It’s that sweet time of year again, as Orillia & Lake Country presents the ever-popular Tap into Maple experience. Running March 1 to April 7, the program is an opportunity to visit the region’s maple syrup producers, enjoy special maple-themed experiences, and indulge in local maple-inspired cuisine.

This year’s Tap into Maple program truly showcases the deep roots of maple in our region with 18 participating locations including 8 maple syrup producers offering an array of sugar bush experiences. Take a self-guided tour through lesser-traveled routes to working sugar shacks that offer a firsthand view of the maple syrup process, from harvesting and boiling to enjoying. Additionally, experience the many ways maple is celebrated by shopping for maple products, enjoying a maple infused craft brew or dining out on maple featured menus.

Warmer temperatures have meant an earlier start to Orillia & Lake Country’s popular maple season. The sap has been flowing through the region’s sugar bushes to the sound of rushing tap lines and dripping buckets as producers start some of their earliest seasons on record. This year’s Tap into Maple producers include Elsie’s Creek Farm, The Farmgate, Hewitt’s Maple Syrup and Farm Market, Hutchinson’s Maple Syrup, Maple Grove Syrup, Shaw’s Maple Syrup, Sugar Sweet Farm, and Windlee Farm Maple Syrup. Walk through a tap lined sugar bush, see the different processes from small scale sugar shacks to larger facilities, meet the producers who work year-round to ensure the best product, and pick up the freshest maple syrup of the season. Be sure to check TapIntoMaple.com for visiting hours at each site.

Be sure to stop at Chelsea Chocolates in Oro-Medonte, Copperpot Nuts in Severn, and DWN Craft Chocolatier and Susie Q Fudge & Gifts in Orillia for even more maple inspired products. All of these shops have developed partnerships with local maple syrup producers to infuse their sweet treats – including maple chocolate bars, maple-infused nuts, and maple fudge. On Saturday mornings the Orillia Farmers’ Market also welcomes vendors and producers celebrating all things maple this season. In Rama First Nation, Rama Cannabis offers maple infused items, showcasing the connections of both cannabis and the maple tree (ininaatig) to Anishinaabe culture.

Orillia & Lake Country’s culinary scene is also ready to celebrate all things maple. Off-Eleven Pizza + Eats, by the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport is offering two dishes featuring Hutchinson’s Maple Syrup. G&O Bistro at Best Western Plus Mariposa Inn will be offering a three-course specialty dinner menu highlighting maple and Canadiana flavours. Three of Casino Rama Resort’s restaurants will have maple-infused treats: maple snacks at Cedar Express, breakfast at The Weirs, and dinner and maple infused cocktails at Simcoe Yard House. At Lagoon City Pier One Resort, maple syrup from The Farmgate, made just down the road, makes it onto their delicious pepper maple glazed pork loin dinner. Finally, top off the end of a self-guided tour through the region with a maple-infused craft brew at Quayle’s Brewery along with great food and on-site activities for the whole family.

Mark your calendars for two family fun events to cap off the Tap into Maple experience. On March 23rd and 24th the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre hosts the 34th Annual Sweetwater Harvest Festival with loads of family fun activities, delicious food and educational opportunities alongside their partner site, Saint-Marie Among the Hurons. At the grand finale of Tap into Maple, the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association presents Maple Weekend on April 6th and 7th. Many Tap into Maple producers will offer extra events, activities, and treats on site-during the weekend to kick-off the spring sales of maple products in our area.

Tap into Maple has something for everyone. Check out each location for details about hours of operation and booking ahead. Visit TapIntoMaple.com for more information on all of the participating producers, businesses and activities.

– 30 –

Media Contact:
Shannon Hawke, Marketing & Sales Coordinator Orillia & Lake Country Tourism
705-325-9321
[email protected]

ToDoOntarioTap Into Maple hits the sweet spot in Orillia & Lake Country
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Deerhurst Resort Vacation Package Promo Code

March Break and Easter Weekend Getaway Savings

Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario is the perfect destination for your family this March Break or Easter Weekend. Both of these holidays land in March this year. It’s almost time to end your winter with a family vacation to Muskoka filled with fun. 

If you book before February 21st, you can save up to 15% of your vacation. Use the PROMO CODE TODO at check out and save on your next Ontario family getaway.

March Break at Deerhurst Resort

ToDoOntario - Deerhurst Resort, boy watching show in a crowd

From campfires, magic shows and indoor fun zone to outdoor fun like skating, snowshoeing or downhill skiing and snowboarding next door at Muskoka Ski Club, the whole family will have a blast on March Break in Muskoka.

2024 MARCH BREAK MAGIC STAY INCLUDES:

  • Magic shows and workshops with illusionist Ron Gudel – one of our most popular performers! 
  • Indoor Fun Zone with fun and games
  • Hiking, Cross Country Ski & Snowshoe trails
  • Use of cross country skis, snowshoes and kick sleds
  • Outdoor skating rink. Skates are available but best to bring your own if you have them.
  • Winter Disc Golf 
  • Daily campfires 
  • NEW Deer Scout Series programs include Nature Arts & Crafts and Muskoka-inspired demos
  • Family Trivia & Bingo
  • 19+ Trivia & Karaoke
  • Maple syrup treats & tastings
  • Treehouse Children’s Playspace, indoor pool and fitness room
  • Sonshine & Broccoli children’s show March 14th @ 2pm

Remember to enter the promotional code TODO in the PROMO CODE field when booking online. 
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO BOOK

BOOK A DEERHURST RESORT MARCH BREAK GETAWAY NOW


Easter Weekend at Deerhurst Resort

ToDoOntario - Deerhurst Resort, Easter kids

As the snow starts to give way to spring sunshine and the lake ice begins to melt, the first long weekend of spring turns extra sweet! Kids will love a special appearance by colourful and engaging children’s entertainers, Splash’N Boots, an indoor fun zone with fun and games plus an Easter Egg Hunt, maple treats, arts & crafts and more.

INCLUDED WITH YOUR EASTER WEEKEND STAY:

  • Indoor Fun Zone with inflatable fun and games!
  • Golden Egg Hunts – Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Find that day’s golden egg to win an overnight stay! 
  • Saturday Easter Egg Hunt
  • Scavenger Hunt & Hikes
  • Maple Syrup Treats and Tastings
  • Airbrush Tattoos by @glitterchixx – Saturday & Sunday
  • Daily Campfires
  • Kids Colouring Contest and Easter Arts & Crafts
  • Family Trivia & Bingo
  • Indoor pool, fitness room
  • Treehouse Children’s Playspace

Remember to enter the promotional code TODO in the PROMO CODE field when booking online. 
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO BOOK

BOOK A DEERHURST RESORT EASTER WEEKEND GETAWAY NOW


ABOUT DEERHURST RESORT:

Embracing Peninsula Lake, Deerhurst Resort is your year-round retreat for a Muskoka vacation or getaway to Ontario’s famous “cottage country.” It is ideal for fun-filled family vacations, year-round getaways, and group meetings.

ToDoOntarioDeerhurst Resort Vacation Package Promo Code
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Ontario Festivals Returning in 2024

It’s time to dust off your festival shoes and get ready to celebrate all the things.

Summer Festivals aren’t the only festivals either. The list below contains fall, spring and winter festivals too. 

There are so many festivals in Ontario to choose from. You really need to read the full list. From Ontario’s largest country music festival, Boots & Hearts to small and quaint small town festivals, you’ll find something to do and won’t be disappointed.

Stay tuned to this list as more festival announcements are made. 

2024 Festivals in Ontario

Outdoor Adventure Show

Celebrating: Outdoor activities and gear, adventure travel
Location: International Centre, Mississauga

ToDoOntario - Outdoor Adventure Show, Toronto

Date: February 23 – 25, 2024

Learn More 

Sweetwater Harvest Festival

Celebrating: Maple Syrup
Location: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre & Sainte Marie among the Hurons, Midland

To Do Ontario - Sweetwater Harvest Festival

Date: March 23 – 24, 2024

Learn More

Tap into Maple

Celebrating: Maple Syrup
Location: Various (Orillia & area region)

ToDoOntario - Orillia & Lake Country Tourism Tap into Maple

Date: March – April

Learn More

Beerhurst-at-Deehurst Craft Beer Festival

Celebrating: Ontario Craft Beer
Location: Deerhurst Resort, Huntsville

ToDoOntario - Beerhurst at Deerhurst Craft Beer Festival

Date: March 4 or weekend package March 1 – 3, 2024

Learn More

TO Food & Drink Fest

Celebrating: Food & Drink
Location: Toronto

ToDoOntario - Toronto Food & Drink Fest

Date: April 5 – 7, 2024

Learn More

Roots North Music Festival

Celebrating: Live Music
Location: Various venues across Orillia

ToDoOntario - Roots North Music Festival

Date: April 18 – 21, 2024

Learn More

Forest Festival

Celebrating: Women in Music
Location: Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve

ToDoOntario - Haliburton Forest Wildlife Reserve, Forest Festival

Date: TBA

Learn More

Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival

Celebrating: Butter Tarts
Location: Downtown Midland

ToDoOntario - Town of Midland, Ontario's Best Butter Tart Festival

Date: June 8, 2024

Learn More

Blue Mountain Village TD Salsa Festival

Celebrating: Salsa Dance
Location: Blue Mountain Village

ToDoOntario - Blue Mountain Village, TD Salsa Festival

Date: June 21 – 23, 2024.

Learn More

Mariposa Folk Festival

Celebrating: Folk (+) Music
Location: JB Tudhope Park, Orillia

ToDoOntario - Mariposa Folk Festival

Date: July 5 – 7, 2024

Learn More

Festival du Loup

Celebrating: Francophone Culture in Ontario
Location: Lafontaine, Ontario

ToDoOntario - Festival du Loup

Date: July 13, 2024

Learn More

Rama Pow Wow

Celebrating: Indigenous dancing and culture.
Location: Rama, Ontario

ToDoOntario - Rama Powwow

Date: August 24 – 25, 2024

Learn More

Tweed Stampede

Celebrating: Horse stampede, Country & Western
Location: Tweed, Ontario

ToDoOntario Ontario - Tweed Stampede

Date: Labour Day Weekend 

Learn More

Gussapolooza Music Festival

Celebrating: New, emerging, independent artists
Location: Cookstown, Ontario

ToDoOntario - Gussapolooza Music Festival

Date: TBA

Learn More

Country Live Laugh Love Music Festival

Celebrating: Country Music
Location: Barrie, Ontario

ToDoOntario, Live Laugh Love Festival

Date: TBA

Learn More

Other Notable Ontario Festivals Happening in 2024

Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Date: March 17, 2024.

Niagara Falls 420 Expo
Date: April 20, 2024.

Doors Open Toronto
Date: May 25 – 26, 2024.

Tall Pines Music & Art Festival
Date: June 19 – 20, 2024.

TD Salsa on St. Clair Festival
Date: July 6 – 7, 2024

Luminato Festival
Date: June 5 – 16, 2024.

TD Toronto Jazz Festival
Date: June 21 – 30, 2024.

PRIDE Toronto Festival Weekend 
Date: June 30, 2024.

Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Date: July 15 – August 4, 2024.


Ottawa Bluesfest
Date: July 4 – 14, 2024.

Ottawa Bluesfest Getaway @ Fairmont Fairmont Château Laurier

ToDoOntario - Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Ottawa

With its close proximity to LeBreton Flats, Fairmont Château Laurier is your perfect homebase during RBC Bluesfest.

BOOK NOW


Rock the Park Music Festival
Date: July 12 – 15

Festival of the Sound
Date: July 19 – August 5

Hillside Festival
Date: July 28 – 30

Toronto Food Truck Festival
Date: August 4 – 7

Kempenfest
Date: August 4 – 7

Boots and Hearts Music Festival
Date: August 10 – 13

TD Toronto JerkFest
Date: August 10 – 13

Alliston Potato Festival
Date: August 11 – 13

Taste of the Danforth
Date: TBA

CNE (Canadian National Exhibition)
Date: August 18 – September 4

TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival)
Date: TBA

Bala Cranberry Festival
Date: Weekend after Thanksgiving

Click Here For More Ontario Events


Festival Accommodations in Ontario

Some of the festivals in Ontario have on-site camping. However in some cases for multi-day festivals you might need to find accommodation. 

Many Ontario accommodations have great packages and offers. Packages that would help save you money or include activities.

Make sure to check the nearby hotels and resorts and see if they have any festival rates.

Check out these great Ontario Getaway Offers by season

Summer Getaway Offers 
Fall Getaway Offers
Winter Getaway Offers
Spring Getaway Offers


Are You Ontario Experienced? Find more things to do this summer in Ontario and read the ‘Are You Ontario Experienced  – Summer Edition blog‘. 

ToDoOntario - Are You Ontario Experienced - Summer Edition


Best Internet Rates at ChoiceHotels.com

ToDoOntarioOntario Festivals Returning in 2024
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After Dark Activities To Do in Ontario

The world is transformed after the sun dips below the horizon and night settles. Familiar experiences become new, new experiences enhanced.

The change from day to night impacts our senses. Since our vision is impeded, our sense of hearing is heightened, especially in a moonlit wild space. Every rustling branch or soft crunch of the snow is that much more intense. During a nighttime snowshoe trek or ski, pause and listen closely; that faint noise may well be an owl roosting above or the padding of a fox on the hunt.

In the right conditions, nighttime equally appeals to our sense of vision. When you escape the light pollution of urban areas the sky above suddenly becomes more expansive and more brilliant, the stars like billions of Christmas lights illuminating the night. Dining in an enclosed ice globe while gazing up at the brilliant constellation and surrounded by a moonlit landscape, for example, is one of the most memorable experiences you’ll ever enjoy. At night, events become more intimate, cozier.

But you don’t have leave urban areas to enjoy the appeal of night. You can explore cities through a whole new lens after the sun settles and streetlights pop on. Nightlife creates a whole new vibrancy, one of concerts and fine dining and the arts.

Experience all that Ontario offers after dark with this Ontario Nightlife ToDo List:

Scenic Caves Guided Night Snowshoe Hike

ToDoOntario - Scenic Caves Nordic Centre, night snowshoe hike

An unforgettable experience with experienced guides, trail pass, showshoes, headlamps.  Experience forest trails, lookout points and trek across Southern Ontario’s longest Suspension Bridge taking in the night sky over Georgian Bay and Collingwood.  Upon returning to the lodge, relax by the firepit enjoying a hot cider or hot chocolate with your fellow snowshoe hikers. Should there not be enough snow, guided night hikes will still run.  Guests will be provided with ice cleats, and a longer hiking experience exploring more of the trails. Dates:

Dates: Saturdays at 6pm in January and February.

January 20, 27 – February 3, 10

Saturdays at 6:30pm in March

March 2, 9, 16

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Saturday Nights at the Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery

ToDoOntario - Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery Skate Trail at Night

Light the Night Skate Pass  
Fire Lounge – outdoor propane fire table with 4 Muskoka Chairs  
Porch-Side Fire Pits – wood burning fire pits with 5 Muskoka Chairs near Café  
Ice Trail Fire Pits – trail-side, skate up, wood burning fire pits with benches (seats 6)  
Cheese Fondue & Wine  
Café – open 10 am to 9 pm (hot food ends at 8 pm)

 

All activities (besides shopping) can be booked up to a day ahead. The host will accommodate drop-ins when they can, but have limited capacity. Bookings are highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Uncorked: A Winter Culinary Experience

ToDoOntario - Adamo Estate Winery, Uncorked

Adamo Estate Winery invites you to embark on a journey of culinary delight with Uncorked – a winter experience like no other! Overlooking the vineyards, you’ll savour a cicchetti-style dinner in a cozy winter setting. Dress warmly, bring your favourite company, and prepare for an unforgettable evening. Uncorked is the perfect date night idea, promising warmth, flavour, and memories.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Snow Globes at Hockley Valley Resort

ToDoOntario - Hockley Valley Resort, snow globes dining

Experience this culinary theatre, the Snow Globes. Enjoy a farm to table, 5 course meal with wine pairings. Twinkling lights, your own music, faux fur throws, a heater (to take the chill off) and candlelight complete the setting.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Snow Valley Resort Night Snow Tubing, Snowboarding & Downhill Skiing

ToDoOntario - Snow Valley Resort, night skiers

Whether it’s a family activity, a gathering of old friends or a company social, snow tubing or playing on the ski hills at Snow Valley creates unique experiences and enjoyable times, especially at night. Night tickets cover 3 pm – 9 pm.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Guided Evening Snowshoe & Cookout @ Snow Valley Resort

ToDoOntario - Snow Valley Resort, moonlight snowshoe & chilli cookout

Ready for a magical night under the stars? Join Snow Valley Resort for an enchanting 1.5 to 2-hour guided snowshoe hike through a sparkling, snow-laden forest!

Torchlit Self-Guided Snowshoe Hike

Enjoy a self-guided Torchlit Snowshoe hike through the forests of Snow Valley. Over two hundred torches will light your way. Cozy up with your friends next to the bonfire to enjoy some complementary tasty treats.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Hockley Valley Resort Night Skiing

ToDoOntario - Hockley Valley Resort, entrance in winter

Just a short drive north of Toronto, you can enjoy the night lights on the hills of Hockley Valley Resort. 

Operating Hours

Monday                              1:00pm to 9:00pm

Tuesday to Saturday           9:00am to 9:00pm

Sundays                              9:00am to 5:00pm

Holidays                              9:00am to 9:00pm

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


The Skate Escape at Friday Harbour Resort

ToDoOntario - Friday Harbour Resort, The Skate Escape

Embrace the best of the winter season at Friday Harbour with ice skating, outdoor recreation offers, live entertainment, and more! 11 AM – 8 PM

    • Free Ice Skating in the Piazza
    • Skate and Equipment Rentals available
    • Après Skate Domes serving hot chocolate and handcrafted cocktails
    • Enjoy classic favourites and sweet treats from the FH Cabins, or dine at Lake Club Restaurant
    • Special activities and entertainment on the Promenade
    • Visit the Winter Outdoor Adventure Centre or join a game with our Recreation Team
    • Tee off at the Harbour Master Building on our TrackMan Golf Simulator
    • Shop and dine on special offers from our collection of Restaurants and Retail on the Promenade

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Beach Club After Dark @ Friday Harbour Resort

ToDoOntario - Friday Harbour Resort, Beach Club After Dark

Beach Club transforms into an after-dark lounge! Featuring DJ Donovan, dancing a late-night menu, and bottle service. Doors open at 9:00pm. Admission is free.

  • After Dark – Feb 10
  • After Dark – March 16

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Sharks After Dark at Ripley Aquarium of Canada

ToDoOntario - Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, Sharks After Dark

Starting at 5:00 p.m., guests can save $5.00 on tickets to experience all the wonders of the aquarium after dark. Whether you’re exploring Planet Jellies or watching the sharks swim in the Dangerous Lagoon, this opportunity is the perfect chance to visit outside of our peak hours!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Blumination at Blue Mountain Resort

ToDoOntario - Blue Mountain Village, Blumination Trail

Blumination Light Trail -DAILY | DUSK TO 10PM
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Village Light Trail, where every step unveils a new spectacle. Adorned with dazzling lights, this immersive pathway leads you through a winter wonderland, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season.

Woodview Mountain Top Skating – DAILY | 10AM-8PM*
Glide under the moonlight on our breathtaking mountaintop skating rink. Surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks, experience the magic of skating beneath a canopy of stars with friends and family. A perfect blend of adventure and romance awaits on the ice! Play-All-Day Pass Required. *Weather Permitting

Candelight Dining – VILLAGE WIDE
Indulge in a culinary delight with a Candlelight Dining experience. Savor delectable dishes in the warm glow of candlelight at Blue’s cozy village restaurants, offering an intimate and charming atmosphere that complements the winter night. It’s not just a meal; it’s a symphony of taste and atmosphere.

Night Skiing – DAILY | 3:30-9PM*
Blue Mountain Resort has the slopes open for night skiing, an exhilarating adventure for those seeking the adrenaline rush of carving through the snow under the moonlit sky. Experience the mountain in a whole new light! Valid Lift Tickets & Passes Required. *Weather Permitting

Shopping – DAILY | 10AM-7PM (9PM WEEKENDS)
Discover unique treasures as you shop under the stars at our charming village boutiques. Find the perfect gifts or treat yourself to a special memento from over 25 storefronts! Explore the best of brand-name designs and one-of-a-kind finds, all while surrounded by the magical ambiance of Blue Mountain Village. 

Night Tubing – DAILY | 12-8PM*
For an exhilarating rush, don’t miss a chance to experience Night Tubing at Blue! Slide down illuminated lanes under the starry sky, and let the laughter and thrill create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s tubing like you’ve never experienced before! Play-All-Day Pass required. *Weather Permitting

Winter DJ Series Presented by Liquid I.V. 
Feel the beat, embrace the rhythm, and dance like nobody’s watching at the Winter DJ Series presented by Liquid I.V.! Under the open sky, these DJs will turn the night into a pulsating, electrifying experience. Get ready to move and groove in the snow-covered paradise.

Fireside Grab n’ Go -DAILY 
Cozy up by the fire with Fireside Grab n’ Go. Indulge in winter treats and hot beverages that will keep you warm and energized for the night’s adventures. It’s the perfect pitstop to refuel and enjoy the crackling warmth of the fire.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Taste of Oakville

ToDoOntario - Taste of Oakville 2024

More than thirty-five restaurants from across Oakville will showcase an array of mouthwatering dishes via multi-course prix fixe lunch and dinner menus. Prices range from $20-$35 for lunch and $30-$65 for dinner.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Marsh by Moonlight Snowshoe Series

ToDoOntario - Wye Marsh, Moonlight Snowshoe February 2024

Snowshoe through the Wye Marsh on a frosty night, under sparkling stars and moonlight. Warm up by a cozy fire. Sip some cedar tea or hot chocolate. Take home memories that will last a lifetime, plus a unique Marsh by Moonlight souvenir.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Canada’s Most Unique Ice Bar

ToDoOntario - JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Crystal Head Vodka Icebar

Prepare to be entertained in a -15°C Ice Bar where guests will experience signature flights of Crystal Head Vodka expressions: Crystal Head Original made from Canadian corn, Aurora from English wheat, and Onyx crafted from premium Blue Weber agave.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


Fireside Après

 

ToDoOntario - Cobble Beach Fireside Après

Available every Friday and Saturday from 11:00am – 8:00pm. Nothing says Après quite like gathering around a crackling fire table in the brisk winter air with your closest friends. Bundle up and enjoy stunning winter views, delicious sharable food items and specialty hot beverages.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & TO BOOK


These are just a few of things you can do in Ontario. ToDoOntario.com is the best place to find events, activities and getaway packages to help you explore our great province all year long. 

ToDoOntarioAfter Dark Activities To Do in Ontario
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