Arts & Entertainment

Eustis alley to ignite with pop-up dance party on May 2

4/28/2026

A festive twist on a newer downtown tradition is set to transform a hidden alleyway into a vibrant dance party celebrating culture, community, and music. The next installment of the McCulloch Alley Pop-Up Concert series will trade its usual acoustic vibe for a high-energy, Cinco de Mayo-themed celebration.

Organized by the North Bay Collective, a grassroots group of local businesses, the May 2 event will spotlight Sol de Mexico, a Mexican restaurant and cornerstone collective member known for bringing authentic Mexican flavor and cultural connection to downtown Eustis.

“We wanted to do something a little different this month to match the spirit of Cinco de Mayo,” said Audra, secretary for Pinesmoke Bee Co. and Collective member. “With Sol de Mexico taking the lead, we’re trading the traditional concert vibe for an alleyway dance party. It’s all about celebrating the vibrant, diverse businesses that make our downtown thrive.”

Guests can expect upbeat tracks from DJ Lu, who will spin a mix of festive and high-energy favorites to create a fun atmosphere for dancing and celebration from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will follow the Collective’s “Golden Hour” schedule, allowing attendees to enjoy the late spring evening as the sun sets over the historic district.

Hosted in McCulloch Alley behind the Iron Block Building, the free event encourages visitors to explore downtown, grab a bite from local eateries, and experience one of Lake County’s unique hidden venues.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Mount Dora to turn blue for the annual Blueberry Festival on April 25–26

4/1/2026

One of Central Florida’s most festive spring celebrations kicks off as the Mount Dora Blueberry Festival returns to Donnelly Park on April 25–26. Set in the heart of downtown, the two-day event promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere filled with fresh flavors, blueberry-themed contests, local vendors, and small-town charm.

Visitors can expect a bustling festival centered around Central Florida’s blueberry harvest, including a pie-eating contest, a blueberry pancake breakfast, and dozens of vendors offering everything from fresh-picked berries to blueberry pies, cobblers, jams, and a variety of fresh baked goods. Food stands will line the park, serving up creative takes on the festival’s namesake fruit.
The easiest way to get to and from the festival is to take the hassle-free shuttle from 900 Lincoln Avenue at the corner of Highland Street. The shuttle will run both days from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with the paid-parking lot proceeds benefitting the local Kiwanis. Visitors can follow the posted signage directing them to the shuttle parking areas, where continuous shuttles will transport guests to and from downtown. Arriving early is recommended for the best parking options and a more leisurely experience before peak afternoon crowds.

Beyond the festival itself, the surrounding downtown area offers even more to explore, from boutique shops and cafés to lakefront views just a short walk away. Some local businesses join in the celebration with specials and blueberry-themed menu items of their own.

The festivals runs both days from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Find downtown's parking map and Freebee shuttle information here.

Mount Dora’s historic downtown district is known for its quaint streets, preserved early 20th-century architecture, and welcoming, small-town feel. Often described as one of Florida’s most charming destinations, the area blends history, local culture, and scenic beauty—making it an ideal backdrop for its full schedule of annual festivals.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Outdoor inspiration to be in full bloom at Mount Dora's Vintage Garden Show

4/1/2026

Spring has sprung and the warmer weather means more time in the garden.

This season’s inspiration for all types of gardens will be sprawled under the oaks in Mount Dora at the annual Vintage Garden Show held on April 4 & 5. The two-day event will host vintage vendors selling everything from up-cycled outdoor decor, plants, architectural wrought iron, vintage patio furniture, as well as a mix of curiosities just waiting to be repurposed.

The Vintage Garden Show runs both days from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Renningers Antique Center located at 20651 US 441 in Mount Dora. Admission and parking are free and food is available for purchase.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Lake County Plant and Pottery Festival Returns to Tavares in MAY

3/1/2026

The spring calendar in Lake County just got a little more creative – and greener. On Sunday, May 3, plant lovers and art fans alike are invited to the Lake County Plant and Pottery Festival at Far Reach Ranch in Tavares. This laid-back, family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and promises something for everyone — from artisan pottery and exotic plants, to a variety of food trucks, music and farm fun.

Set on the scenic grounds of Far Reach Ranch at 1255 South Dora Boulevard, the festival brings together talented potters showcasing their creations and local specialty plant nurseries in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Visitors can browse a variety of unique plant varieties and handcrafted pottery pieces ranging from conceptual sculptural work to beautifully glazed bowls, mugs, dishes and more from dozens of local artists and vendors. Guests can also enjoy a vinyl DJ and full bar, grab a bite to eat from a handful of tasty food truck vendors, and even check out blueberry farm activities. Live pottery demonstrations will also take place.

Far Reach Ranch is just a short drive from both downtown Mount Dora and downtown Tavares — roughly 10–15 minutes depending on traffic through the scenic Lake County countryside. With its mix of art, greenery, music and food, and a bounce house, the festival offers a different vibe from the town centers’ historic streets and lakefront parks, but remains the perfect complement to the area’s springtime events.

The ranch is a family-owned farm and agritourism destination located off State Road 19 in Tavares. Known for its u-pick blueberries and seasonal events, the ranch has become a popular gathering spot for locals looking to experience Lake County’s rural charm. Throughout the year, Far Reach Ranch, formerly a cattle ranch, hosts community events that highlight agriculture, small businesses and outdoor fun. With its open fields, farm atmosphere, and easy access from nearby towns, the venue offers a beautiful setting that blends country living with community celebrations.

Admission and parking for the one-day festival are free, and the chill vibe makes it a great outing whether your goal is to find the perfect piece of pottery, to add something green to your home, or just to enjoy a sunny weekend in Central Florida.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Taiko Drums, Food and Fun at Eustis Japan Festival

3/1/2026

The streets of downtown Eustis will have a splash of Asia this spring when the Japan Festival comes to town on Saturday, March 28. The free festival runs from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. along Magnolia Avenue and offers a relaxed, family-friendly way to celebrate Japanese culture in the heart of this North Lake County community.

Organized by the Arching Oaks Japanese Arts & Culture Center, a local non-profit dedicated to promoting traditional Japanese arts, crafts and martial arts, the festival aims to introduce visitors to a range of cultural experiences. Expect a variety of stage performances throughout the day, including taiko drumming, traditional dance, martial arts demonstrations like kyudo and kendo, and a koto harp concert. There will also be hands-on workshops in origami, calligraphy, ikebana (flower arranging) and more. Interactive gaming booths, a kids’ zone, with crafts and games, food vendors serving Japanese-inspired fare, and even a cosplay contest add to the festive vibe. So, whether you’re curious about Japanese arts and culture, or just want to enjoy an entertaining spring day, the festival promises a relaxed cultural celebration for all ages.

The one-day event takes place in historic downtown Eustis, known for its small-town vibe. It’s just a short drive from nearby towns like Mount Dora — about 10–15 minutes east — and equally easy to reach from other parts of Lake County.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Spring Festival of Arts & Crafts Blooms in Mount Dora in March

3/1/2026

ABOVE: Vendor of Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts & Crafts (Mount Dora Buzz file photo)

The Central Florida lakefront town known for keeping its calendar full of festivals is ready to welcome spring with creative vibes. On March 21 and 22, downtown Mount Dora’s historic streets will once again bustle with visitors for the annual Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts, a two-day celebration marking the season’s arrival.

The free outdoor event features about 250 vendors offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and home décor to original artwork and specialty gifts. Food vendors will also be on the streets serving up festival favorites. Beyond the booths, downtown Mount Dora’s locally-owned specialty shops and eclectic restaurants will remain open throughout the weekend, giving guests even more reasons to stroll, shop and linger.

The festival has evolved over the years. It began as the Mount Dora Antique and Collectible Show before becoming the Mount Dora Spring Show, and eventually the Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts. In 2020, the event — then in its previous incarnation — ranked No. 49 on Sunshine Artist Magazine’s list of the Top 200 Contemporary/Classic Craft Festivals in America. The spring festival still draws praise and crowds. It’s a separate event from the larger Mount Dora Arts Festival held each February, which is organized by Mount Dora Center for the Arts.
Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

dmission is free. Pets are discouraged. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early for the best public and private parking options, and to watch for signage directing them to available park-and-ride shuttle locations. Learn more about the city’s Freebee shuttles here.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Off the Beaten Path Arts Tour returns to Lake County February 14 and 15

2/2/2026

Lake County artists will once again invite the public into their private creative spaces during the annual Off the Beaten Path Florida Arts Tour, a self-guided event that highlights the region’s vibrant arts community.

The two-day tour takes place Feb. 14 and 15 and features 26 artists working in more than a dozen studios across Leesburg, Tavares, Mount Dora, and Eustis. The event offers visitors a rare opportunity to see where art is created and to meet the artists behind the work.

Guests can watch live demonstrations, enjoy light refreshments and browse a wide variety of original artwork available for purchase. Works on display include paintings, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry and printmaking, reflecting a broad range of styles and media.

All participating studios will be open both days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free. The tour is self-guided, allowing visitors to choose their own route and pace as they explore studios throughout north Lake County.

Organizers say the annual event is designed to connect the community with local artists while encouraging residents and visitors to explore creative spaces that are often tucked away off the main roads.

Additional details, including a list of participating artists and studio locations, are available at ArtsTour.org.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Bagpipes, kilts and cabers return as Mount Dora hosts Scottish Highland Festival

1/30/2026

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ABOVE: Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival (Mount Dora Buzz file photo)

Bagpipes will fill the air and kilts will once again be on full display during the 13th Annual Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival, set for Feb. 20 - 22.

The three-day celebration invites residents and visitors to dive into Scottish heritage with a lively mix of music, dance, athletics, food and cultural traditions — all in a relaxed, family-friendly setting that has become a local favorite.

The festival kicks off Friday evening, Feb. 20, with a traditional Scottish Cèilidh at the Mount Dora Music Hall inside the Community Building. The opening-night gathering features live Celtic music and Highland dancing, offering an energetic start to the weekend. Admission to the Cèilidh is $12.

Festivities move outdoors over the weekend at Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St., and Elizabeth Evans Park, 100 N. Donnelly St. The two-day park festival transforms downtown into a celebration of all things Scottish, with activities designed to appeal to longtime fans and first-time visitors.

Throughout the weekend, live performances will keep the grounds buzzing. The lineup includes Albannach, The Harp Twins, Poehemia, Celtica Nova, the Seán Heely Celtic Band, Thomas Keefer, traditional Irish dancers and more, offering everything from driving drumbeats to melodic harp and fiddle tunes.

Visitors can stroll through the Heritage Village and vendor areas to explore Scottish history and traditions, watch skilled artisans at work, and sample authentic food and beverage offerings. Special exhibits on Saturday will feature Border Collies and Highland cows, giving guests a closer look at animals closely tied to Scottish culture.

One of the festival’s most popular attractions returns with Scottish Highland athletics, where tough competitors demonstrate strength and skill in classic events such as the caber toss, hammer throw and stone put — a crowd favorite year after year.

Admission can be paid at the gate and is $22 each day, with the exception of the concert on Friday which has a $12 admission. Complimentary parking and shuttle service will be available at First Baptist Church, 1000 E. 1st Avenue, with shuttles running Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

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One of Florida's best art festivals returns to Mount Dora on January 31 and February 1

1/2/2026

The streets of quaint Mount Dora will host fine artists from around the country as visitors peruse original paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, art glass, mixed media, sculptures, woodwork and more on January 31 and February 1 for the 50th Annual Mount Dora Art Festival.

RELATED:  Mount Dora Parking tips and free shuttles

Approximately 300 artists exhibit and sell their artwork, as well as compete for cash prizes.  Festival food, beer, wine, and cocktails will be available at kiosks throughout the festival and restaurants will be open for dining and cocktails. The Central Florida Dance Festival will also showcase a variety of dance numbers in Donnelly Park.

RELATED:  Discover Mount Dora's local entertainment calendar

Street parking is very limited, but there is a Freebee shuttle available. It's advisable to arrive early for the most parking options. Private lots will also have parking available for a fee.

The festival is free and its hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. Pets are discouraged.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for  more local info.

Central Florida Film Festival celebrates its 20th Year

1/1/2026

Move over Cannes, the Central Florida Film Festival will mark its 20th year January 23 through 25 while screening more than 185 films in Mount Dora. The event is expected to draw filmmakers, industry professionals and film enthusiasts for a weekend of independent cinema and live discussions.

The international festival typically screens comedies, dramas, science-fiction, suspense, horror and adventure genres. The event will also feature filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, networking events, special guests and audience choice awards. Organizers say the event remains focused on supporting independent creators and strengthening connections within Central Florida’s arts community.

All screenings will be held at the 12-screen Epic Theatre located at 2300 Spring Harbor Boulevard, just off U.S. Highway 441. A schedule of flim blocks, panel topics and guest announcements is below.

Founded in 2005, the nonprofit festival has grown into a respected regional showcase recognized for its programming and filmmaker-friendly environment.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

Mount Dora's sprawling Antique Extravaganza returns Nov. 14-16

11/1/2025

For those seeking priceless treasure or others just curious about the oddities, Mount Dora’s Antique Extravaganza never disappoints. On November 14, 15 and 16, Mount Dora will once again, be home to Central Florida's massive and eclectic shopping experience at Renningers Antique Center. The sprawling indoor and outdoor venue hosts the event, regarded as the mother lode of vintage and antique shopping, three times a year among picturesque hills under majestic oaks.

Make no mistake. There is antique shopping and then there is shopping the “Extravo.” That’s the term seasoned buyers and “pickers” use for Renningers' event that boasts nearly 800 dealers during its three-day run spread on a scenic portion of a 130-acre property on the eastern edge of the city.

RELATED: Find the holiday events for Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis.

Dealers from across the U.S. descend on Mount Dora to offer an endless variety of vintage finds and fine antiques at every price. Eager collectors, decorators and vintage shoppers from across Florida show up in droves to uncover treasures, find the best deals and practice their haggling.

Extravos only happen in November, January and February. Loyal shoppers and the curious can roam the hills from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday admission costs more ($10), but eager shoppers get first dibs on hard-to-find treasures. Saturday is $6, but Sunday shoppers get the lowest admission price ($4), and often better bargains, however some vendors do pack up early.

RELATED: View the local entertainment calendar for other events.

Parking is always plentiful and free for the Renningers Extravaganzas. Renninger’s Antique Center is located at 20651 US Hwy 441.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair returns for its 30th year on November 1 & 2

10/28/2025

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Novice and ardent gardeners will flock to downtown Mount Dora for the 30th annual Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair on November 1 and 2.

The outdoor event is held under the tree canopy at Donnelly Park in the heart of the city’s historic downtown.

The free festival features almost 100 vendors selling native and exotic plants from nurseries across Florida, as well as merchants selling garden decor and nature-inspired gifts. Gardeners can expect to find blooming orchids, flowering shrubs, fruit trees and camellias, as well as succulents, bamboo, bromeliads, herbs, bonzai and other specialty plant vendors. There will also be vintage garden items and statuary for sale to enhance outdoor spaces. Experts will be on hand to offer advice on plant care and gardening-related topics.

RELATED: View the local entertainment calendar for more events

Food and beverages will be available for purchase and a limited number of volunteers will help cart plants to cars, so visitors don’t have to fret about buying plants too big to carry.

The hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Drivers should look for signs for nearby public and private parking lots.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.  Be sure to follow  Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram

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Mount Dora Craft Fair kicks of festival season on October 25 & 26

10/1/2025

As fall temperatures slowly return, so does one of Central Florida's biggest events. The streets of downtown Mount Dora transform into a sprawling craft fair on October 25 and 26 with hundreds of crafters from across the country.

The Mount Dora Craft Fair is a nationally ranked craft fair and features an eclectic mix of handmade items ranging from jewelry, photography and textiles to paintings, leather goods and woodwork. The two-day event has previously attracted approximately 100,000 visitors, according to its organizers.

Crafts aren’t all there will be in downtown Mount Dora that weekend.  Its many unique stores and seemingly endless restaurants are also open during the craft fair’s hours to accommodate shoppers and diners.

The festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking restrictions begin downtown in the late afternoon on Friday to allow for the craft vendors to set up. Street parking during the festival is limited, so as visitors drive into Mount Dora, they are encouraged to look for signs for park-and-ride shuttles. There are also private parking lots with paid parking available closer to the event and the Freebie shuttle service. Get more info on the free shuttles here.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.  Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Pit Masters & Pourers Brings BBQ, Bourbon and Brews Back to Mount Dora

9/1/2025

Where beer, bourbon, bacon and barbecue collide, the Pit Masters & Pourers event returns to Elizabeth Evans Park on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, offering a fun afternoon of food, drinks and entertainment along Lake Dora’s waterfront.

The event runs from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 100 N. Donnelly Street and will feature live performances by Naome Bradshaw & The Dot Coms at 4 p.m., followed by a wrestling showdown at 5:30 p.m. featuring Angelique “The Dancing Queen,” Amber Nova and Teal Piper. Guests can also enjoy activities throughout the day, including cornhole games, a cigar lounge and streamed college football on a big screen.

Beer, bourbon, bacon and barbecue sampling from local and regional vendors will take place from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with voting for crowd favorites closing before the Backyard BBQ Challenge awards ceremony at 7:45 p.m. Members of the media have been invited to judge the BBQ competition and help crown the Pitmasters champion.

Advance tickets are $17 or $20 at the gate, and the event is suggested for attendees 18 and older. Handicap parking will be available near the venue, with general parking located downtown. Find downtown parking tips here.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Mount Dora Center for the Arts opens beautiful second location

8/1/2025

ABOVE: Mount Dora Center for the Arts new uptown location. (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

After much community anticipation and an impressive transformation, Mount Dora Center for the Arts (MDCA) opened its second site on the corner of 5th Avenue and Highland Street in uptown. In its past incarnation, the streamlined modern building was a retro gas station and sat vacant for several years creating an unsightly impression at one of Mount Dora’s gateways. Those days are gone.

MDCA’s new building is approximately 2,000 square feet, which includes approximately 1,000 square feet of gallery space. The other half of the one-story will be used for classes, potential event venue rental, and flexible space. On the west side of the property is an area intended for a sculpture garden.

MDCA is now offering public art tours on Segways which begin at the new center.
Painting classes are already scheduled at the uptown center that people can sign up for at www.mountdoraart.org. MDCA’s new building has ample on-site parking and will be open Tuesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a docent on site for the gallery Thursday through Sunday.

The decades-long downtown location, on 5th Avenue across from Donnelly Park, will remain open and continue to have its popular classes and art exhibitions. That brick building is now embroiled in litigation due to G3 Development, LLC (G3) court filings. Last year, G3, the landlord at the downtown location, lost its attempt to evict the 50-year-old non-profit which has paid its rent while supporting the local art community and children's programs. That two-story building was owned and occupied by MDCA since 1995 until its former board voted in April 2024 to sell the building to G3, whose principal is Gerry Guenther, for approximately $1.3 million.

The complex deal to acquire the brick building had three agreements between the two parties, and has since resulted in ongoing litigation. There is a lease agreement whereby G3 would be MDCA’s landlord, a mortgage agreement whereby G3 would be the borrower and the art center would be the lender, and a sponsorship agreement with the developer becoming a long-term sponsor of the annual Mount Dora Arts Festival. Additionally, G3 was to construct a new 4,600 square-foot, custom-designed building for the non-profit to lease from the developer. The site of that building was to be in the vacant lot on Royellou Lane directly behind the existing MDCA building. To date, that building hasn’t come to fruition or broken ground.

In January of this year a circuit court judge dismissed two counts without prejudice of a four-count lawsuit G3 brought against MDCA. One of the dismissals included the developer’s attempt to evict the art center from the building (see judge's rulings attached below). G3 then filed an Amended Claim for Eviction, regardless of the court's prior order and placed an oversized “for lease" sign obstructing the window of MDCA's currently-leased gallery in the building. The conspicuous sign remained up for the 90-day maximum allowed by Mount Dora’s code and then was reinstalled which reset the clock for another 90 days.

JUDGES ORDERS REGARDING G3 LAWSUIT

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In addition to organizing the top-ranked Mount Dora Arts Festival, MDCA also offers various art programs for all ages and experience levels throughout the year. Its annual summer camp for school-age children is one of the area’s most popular summer programs. The center’s ground-floor downtown gallery features monthly art exhibits of established and emerging artists.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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