All posts in “Carnival”

Top School Carnival & Field Day Ideas for 2026

Top School Carnival & Field Day Ideas for 2026

Top School Carnival & Field Day Ideas for 2026

Spring means one thing for schools, PTOs, and camps across the NY Tri-State area — carnival and field day season is coming. These events give students something exciting to look forward to while helping schools bring families together and even raise funds.

If you’re planning a school event this year, choosing the right entertainment makes all the difference. Here are the top attractions and ideas schools are booking for 2026 to create unforgettable events.


🎪 1. Inflatable Obstacle Courses

Obstacle courses are always a student favorite. They allow multiple participants at once and keep lines moving quickly.

They’re perfect for:

  • Field day competitions
  • Team challenges
  • Older elementary and middle school students

Obstacle courses add energy and excitement while encouraging friendly competition.


🏰 2. Bounce Houses & Combo Units

For younger grades, bounce houses and combo inflatables remain the top attraction.

Combo units offer:

  • Jumping areas
  • Slides
  • Basketball hoops
  • Obstacles inside

This gives kids more to do and keeps them entertained longer.


🏀 3. Interactive Sports Games

Sports-themed inflatables are huge hits because they appeal to all ages.

Popular options include:

  • Giant basketball shootouts
  • Soccer goal kick challenges
  • Football toss games
  • Tee ball challenges

These games are perfect for friendly competition between classes or teams.


🎯 4. Carnival Game Booths

Traditional carnival games create the classic school fair feel and are perfect for fundraisers.

Popular booth games include:

  • Ring toss
  • Can smash
  • Prize wheels
  • Balloon darts
  • Tabletop carnival games

They’re easy to set up and great for younger kids.


🕹️ 5. Arcade & Game Zones

Schools are increasingly adding arcade zones for older students.

Popular attractions include:

  • Claw machines
  • Basketball arcade games
  • Racing simulators
  • VR experiences
  • Classic arcade machines

Game zones attract both kids and parents and help spread crowds across event areas.


🚂 6. Trackless Trains & Mechanical Rides

For large school carnivals, adding a ride creates a centerpiece attraction.

Favorites include:

  • Trackless train rides
  • Kiddie carousel rides
  • Mechanical attractions
  • Spin rides

These rides draw crowds and elevate the event experience.


🍿 7. Fun Food Stations

No carnival is complete without fun food.

Top sellers:

  • Cotton candy
  • Popcorn
  • Snow cones
  • Mini donuts
  • Waffle pops

Food stations help fundraise while adding to the carnival atmosphere.


📅 Book Early for Spring Events

Spring event dates fill up quickly, and many schools book months in advance to secure the best attractions.

Working with an experienced entertainment provider ensures:

  • Safe setup and operation
  • Proper staffing
  • Smooth event flow
  • Entertainment for all age groups

🎉 Make Your 2026 School Event Unforgettable

Whether you’re planning a field day, fundraiser, or end-of-year carnival, the right entertainment turns a good event into an unforgettable one.

Amazing Amusements provides full-service school carnival and field day entertainment throughout the NY Tri-State area, offering inflatables, rides, games, and attractions for events of all sizes.

plan ultimate purim carnival

How to Plan the Ultimate Purim Carnival & Family Fun Day for Your Community or School

How to Plan the Ultimate Purim Carnival & Family Fun Day for Your Community or School

Purim is one of the most joyful holidays of the year, making it the perfect time to host a lively carnival or family fun day. Communities, schools, synagogues, and organizations use Purim celebrations to bring families together with costumes, games, food, and exciting entertainment.

If you’re planning a Purim event this year, a well-organized carnival packed with attractions and activities can turn your celebration into a highlight everyone looks forward to annually. Here’s a complete guide to planning a successful Purim carnival that keeps guests entertained from start to finish.


Why Purim Is Perfect for a Carnival Event

Purim naturally lends itself to carnival-style celebrations. The holiday encourages fun, costumes, and community participation, making it ideal for large-scale events.

A Purim carnival allows organizers to:

  • Bring families together in a festive environment
  • Offer activities for children of all ages
  • Create fundraising opportunities for schools and organizations
  • Build stronger community engagement
  • Provide safe, structured entertainment for kids

When done right, Purim events become yearly traditions families eagerly anticipate.


Must-Have Attractions for a Successful Purim Event

The key to a great carnival is offering a variety of attractions so every guest finds something they love. Popular Purim event rentals include:

Inflatable Games & Interactive Attractions

Interactive inflatables create excitement and keep energy levels high. Favorites include:

  • Safe Archery Challenge
  • Double Axe Throw
  • Sneaker Basketball
  • Obstacle courses
  • Bounce houses and combo units
  • Interactive sports challenges

These attractions encourage friendly competition and are perfect for both kids and teens.

VR & Arcade Experiences

Adding modern entertainment draws older kids and teens into the event. Attractions like:

  • VR motion simulators
  • Racing simulators
  • Classic arcade games
  • Multiplayer arcade consoles

These experiences give your event a unique edge and keep guests entertained longer.

Carnival Game Booths

Traditional tabletop carnival games remain crowd favorites and are perfect for prize-winning fun. They’re great for ticket systems and fundraising efforts while keeping lines moving smoothly.


Activities for All Age Groups

A successful Purim carnival caters to everyone.

Toddler-Friendly Areas

Set aside a safe zone with:

  • Soft play areas
  • Toddler inflatables
  • Simple carnival games
  • Face painting or craft tables

Entertainment for Older Kids & Teens

Teens often look for more exciting challenges. Consider:

  • Competitive sports games
  • VR rides
  • Interactive inflatables
  • Skill-based carnival challenges

Family-Friendly Competitions

Encourage parents and kids to participate together with:

  • Costume contests
  • Family relay games
  • Team competitions
  • Purim trivia or scavenger hunts

Food Stations Complete the Experience

No carnival feels complete without treats. Popular event additions include:

  • Popcorn machines
  • Cotton candy stations
  • Sno-cone machines
  • Hot food vendors
  • Hamantaschen and themed Purim snacks

Food stations also help spread guests across the event, reducing congestion around attractions.


Tips to Keep Your Event Running Smoothly

Plan Event Flow

Arrange attractions so crowds spread evenly. Avoid placing all major rides in one area.

Use Ticket or Wristband Systems

This helps control lines while supporting fundraising efforts.

Staff Attractions Properly

Ensure rides and games are supervised to keep guests safe and lines moving efficiently.

Schedule Entertainment

Consider magic shows, performers, or contests at scheduled times to keep guests engaged throughout the event.


Customize Attractions to Fit Your Budget & Space

Every venue and budget is different. Some events need just a few attractions, while others create full-scale carnival experiences.

Working with an experienced event rental company allows you to customize entertainment based on:

  • Available space
  • Budget requirements
  • Expected attendance
  • Age group demographics

Packages can be adjusted so every event feels exciting without overspending.


Book Early — Purim Dates Fill Fast

Purim is one of the busiest times of year for event rentals. Schools and community organizations often reserve attractions weeks or even months in advance.

Booking early ensures you get the most popular rides, games, and entertainment options for your preferred date.


Make This Year’s Purim Event Unforgettable

A well-planned Purim carnival brings smiles to children, excitement to families, and creates lasting memories for your community. With the right combination of attractions, games, and entertainment, your event can become the celebration everyone talks about long after the holiday ends.

Amazing Amusements specializes in creating unforgettable Purim events with inflatable attractions, carnival games, VR experiences, and interactive entertainment tailored to your needs and space.

For Purim event rentals or to customize your carnival package:

🌐 amazingamusementsonline.com
📞 (718) 475-7675

Book early and let the celebration begin!

10 Interactive Attractions That Turn Any Event Into an Unforgettable Experience

10 Interactive Attractions That Turn Any Event Into an Unforgettable Experience

When planning an event—whether it’s a school carnival, corporate gathering, camp event, or private party—one thing matters more than anything else: the experience your guests walk away with.

Food and décor set the mood, but interactive attractions are what guests actually remember. The right entertainment doesn’t just fill space—it creates excitement, draws crowds, and keeps people engaged from start to finish.

At Amazing Amusements, we specialize in high-impact, interactive event rentals that transform ordinary events into unforgettable experiences. Here are 10 interactive attractions that consistently steal the spotlight and keep guests talking long after the event ends.

1. VR Motion Simulators

Few attractions stop people in their tracks like Virtual Reality Motion Simulators. These immersive rides combine cutting-edge VR visuals with full motion movement, creating a thrilling experience that feels futuristic and unforgettable.

Perfect for: Corporate events, brand activations, mitzvahs, festivals

Why it works: High-tech, eye-catching, and exciting for all ages

2. Toxic Meltdown

If you want energy, competition, and a crowd magnet, Toxic Meltdown delivers every time. Up to eight players jump, duck, and dodge rotating arms in a fast-paced challenge that’s as fun to watch as it is to play.

Perfect for: School events, team building, carnivals

Why it works: Non-stop action that draws spectators instantly

3. King Kong Swing

Big, bold, and impossible to ignore, the King Kong Swing is a thrill ride that creates instant excitement. With the ability to accommodate multiple riders at once, it’s a guaranteed hit at large events.

Perfect for: Festivals, corporate outings, community events

Why it works: Massive visual impact + pure adrenaline

4. Ninja Wall / Free Fall

Looking for something challenging and exciting? The Ninja Wall Free Fall combines climbing skill with a thrilling drop, giving guests a rush they won’t forget.

Perfect for: Teens, adults, athletic crowds

Why it works: Encourages participation, competition, and repeat attempts

5. Inflatable Obstacle Courses

Inflatable obstacle courses are a classic for a reason. They’re fast, competitive, and perfect for friendly races between friends, coworkers, or classmates.

Perfect for: Field days, camps, corporate team building

Why it works: High throughput and nonstop engagement

6. Bubble Hockey & Arcade Games

Sometimes nostalgia is the biggest draw. Bubble hockey and classic arcade games bring people together for friendly competition and quick-play fun.

Perfect for: Corporate events, lounges, mitzvahs

Why it works: Easy to play, universally loved, great for all ages

7. Photo Booth with Props & Unlimited Prints

A photo booth isn’t just entertainment—it’s a takeaway. Guests love snapping photos, using props, and leaving with a printed memory of your event.

Perfect for: Weddings, mitzvahs, corporate events

Why it works: Built-in souvenirs and social media sharing

8. Bungee Trampoline

Few attractions are as visually exciting as a bungee trampoline. Guests flip, jump, and soar high into the air while safely harnessed.

Perfect for: Outdoor events, festivals, school carnivals

Why it works: Huge crowd appeal and unforgettable visuals

9. Foam Parties & Foam Pits

Foam parties instantly turn any space into a celebration. With music, energy, and mountains of foam, it’s impossible not to have fun.

Perfect for: Camps, summer events, birthday parties

Why it works: Unique, interactive, and pure excitement

10. Tabletop Carnival Games

Tabletop carnival games are perfect for guests who want quick, casual fun. They work well alongside larger attractions and keep lines moving smoothly.

Perfect for: School carnivals, fundraisers, family events

Why it works: Great for all ages and easy to rotate players

How to Choose the Right Mix of Attractions

The best events combine:

High-energy attractions (thrill rides, inflatables)

Casual interactive games (arcade, tabletop games)

Experience-based entertainment (photo booths, VR)

This balance keeps guests engaged longer and ensures there’s something for everyone.

Why Choose Amazing Amusements?

Amazing Amusements provides top-quality event rentals throughout the NY Tri-State area, offering:

Professionally maintained equipment

Experienced, friendly staff

A massive inventory of interactive attractions

Reliable service from setup to breakdown

Whether you’re planning a school carnival, corporate event, mitzvah, festival, or private party, we help bring your vision to life.

Ready to Elevate Your Event?

Let Amazing Amusements help you create an unforgettable experience your guests will rave about.

📞 Call: (718) 475-7675

🌐 Visit: https://amazingamusementsonline.com

How PTOs Can Raise Funds with a School Carnival | Complete Fundraising Guide

Why School Carnivals Are One of the Best PTO Fundraisers

School carnivals are proven fundraising winners because they:

  • Appeal to all grade levels
  • Encourage family participation
  • Create multiple revenue streams
  • Strengthen school community spirit
  • Are scalable for small or large budgets

Unlike single-item fundraisers, carnivals generate income from many sources at once—games, food, raffles, wristbands, and sponsorships.


Step 1: Choose the Right Carnival Format

Before booking anything, decide what type of carnival fits your school:

🎪 Popular PTO Carnival Formats

  • Traditional Carnival – Games, inflatables, food booths
  • Field Day + Carnival Combo – Daytime activities + evening fun
  • Fall Festival / Spring Fling – Seasonal theme boosts turnout
  • Indoor Carnival – Perfect for winter or rainy seasons

👉 Tip: Outdoor carnivals typically generate 30–50% more revenue due to larger attractions.


Step 2: Pick High-Earning Attractions

Not all games are equal when it comes to fundraising.

💰 Top Money-Making Carnival Attractions

  • Inflatable obstacle courses
  • Giant inflatable slides
  • Dunk tanks (teacher dunk = BIG draw!)
  • Sports challenges (basketball, soccer, football toss)
  • Carnival game booths (ring toss, balloon pop, can smash)

Pro Tip: Attractions that serve multiple kids per hour produce the highest ROI.


Step 3: Use Wristbands & Tickets Strategically

🎟️ Best Pricing Models for PTO Carnivals

  • Unlimited Wristbands ($20–$35 per child)
  • Ticket Bundles (20 tickets for $10)
  • VIP Wristbands (fast pass or bonus perks)

💡 Most successful PTOs use a hybrid model:
Unlimited rides + tickets for food & premium games.


Step 4: Add High-Profit Fundraising Boosters

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https://i.pinimg.com/236x/3d/f0/07/3df0071144fceb09c9fa3ec3b18696b5.jpg
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Extra Revenue Ideas

  • Raffle baskets donated by parents
  • Teacher experiences (Principal for a Day!)
  • Face painting & glitter tattoos
  • Cake walk
  • Prize redemption booth
  • Silent auction for families & staff

These add-ons often generate pure profit with minimal cost.


Step 5: Secure Local Sponsorships

Local businesses LOVE school exposure.

🏪 Sponsorship Ideas

  • Logo banners at the carnival
  • Sponsored inflatables or game booths
  • Business name on wristbands or flyers
  • PA announcements during the event

🎯 Even 10 sponsors at $250 each = $2,500 raised before the carnival starts.


Step 6: Promote Early & Often

📣 PTO Carnival Marketing Checklist

  • Flyers in backpacks
  • School email blasts
  • PTO Facebook & WhatsApp groups
  • Lawn signs & school banners
  • Early-bird wristband discounts

⏰ Start promotion 4–6 weeks in advance for maximum turnout.


Step 7: Partner with a Professional Carnival Vendor

A professional school carnival provider:

  • Supplies insured, commercial-grade equipment
  • Handles setup & breakdown
  • Provides trained staff (optional)
  • Ensures safety compliance
  • Helps maximize attraction flow & profits

This allows PTO volunteers to focus on fundraising—not logistics.


How Much Can a PTO Raise with a School Carnival?

School Size Typical Net Profit
300 students $5,000 – $8,000
500 students $8,000 – $15,000
800+ students $15,000 – $30,000+

Results depend on pricing, promotion, and attraction mix—but the upside is significant.


Sample PTO Carnival Fundraising Plan

  • 300 wristbands × $25 = $7,500
  • Raffles & auctions = $2,000
  • Food sales = $1,500
  • Sponsorships = $2,500

Total Gross: $13,500
Estimated Net: $8,000–$10,000+


Final Thoughts

A well-planned school carnival is:

  • Fun for families
  • Easy for PTO volunteers
  • Profitable for schools
  • Memorable for students

With the right strategy, vendors, and promotion, PTOs can turn one afternoon into their top fundraiser of the year.

Kids enjoying school carnival rides by Amazing Amusements

10 Creative Ideas to Make Your School Carnival Unforgettable

10 Creative Ideas to Make Your School Carnival Unforgettable

School carnivals are more than just fun and games — they’re opportunities for communities to come together, raise funds, and create memories that students, parents, and teachers will cherish for years. Planning one can feel overwhelming, but with the right mix of activities, rides, and entertainment, your carnival can go from good to unforgettable.

At Amazing Amusements, we’ve helped schools across the Tri-State area bring their events to life. Here are 10 creative ideas to make your school carnival a guaranteed hit.


1. Interactive Inflatable Obstacle Courses

Obstacle courses aren’t just for kids — they get teens and even adults racing, laughing, and competing. They’re high-energy attractions that keep lines moving and add excitement to your event.


2. Trackless Train Rides

There’s nothing like the sight of a colorful train pulling into your carnival. Safe, fun, and perfect for kids of all ages, a trackless train also doubles as a moving photo opportunity for families.


3. Carnival Midway Games

Ring toss, basketball shootouts, and balloon darts bring the traditional carnival feel right to your school. Plus, they’re easy to tie into fundraising with small prizes and ticket sales.


4. Foam Party Zone

Add a splash of excitement with a foam pit. Kids will love diving into the suds, and parents will love how unique it makes your event. Foam parties are especially popular in warm weather.


5. Classic Carnival Food Stands

Nothing says carnival like the smell of cotton candy, popcorn, and sno-cones. These classics keep guests fueled and create an authentic carnival atmosphere.


6. Themed Bounce Houses

From castles to sports themes, bounce houses remain a staple for younger children. A themed bounce house adds color, energy, and nonstop fun for your youngest guests.


7. Live Entertainment

Hire a magician, DJ, or mentalist to keep the crowd engaged between rides and games. Entertainment creates a central gathering point and gives your event a professional feel.


8. Water Rides for Summer Carnivals

Planning a carnival at the end of the school year? Water slides and dunk tanks are guaranteed crowd-pleasers on a hot day. Students will line up for the chance to dunk their favorite teacher!


9. Photo Booths & 360 Booths

Capture the memories! Photo booths are great for kids and adults, and they also provide schools with a fun way to promote the event on social media.


10. Prize Booths & Raffles

Everyone loves a chance to win something. Whether it’s stuffed animals, school merchandise, or donated prizes, raffles and booths keep guests engaged and support your fundraising goals.


Final Thoughts

A school carnival is one of the most anticipated events of the year — and with the right mix of attractions, it can be both profitable and unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a small school fair or a large community festival, Amazing Amusements has the rides, games, and expertise to bring your vision to life.

👉 Planning your school carnival? Contact Amazing Amusements today for a free quote and let’s make your event the highlight of the school year!

Pro Tips for a Smooth, Profitable Carnival

  • Bundle & save: Offer wristbands for unlimited rides plus a treat voucher.
  • Staff smart: Place attendants at busiest attractions to reduce wait times.
  • Plan the layout: Put high‑visibility attractions near entrances to draw crowds.
  • Safety first: Ensure clear setup areas and posted rules at each attraction.

Start Planning Your Event With Us!

BOOK YOUR EVENT WITH US TODAY!

If you are interested in booking any of our services for your upcoming event, call us at 718-475-7675 or by filling out the contact form!

Make sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram!

School Carnival FAQs

How far in advance should we book?
For spring and fall dates, book 6–8 weeks ahead if possible. Peak weekends fill quickly.
Do you handle delivery and setup?
Yes. Our trained team handles delivery, setup, safety checks, and takedown.
Are your rides insured and inspected?
Absolutely. Equipment is fully insured, sanitized, and maintained to high safety standards.

Serving Rockland County, Westchester County, NYC, Northern NJ, and surrounding Tri‑State communities.


Bounce House Rentals

Bounce into Fun: The Ultimate Guide to Inflatable Bounce House Rentals

Bounce House Rentals: The Ultimate Guide to Renting Inflatables

Imagine a party where laughter echoes through the air, and the atmosphere is filled with boundless energy. What’s the secret ingredient to such a lively event? Inflatable bounce houses! These colorful, bouncy wonders have become a staple at events, providing endless entertainment for kids and adults alike. In this post, we’ll delve into the world of inflatable bounce house rentals, exploring options for hosting a memorable event.

1. The Joy of Bouncing: Benefits of Inflatable Bounce Houses

Inflatable bounce houses aren’t just fun; they offer a myriad of benefits for both children and event organizers. From promoting physical activity and social interaction to fostering creativity and imagination, these bouncy structures contribute to the overall well-being of participants. Moreover, they provide a unique and exciting element to any gathering, turning an ordinary event into an extraordinary celebration.

2. Types of Inflatable Bounce Houses

There’s more to inflatable bounce houses than meets the eye. From classic bounce castles and obstacle courses to water slides and themed inflatables, the options are as diverse as the imaginations that create them. Explore the different types of bounce houses available for rent and choose the one that best suits your event.

3. Safety First: Guidelines for a Secure Bouncing Experience

While bounce houses are designed for fun, safety however should always be a top priority. Learn about the safety measures and guidelines that come with inflatable bounce house rentals. From proper setup and anchoring to weight limits and participant supervision, understanding and implementing these safety measures ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone.

4. Choosing the Right Bounce House Rental Company

Not all bounce house rental companies are created equal. Research and consider factors such as reputation, cleanliness, insurance, and equipment quality before selecting a rental company. Reading reviews and asking for recommendations can help you make an informed decision, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.

5. Tips for Hosting a Bounce-Tastic Event

Planning an event with inflatable bounce houses also involves more than just renting the equipment. Discover tips and tricks for creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests. From organizing games to incorporating themed decorations, these ideas will elevate your event to new heights of excitement.

Conclusion:

Inflatable bounce house rentals have transformed ordinary gatherings into extraordinary celebrations! Bringing boundless joy and laughter to participants of all ages. Lastly, whether you’re planning a birthday party, a community event, or a corporate function, the addition of inflatable bounce houses promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the bounce and let the laughter soar. Create memories that will be cherished long after the inflatable castles have been deflated and packed away.

Start Planning Your Next Event With Us!

BOOK YOUR BOUNCE HOUSE TODAY!

If you are interested in booking any of our services for your upcoming event, call us at 718-475-7675 or by filling out the contact form!

Make sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram!

Live Entertainment DJ

4 Fantastic Live Entertainment Options for Any Occasion

Ok, so it’s already November and you’re planning a themed, indoor party for next month, or maybe in two months; unless it’s just in a few weeks… Regardless of when you’re planning it for, it’s never too late to start figuring out how you’re going to entertain your guests. No matter what occasion it may be; a Bar Mitzvah, Bat Mitzvah, Corporate Event or any other type of event; the live entertainment you choose will set the tone for the whole party and make or break your guests’ experience. So… now that all the invitations are out and your guests are all coming, it’s the perfect time to decide on what kind of live entertainment you would like to have. And as usual, Amazing Amusements has come to help you create some fun, ’cause that’s what we do best! This time we’ve brought a great guide of 4 fantastic live entertainment options for your upcoming party… So let’s get started:

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Fall Festival

Five Must Haves for Planning a Fall Festival

Planning a Fall Festival? Fall festivals are one of the most anticipated community events of the year. The weather is beautiful; cool and breezy, yet not too cold for some wholesome outdoor fun, and with the harvest season upon us, it can really become a celebration of sorts. But what will actually make this event truly memorable? How can you raise the bar from ordinary to fantastic?

Well, here at Amazing Amusements that is our forte’ – making every event absolutely amazing! So here we’ve come to tell you about five components any fall festival must have in order to be truly fabulous! So… Here goes:

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Bumper Cars will Let Summer Leave with a Bang

Believe it or not, we’re heading toward the last leg of summer ’19. But there still is a substantial enough amount of time to relax and have some fun before it’s really over and the school year begins. With a whole year of learning ahead, it’s important to allow children to enjoy their last few weeks of vacation, and enable them to let out their energy before it’s time to buckle down!

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Rock-Wall-Climbing

Why Rock Climbing Wall Rentals are a Fantastic Summer Activity

Summer is a time for chilling and fun. We know that! That’s what we do here at Amazing Amusements – provide you with fun and games! But, with just a bit of extra time on your hands, summer is also a time for opportunity and growth. And we know that too! You know what they say?! “A closed mouth catches no flies” – so grab the potential summer ’19 has to offer you! And that’s why we’ve come to show you how Rock climbing wall rentals can help you “climb to greater heights” this summer!
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