San Luis Obispo County Activity Calendar: Complete San Luis Obispo Activities

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San Luis Obispo offers many special activities adding even more fun to your visit - or even make it the purpose of your trip.

There's always a fun event going on in San Luis Obispo County - Wine Festivals - Winery Events - Farmers Markets - Food Festivals - Plays - Summer Concerts - Art Fairs - Nature Watching - Family Events - Car Shows - Holiday Activities - Nightlife. Listed below are just some of the fun events that are being enjoyed TODAY.

Use the "Search by Date" calculator in this comprehensive community calendar and discover the many great special activities happening during your visit.

* San Luis Obispo County VCB is not responsible for event changes, cancellations, etc.

Click Here for a PDF of "This Week in SLO County" for May 16 - 22, 2008.

Click Here for a PDF of "2008 Events throughout SLO County"

Events for May 18, 2008

Special Events

Annual Paso Robles Wine Festival

Our wine region celebrates its premium wines. Friday - Golf Tournament at Hunter Ranch Golf Course, special tasting at the downtown park in the late afternoon, and Winemaker Dinners. Saturday is the main event: wine tasting, food booths, live music in the Paso Robles City Park. Sunday - winery open houses and special events.
Advance ticket purchase is advised for the Friday Night and Saturday Afternoon marquee events.

Please call the SLO County Visitors Bureau if having trouble finding hotel rooms during this very busy weekend - 800-634-1414.

Date: May 16, 2008 - May 18, 2008
Time: 1 - 5 PM (Saturday Downtown Event)
Location: Downtown City Park + Wineries
Event Address: Downtown City Park + Wineries
Event City: Paso Robles
Parking: Event Center (Fairgrounds) - Free Shuttle
Phone: 805-239-8463
Admission: TBD
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Annual Wine & Cheese Pairing - Harmony

A fun and informative event hosted by Winemaker Chuck Mulligan. Artisan cheeses will be paired with award-winning Harmony wines.
This event is wildly popular—make your reservations now!

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 11:30am; 2:00pm
Location: Harmony Cellars Winery
Event Address: 3255 Harmony Valley Road
Event City: Harmony
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 805.927.1625
Admission: $18/club members - $25/regular price
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BBQ and Fun for Wine Fest 2008

Open House at Eberle Winery
Go “Red, White and Blue” at Eberle Winery with an all-American complementary barbecue (with the help of Chef Lou Rook of Annie Gunn’s of St. Louis, MO) and the awesome music of Julie Beaver and the Bad Dogs. Open House, complementary wine tasting and self guided cave tours. Eberle Winery is located 3.5 miles east of Highway 101 on Highway 46 East in Paso Robles.

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 12-4pm
Location: 3810 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles
Event Address: 3810 Highway 46 East
Event City: Paso Robles, CA
Parking: F
Phone: 805-238-9607
Admission: free
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Champagne Brunch Cruise - Morro Bay

Enjoy spectacular views from the bay as you savor our homemade pastries, and a full brunch buffet. With free-flowing Champagne plus an omlet station; it doesn't get any better than this!

Reservations encouraged.

Date: January 6, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Time: 10:30 - Noon
Location: Embarcadero Departure
Event Address: 113 W. Embarcadero
Event City: Morro Bay
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 805-305-1841
Admission: $ 42 per person -
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Chumeia Vineyards Paso Robles Wine Festival Events

Join us for THE event of the season. Barrel samples, wine specials, food and wine pairings and more to be announced soon! Save the dates! Visit our website at www.chumeiavineyards.com or call us at 888-343-9445 for more information.

Date: May 16, 2008 - May 18, 2008
Time: 10am-5pm daily
Location: Winery and Downtown Paso Robles
Event Address: 8331 Highway 46 East
Event City: Paso Robles
Parking: Free at winery
Phone: 888-343-9445
Admission: varies -
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Comedy: "Muskie Love"

Musical comedy adaptation of Shakespeare's "Much Ado about Nothing" - about rival fishing guides in... Green Bay Wisconsin! Followed by a great vaudeville review.

See why Sunset Magazine called the Great American Melodrama "An excellent year 'round company." Be part of our 33rd Season! Open Wednesday-Sunday. Beer, wine, soft drinks & snacks available. Reservations advised.

Date: April 24, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Time: Time / Dates Vary
Location: Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville
Event Address: 1863 Pacific (=Hwy 1)
Event City: Oceano
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 805-489-2499
Admission: $16 - $20
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Concert: A Sunday Sonata -SLO

Talented young musicians from the Youth Symphony will perform while you enjoy an elegant Champagne Brunch beautifully prepared by some of the Central Coast's finest chefs at the Annual Youth Symphony Brunch. Door prizes, grand prize drawing and more! All benefiting the educational programs of the San Luis Obispo Youth Symphony.

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 11 am
Location: Embassy Suites Hotel
Event Address: 333 Madonna Rd.
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Free on site
Phone: 805-543-3533
Admission: $100
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Concert: Salisbury Vineyards - Avila Beach

Every other Sunday, sit out on our patio and listen to the sounds of some great local talent. Enjoy wines by the glass from our wine bar featuring several local wineries. BBQ available at extra charge.

Come see us and Rock with Salisbury Vineyards! Teacher says: "No Cover, No Food and drink from off the schoolgrounds".

Date: May 18, 2008 - November 2, 2008
Time: 1 - 4 PM
Location: Salisbury Vineyards
Event Address: 6985 Ontario Road
Event City: Avila Beach
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 805-595-9463
Admission: No Cover -
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Dark Chocolate Fondue Party at Dunning Vineyards!

Join Dunning Vineyards in Paso Robles for their annual open house and Dark chocolate fondue party!
Taste award winning Estate wines in the winery along with an art show featuring fine jewelry and more!
Come find us at the End of the road!

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 11:00-5:00
Location: Dunning Vineyards
Event Address: 1953 Niderer Road
Event City: Paso Robles, Ca 93446
Parking: Free Parking
Phone: 805.238.4763
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Full Moon Kayak on Morro Bay

Come join us for a magical blend of moonlight, peaceful water and sea kayaking on Morro Bay. Leaving a short while before dusk in sea kayaks, we'll ride a rising tide to explore different hidden corners of Morro Bay. After the sun sets, the full moon illuminates our way and we'll tune into the sights and sounds of the bay at night. You won't believe how much bird and wildlife activity there is out there in the evening until you experience it for yourself. Reservations Required

Date: May 18, 2008 - May 19, 2008
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: State Park Marina, Morro Bay State Park
Event City: Morro Bay
Parking: Free Parking On Site
Phone: (805) 528-1080
Admission: $55 - $69
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Gardens Tour - Arroyo Grande

The Oceano Dunes and oak forests provide scenic backdrops in some of the spectacular gardens on this year's "Visions & Vistas" garden tour. In a return to the South County, six gardens will be opened to ticket holders. Artists and musicians will add to the tour's ambiance.

A reserved catered lunch will be available for an additional cost of $10.00 and must be ordered and prepaid by May 14. A lovely, peaceful setting and a nice place to sit awhile will be provided where you can enjoy the entertainment.

Tickets must be reserved and paid in advance. Ticket prices are $30.00 for members and $40.00 for non members.

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 9 - 4 PM
Location: Gardens of Arroyo Grande
Event Address: Locations provided on Map Ticket
Event City: Arroyo Grande
Parking: Free on Sites
Phone: 805-783-2777
Admission: $40 (includes breakfast) - $50 (includes lunch)
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Hearst Castle (R) Garden Tour

Enjoy a special tour of the Hearst Castle (R) focusing on the gardens at their peak. Includes Neptune Pool Dressing Rooms and Wine Cellar in Casa Grande. Reservations for this "Tour 4" are essential.

Date: April 1, 2008 - October 31, 2008
Time: Vary By Day - see website
Location: Hearst Castle (R)
Event Address: Hwy 1
Event City: San Simeon
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 800-444-4445
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Mediterranean Magic Garden Tour

The SLO Botanical Garden's annual Garden Tour. All proceeds to benefit the new Education Center at the Garden. Tickets available at Ron's Nursery

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 10 a.m to 4 p.m.
Location: South San Luis Obispo County
Event City: South County
Parking: yes
Phone: 805-541-1400 x 302
Admission: $30 for members - $40
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Midlife Crisis Wine Festival Weekend

Midlife Crisis Winery will be celebrating Wine Festival all weekend long. Join us in the tasting room on Friday and Sunday and in the park on Saturday. New Releases, barrel tasting and great special pricing on wine will be offered. Cheese and appetizers will be paired with Midlife Crisis’ wine. Tasting will be complimentary all weekend long.

Date: May 16, 2008 - May 18, 2008
Time: 10:30am-6pm
Location: Midlife Crisis Winery Tasting Room
Event Address: 1244 Pine Street
Event City: Paso Robles
Parking: Free oN street
Phone: 805-237-8730
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Paradise in Paso at Firestone!

Join the Fiesta!
Be the 1st to try out our new HORSESHOE PITS and sip SANGRIA on the patio. $2.00 taco bar with fresh salsas. $5 tasting fee includes the logo Riedel glass.

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 12pm to 3pm
Location: Firestone Vineyard Paso
Event Address: 2300 Airport Road
Event City: Paso Robles
Phone: 805-591-8050
Admission: $5 tasting/ $2 tacos -
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Sundays on the Deck - Pismo Beach

Take in the splendor of coastal living with SeaVenture Restaurant's Sundays on the Deck - a new offering inviting you to enjoy a laid back day of rest with live music, delicious cuisine and tropical drink specials from the comfort of a heated, oceanfront patio. You can even scan the waves for sea life with binoculars provided on every patio table.

Date: April 20, 2008 - September 28, 2008
Time: 2 - 6 PM
Location: SeaVenture Restaurant
Event Address: 100 Ocean View Ave.
Event City: Pismo Beach
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: (805) 773-3463
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Vina Robles Riedel Seminar

Experience the difference in the aroma and taste of Vina Robles' wines presented in Riedel's newest glass line, FLOW. Lunch provided by In Good Taste Catering. Seminar begins at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $65 per person, $60 Signature Club. For more details and to purchase tickets, please call 805.369.0140 or email c.zuur@vinarobles.com.

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Vina Robles Hospitality Center
Event Address: 3700 Mill Rd.
Event City: Paso Robles
Parking: Yes, free
Phone: 805-369-0140
Admission: $60 Signature Club - $65
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On-Going Events

Art Center Show - San Luis Obispo

Permanent museum collection and constantly rotating exhibits of works by popular local artists in all media - paintings, sculpture, photography, prints, jewelry, woodworking and more. Check website for specific dates and exhibits. Many works are available for sale.

Date: March 1, 2008 - December 31, 2009
Time: 10:00 - 5:00 PM
Location: Downtown Mission Plaza
Event Address: Broad Street
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Charge in nearby lots
Phone: 805-543-8562
Admission: Donation Requested -
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Art Gallery Show - Morro Bay

Enjoy a non-profit local collective art gallery. Exhibits change about every 6 weeks. Located in charming downtown Morro Bay. Funds art activities in area. Organization also manages the Morro Bay "Art in the Park" on Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day weekends.

Date: March 8, 2008 - December 7, 2009
Time: 12 - 4 PM
Location: Morro Bay Art Association & Gallery
Event Address: 835 Main Street
Event City: Morro Bay
Parking: Free on Street
Phone: 805-772-2504
Admission: Free -
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Big Band Music at Mother's Tavern - SLO

Most Sunday afternoons, enjoy great live Big Band music (& dancing) by a local leading band. All in a beautifully refurbished upscale 1900's tavern located in the center of downtown SLO. Check web or call for schedule.

Date: January 6, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Time: 3 - 6 Pm
Location: Mothers Tavern
Event Address: 725 Higuera
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Free on Street & nearby lots
Phone: 805-541-8733
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Bike, Hike and Kayak Trips

Come explore the amazing outdoor world of the Central Coast Outdoors with us. Ten unique day trips to choose from, including bicycling the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, hiking magical Big Sur and kayaking among the profusion of bird life in Morro Bay. Day trips depart most Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday private tours also available (minimum 2 people). All trips include necessary transportation, a gourmet picnic lunch and knowledgeable guide(s). Bike rentals available. Reservations required.

Date: January 5, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Location: Countywide
Parking: Free
Phone: 888-873-5610
Admission: $79 - $119
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Estrella Warbird Museum - Paso Robles

Every Saturday & Sunday, visit a memorable collection of military aircraft (from props to jets) and artifacts (from weaponry to a Links trainer). See the F14a Tomcat just added to their collection! Family fun.

Date: January 5, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Time: Sat 10-4, Sunday 12-3
Location: Paso Robles Airport
Event Address: 4251 Dry Creek Road
Event City: Paso Robles
Parking: Free on Site
Phone: 805-227-0440
Admission: Donation Requested -
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Farmers Market - Nipomo

Every Sunday, local growers sell fresh-picked seasonal fruit, flowers. Trees and Plants. Taste the best of the Central Coast !

Date: January 6, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Time: 11 AM-2 PM
Location: Parking Lot opposite Post Office
Event Address: 671 W. Tefft St
Event City: Nipomo
Parking: Free on Street
Phone: 805-929-3081
Admission: Free
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Go Ballooning - Paso Robles

Enjoy incredible views of the Wine country of Paso Robles, Atascadero, San Miguel and Templeton. Relax and get the bigger picture. The view from the balloon is incredible as you float along at 2 -3 miles per hour from an altitude of a few feet up to several thousand feet above the ground. 1-4 passengers per trip. Weather permitting. Call to Reserve.

Date: January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Time: Call for Details
Location: Varies
Event City: Paso Robles Take Offs
Parking: Free On Site
Phone: 805-458-1530
Admission: Call for Prices -
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Go Wine Tasting - Paso Robles Wine Country

Every day, many of the wineries in northern part of the Central Coast - Atascadero, Cambria / Harmony, Paso Robles, Templeton and San Miguel - offer wine tasting. (Most wineries offer wine tasting on weekends; check in advance.) Enjoy the wide variety of wines - and the beautiful Central Coast wine country scenery - of this up and coming California Wine Country region. Go to "Maps" section of toolbar to download map of our winery members. California Wine Country at it's best.

Date: January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Time: 10:00 - 5:00 PM
Location: North County
Phone: 805-239-VINE (8463)
Admission: Free - $5.00
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Go Wine Tasting - San Luis Obispo Wine Country

Every day, many of the wineries in the southern part of the Central Coast - San Luis Obispo, the Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande - offer wine tasting. (Most wineries offer wine tasting on weekends; check in advance.) Enjoy the wide variety of wines - and the beautiful Central Coast wine country scenery - of this up and coming California Wine Country region. Go to "Maps" section of toolbar to download map of our winery members. California Wine Country at it's best.

Date: January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Time: 10:00 - 5:00
Location: South County
Phone: 805-541-5868
Admission: Free - $5.00
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Jack House Museum & Garden Tour

Every Sunday afternoon, enjoy guided tours of the historic Victorian "Jack House", built by a wealthy local family in 1880. House, gardens and rooms restored to 1880 splendor. Many original furnishings. Gardens are site of many weddings and special events. Located near the center of downtown San Luis Obispo.

Date: January 27, 2008 - December 21, 2008
Time: 1 - 4PM
Location: Jack House
Event Address: 536 Marsh Street
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Free on Street
Phone: 805-781-7308
Admission: $2. (children free) -
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Nightlife: Live Music at Downtown Brewing Co. - SLO

Most nights, enjoy live entertainment by professional local and touring bands in one of the premier venues in downtown San Luis Obispo. Full bar available. (Formerly known as SLO Brew.)

Date: January 2, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Time: Time vary, most 9-11 PM
Location: Downtown Brewing Company
Event Address: 1119 Garden St.
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Free on Street after 6PM
Phone: 805-543-2045
Admission: Varies -
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Spring Food Drive at Donati Family Vineyard

Bring in any non-perishable food item to the Winery in Templeton and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.

The property boasts award-winning, hand-crafted wines, an extensive selection of artisan cheese and snacks, picnic facilities, and full size bocce courts.

Enjoy an afternoon in wine country while helping a truly worthy cause.

Date: April 1, 2008 - May 31, 2008
Time: Daily 10am-5pm
Location: Donati Family Vineyard Winery and Hospitality Center
Event Address: Intersection of Hwy 46 West and Vineyard Dr.
Event City: Templeton
Parking: Free
Phone: 805-238-0676
Admission: food donation -
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Visit Art Galleries

Enjoy the visual arts at the many San Luis Obispo County art galleries, wineries and restaurants. Many artists have chosen to live in this beautiful area, and most galleries highlight their works. Paintings, Sculpture, Jewelry, woodworking, fabric, furniture, photography.. Go to the "Arts and Activities" section to see a list of members and their specialties. From African art to jewelry made with Zeolite, the County offers it!

Date: January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
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Visit Historic Buildings - Arroyo Grande

Every Satuday & Sunday afternoon, enjoy a stroll with our trained docents through our genuine historic Victorian buildings and collections in downtown Arroyo Grande. Original old one-room schoolhouse, Doctors House, Sanitarium, IOOF Hall, and Barn with old vehicles.

Date: January 5, 2008 - December 28, 2008
Time: Sat 12-3, Sun 1-4
Location: Downtown Arroyo Grande
Event City: Arroyo Grande
Parking: Free on Street
Phone: 805-473-5077
Admission: Donation Requested -
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Walk thru Dunes at Oso Flaco Lake

Most Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays, enjoy guided walk thru the Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area, part of the Guadelupe - Nipomo Dunes Preserve. See rare plants and birds, as well as protected sand dunes. Many guided walks given on various days. Check for exact schedule. Dunes open daily to all vistors during daytime for self-guided visits.

Date: January 2, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Time: Varies
Location: Oso Flaco Lake
Event Address: End of Oso Flaco Lake Road
Event City: Nipomo
Parking: $5 in parking lot
Phone: 805-343-2455
Admission: Free
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Watch Birds

The migratory birds are gone, leaving the year round inhabitants to themselves, including the stunning blue heron. The county, especially near Morro Bay, is one of the top bird watching sites in the USA. (Look for everything from hummingbirds to bald eagles.)

Date: April 1, 2008 - May 31, 2008
Time: Daylight Hours
Location: County Wide
Phone: 800-231-0592
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Watch Elephant Seals

Watch the females and juveniles return to molt. Fascinating & Fun to watch, but keep a respectful distance and keep dogs away.

Date: April 1, 2008 - May 31, 2008
Time: Daylight Hours
Location: Beaches of San Simeon & Ragged Point
Event Address: Beaches of San Simeon & Ragged Point
Event City: San Simeon & Ragged Point
Parking: Free on Hwy 1
Phone: 805-924-1628
Admission: Free
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Watch Special Performance - Arroyo Grande

The new Clark Center for the Performing Arts offers professional entertainment. most weekends and some other days. Located in the "5 Cities" area, near Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Oceano and Halcyon. "Where the Quality Shows!"

Date: January 12, 2008 - December 31, 2008
Location: Clark Center for the Performing Arts
Event Address: 487 Fair Oaks Ave.
Event City: Arroyo Grande
Parking: Free On Site
Phone: 805-489-9444
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Watch Special Performance - San Luis Obispo

Enjoy a performance at one of the premier sites in the state. Active schedule of plays, concerts, shows, ballets, symphonies etc. by local, state, national and international performers. Wide range of events to appeal to all tastes and ages. All in beautiful buildings with great acoustics. Events held in the Christopher Cohan Center of the Performing Arts Center or the nearby Cal Poly Spanos Theatre on Cal Poly campus.

Date: January 12, 2008 - December 30, 2008
Location: Cal Poly Campus
Event Address: Grand Avenue
Event City: San Luis Obispo
Parking: Charge in adjoining lot
Phone: 805-756-2787
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Whale Watching

Watch the humpback whales as they migrate past the county. Stand on the coast or take one of the whale-watching boat tours. Check the "Great Outdoor" section on the toolbar. Gray whales migrate earlier (December - March).

Date: April 1, 2008 - July 15, 2008
Time: Daylight Hours
Location: Entire Coast
Admission: Free -
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