As November arrives, we welcome the beginning of joyous celebrations and captivating light exhibits for everyone’s delight. Embrace the holiday cheer by exploring the many fun and free things to do in Metro Vancouver this month.
From holiday markets and colourful lights, to food festivals and sport events, we have you covered.
RELATED: Downtown Vancouver’s Rec Room is Set to this November
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Things To Do In Vancouver This November
Parade of Lost Souls (Nov 1) FREE
Join the exciting Parade of Lost Souls where anything can happen and imaginations run wild! This year’s theme is UNPLUGGED. It encourages you to unplug yourself from modern society and step back in time. Get dressed as an undead characters and emerge from the darkness.
This beloved annual event promises an exhilarating blend of performance, music, and art, inviting all to participate in a spooktacular celebration.
When & Where: November 1 at 6:30 for children. 7:30 & 8:30 for general public at a secret location
Cost: Free or by donation.
Other Halloween Events Ending in November
- Maan Farm Halloween Corn Maze: Sept 2 – Nov 3 (Event Details) $50 – $200
- Peteys Reapers Corn Maze: Sept 28 – Nov 7 (Event Details) $30-$35
- The DreadWorks Factory: Sept 27 – Nov 3 (Event Details) $60-$75
- Cougar Creek’s House of Horrors: Oct 4 – Nov 2 (Event Details) $40 – $60
- Haunted Vancouver Unveiled: A Self-Guided Augmented Reality Ghost Tour: Oct 4- Nov 4 (Event Details) FREE
- Yaga: A Dark and Suspenseful Tale Comes to Gateway Theatre: Oct 24 – Nov 2 (Event Details) $35-$55
Art Gallery Free Entry (Nov 1) Free
The Vancouver Art Gallery is free on the first Friday of every month. Attendees can enter between 4 and 8 pm. They will be offering educational tours and other programming free of charge. It’s also worth mentioning that children and teens aged 18 and under can visit the art gallery for free at any time, thanks to a program launched last summer that runs for five years.
When & Where: November 1 from 4-8pm at 750 Hornby St, Vancouver
Cost: Free admission (pre-registration is recommended)
Dome Dining at H Tasting Lounge (Nov 1- March 16)
Thanks to heated bubble domes, you can soak up the sights and sounds of outdoor dining while also staying warm and cozy. The Westin Bayshore’s H Tasting Lounge is bringing back its magical Winterlust dome dining experience in the heart of Coal Harbour.
The traditionally Alpine-fitted domes will integrate celestial-inspired elements starting this November.
When & Where: November 1 – March 16, 2025 from 11:30 am – 12 am at The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver, 1601 Bayshore Drive, Vancouver
Cost: Reservations are required and each dome seats a maximum of six people and minimum spends / time allotments apply.
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Glenda’s Christmas Cottage Abbotsford (Oct 29 – Dec 23)
Glenda’s Christmas Cottage in Abbotsford is a beloved holiday haven, offering a delightful and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. With its charming décor and festive ambiance, the cottage creates the perfect setting to explore an array of unique holiday treasures, from ornaments to seasonal gifts. Whether you’re searching for the ideal Christmas gift or simply looking to immerse yourself in the magic of the season, Glenda’s Christmas Cottage is the go-to destination in Abbotsford.
When & Where: Open for instore shopping October 29-December 23 at 4557 Mt Lehman Road, Abbotsford
Cost: Free Admission
Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl 2024 (Nov 1-21)
The much-anticipated Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl is back for its 3rd annual run, and it’s bigger than ever! Over three weeks, croissant lovers can embark on a self-guided adventure across 30+ bakeries and cafés, all offering limited edition croissants that will elevate your pastry game.
Whether you walk, bike, or drive, it’s the ultimate excuse to indulge in the best buttery, flaky treats Metro Vancouver has to offer.
When & Where: November 1-21 at various locations
Cost: Varies
Stand Up Comedy: 1931 Gallery Bistro (Nov 1)
Located inside the Vancouver Art Gallery, this Standup Comedy Show has an incredible lineup of pro comics. Enjoy standup comedy in a beautiful heritage building, located at the core of Vancouver’s downtown district.
When & Where: November 1 from 8:45-10:45pm at the 1931 Gallery Bistro, 750 Hornby Street Vancouver
Cost: $36.48
Kanpai! Sake Celebration (Nov 2)
Sake, culture, and celebration await! Sip on exquisite sake, savour delicious cuisine, and enjoy performances. Options to discover the art of bonsai, master the tranquillity of a Japanese rock garden, and delve into history through guided gallery tours. Join us for an unforgettable evening of cultural exploration.
When & Where: November 2 from 5-10pm at Nikkei National Museum, Burnaby
Cost: $25-$30
Vancouver Opera Production of Die Fledermaus (Nov 2-3)
Vancouver Opera is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its 65th season with a dazzling production of Johann Strauss II’s Die Fledermaus. This operatic masterpiece, filled with wit, charm, and unforgettable melodies, will set the stage for an extraordinary season of performances.
When & Where: November 2 at 7:30pm and November 3 at 2:00 pm at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza, Cambie St & Georgia St W, Vancouver
Cost: $25
Fall Baby Show Vancouver (Nov 2-3)
Vancouver’s leading pregnancy, baby and toddler event, The Baby Show Vancouver, returns to Canada Place this November.
Shop 100’s of brands from national and local retailers showcasing the latest must-haves for parents, while indulging in free samples and hearing from the country’s top parenting experts. From car seat safety to babywearing, sleep routines to perinatal and postpartum support, The Baby Show Vancouver offers parents the chance to dive head first into the parenting world.
When: November 2-3 at theCanada Place, East Facility, Hall B, 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: $15
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The Christmas Store at Potters (Nov 1-Dec 24)
Everyone knows it’s the most wonderful time of the year when a garden store transforms into Western’s Canada’s largest Christmas store. At a sprawling 28,000 square-feet, the iconic store has something for everyone on your “nice” list.
When & Where: Open November 1 through December 24 at various times at 19158 48th Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free Admission
Bear Creek Lights (Nov 2-16)
Back for another year, the popular mesmerizing light displays will once again light up the trails at Bear Creek, and the best part is, you can visit for free.
Beautiful during the day and enchanting at night, this family friendly event allows visitors to stroll at their on pace on a dazzling 1km trail through breathtaking light displays. This year, the trail will feature a stunning 20-foot-long tunnel of lights.
When & Where: November 2-16 from 4:30 – 9 pm at Bear Creek Park, 13750 88 Ave, Surrey
Cost: Free, but registration is required
Latin American Heritage Month (Ending Nov 3)
Latincouver is celebrating Latin American Heritage Month in BC for the sixth year with a diverse lineup of events. These include artist performances, art exhibitions, workshops, forums, and both in-person and online activities. The events honor Latin America’s rich cultural heritage and its influence on BC and Canada. Highlights include salsa lessons, a Day of the Dead market, and a vibrant festival.
When & Where: October 15 – Nov 3, all over Metro Vancouver
Cost: Varies
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Circle Craft Market (Nov 6-10)
Circle Craft Holiday Market, the largest craft fair in Western Canada, returns for another year of seasonal delights.
The popular event is a great place to find handcrafted items and thoughtful holiday gifts for your loved ones. So whether you’re looking for jewelry, clothing, or candles, you’ll find something special at Circle Craft.
When & Where: November 6-10, from 10 am at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: $12-16
Usher Past Present Future Tour (Nov 7 & 8)
The iconic American singer, is set to captivate Vancouver with his much-anticipated Past, Present, Future tour. The North American tour includes only two Canadian stops, specifically in Vancouver and Toronto.
When & Where: November 7 & 8 at Rogers Arena, 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Cost: Varies
Lumiere (Nov 7-10) Free
Lumiere is once again set to return to Vancouver’s West End to brighten spirits and the neighbourhood with a series of magical light installations. The annual display of light and art is back this coming November. Now in its eleventh year, Lumiere Vancouver will showcase seven amazing interactive pieces.
When & Where: November 7-10 from 5-9pm at various locations around Vancouver
Cost: Free
Vanyoo Fall Market (Nov 8) FREE
The Vanyoo Fall Market brings together 50+ local vendors offering everything from artisanal goods to trendy fashion, jewelry, food, pet products and unique home decor.
Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or early holiday gifts, this market has it all.
When & Where: November 8 from 4-9pm at the Pipe Shop Venue, 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
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Centennial Theatre presents Bear Grease (Nov 8)
Bear Grease takes the hit musical, Grease, on an Indigenous joyride, with fashion that slays, humour that tickles your funny bone, and music that makes you groove!
Buckle up for an electrifying experience that celebrates Indigenous cultures and dances its way into your heart—it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure you don’t want to miss.
When & Where: November 8 from7-9pm at Centennial Theatre, 2300 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
Cost: $60
The Comedy Department’s Touring and Local Shows (Nov 9-Dec 28)
The Comedy Department’s Touring and Local shows Light Up November & December.
During this holiday season, The Comedy Department continues to bring laughs across the Lower Mainland with two touring productions and holiday shows at their resident venue, The Show Cellar, in Vancouver.
When & Where: November 9 – December 28 all over Metro Vancouver
Cost: from $23
The Last Resort – An End-of-a-Lifetime Immersive Theatre Experience (Nov 10, 17, 24)
The Last Resort is a unique and unforgettable immersive show that will leave you breathless. This one-of-a-kind journey through purgatory paradise explores themes of change, choice, mortality, growth, and disco. Guests are invited to choose their level of participation, denoted by a coloured lei placed around their necks as they’re welcomed into the Hereafter.
When & Where: November 10 from 2-10pm at the At The Waldorf, 1489 E Hastings St, Vancouver
Cost: $55-$125
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Music of the Night: The Concert Tour (Nov 10)
This concert celebration of Andrew Lloyd Webber returns to BC (last here in 2022) after having now toured across Canada to sold out audiences from Victoria to Montreal!
With a live band and many new incredible and celebrated singers, we welcome you to experience this concert of Webber’s most iconic theatrical music – including selections from Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Sunset Blvd, and more!
When & Where: November 10 at the HUB International Theatre, Chilliwack
Cost: $60-$75
Grey Cup Festival (Nov 10-17)
Anticipation is building in Vancouver as the BC Lions gear up to host Canada’s largest annual sporting event for the first time in a decade.
The last time the Grey Cup was held in Vancouver was in 2014, and now the event is back with not just football but a whole lot more – live music, parties, and thrilling activities, including an exciting zipline adventure above Coal Harbour.
When & Where: November 10-17 at Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: Free
Passive Aggressive Comedy Tour (Nov 12-13)
The Passive Aggressive Comedy Tour is stopping by Van City for TWO NIGHTS ONLY to bring you premium weekday comedy at Little Mountain Gallery (@littlemountaingallery) for a reasonable price!
When & Where: November 12-13 at the Little Mountain Gallery, 110 Water Street, Vancouver
Cost: $23-$28
Vancouver Christmas Market(Nov 13- Dec 24)
The Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza is a festive holiday tradition in the heart of the city. This enchanting market features beautifully decorated wooden stalls, offering a wide array of seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and traditional German fare.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit as they explore the market’s charming atmosphere, sip on mulled wine, and enjoy live entertainment against the backdrop of the iconic Olympic Cauldron.
When & Where: November 23 – December 24 at Jack Poole Plaza
Cost: $15-22
The Polygon Gallery’s Holiday Shop (Nov 13 – Jan 5) Free Admission
The Polygon Gallery is pleased to present its annual Holiday Shop, an annual tradition, the gallery’s main floor will be beautifully decorated and carefully curated with unique gifts by independent makers and artists. Come get festive and shop local at The Polygon this holiday season.
When & Where: November 13 – January 5 at various times at The Polygon Gallery, 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Admission is free and admission to the gallery’s exhibitions is by-donation or free if you spend $100 or more in the Shop
Arts Club Theatre Company presents Dolly Parton’s Smoky Moutain Christmas Carol (Nov 14 – Dec 24)
The Arts Club Theatre Company is set to launch its holiday season with the uplifting musical Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol at the historic Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
When & Where: November 14 – December 24 at Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, 2750 Granville St, Vancouver
Cost: From $39
Eastside Culture Crawl Visual Arts, Design & Craft Festival (Nov 14-17)
Featuring a lineup of over 500 artists, including 90 newcomers, the festival showcases an incredible range of artistic practices, from painting, jewelry, and sculpture to furniture, leather goods, photography, glass works, textiles, illustration, and beyond.
When & Where: November 14-17 at various locations
Cost: Varies – details can be found online here.
Beaver Moon (Nov 15)
The Beaver Full Moon is the name given to the full moon in November, traditionally marking the time when beavers prepare for winter by building their dams. This full moon was significant to Native American tribes, as it signaled the ideal time to set beaver traps before the water froze. The bright, late autumn moonlight is also a reminder of the changing seasons, heralding the approach of winter.
When & Where: November 15 in the sky
Cost: Free
Leonids Meteor Shower (Nov 17-18)
The Leonids Meteor Shower, peaking around November 17-18, is known for producing bright, fast-moving meteors that appear to radiate from the constellation Leo. This annual event is caused by Earth passing through the debris left behind by the comet Tempel-Tuttle.
The Leonids are famous for occasionally creating spectacular meteor storms, with hundreds or even thousands of meteors visible per hour.
When & Where: Peaks November 17-18 in the sky
Cost: Free
Glow Langley (Nov 21 – Jan 19)
The popular event returns to Langley, transforming a massive indoor venue into a dazzling wonderland of lights and interactive displays.
Families and visitors can explore illuminated gardens, admire intricate light sculptures, and even enjoy a visit from Santa Claus. With its enchanting atmosphere, Glow Langley has become a beloved holiday tradition, offering a magical experience for all ages during the festive season.
When & Where: November 21 – Jan 19 at Glow Gardens Langley, 6690 216 St, Langley
Cost: From $19.99
Lights at Lafarge (Nov 22 – mid Jan) Free
Coquitlam’s largest holiday light display is back. Stunning the area of Town Centre Park, Lights at Lafarge will wow spectators once again this year as they walk through the beautiful Christmas displays and enjoy some festive fun.
The Lights at Lafarge Kick-off Event will take place on Friday November 22, and there will be live entertainment and food vendors from 5-8 pm.
When & Where: November 22 – Early January at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam
Cost: Free
Timebomb’s Winter Warehouse Sale (Nov 22-24)
Timebomb Trading’s famous Winter Warehouse Sale is back. They’re clearing out samples and past-season products to make space in our warehouse. It all has to go! Samples, odd sizes, one-offs, and rare pieces.
When & Where: November 22-24 at Timebomb Trading, 8067 N Fraser Way, Burnaby
Cost: Free admission
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Canyon Lights (Nov 22 – Jan 19)
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a mesmerizing holiday event in North Vancouver. During this annual spectacle, the suspension bridge and surrounding rainforest are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical winter wonderland.
Visitors can take a breathtaking walk among the treetops on the suspension bridge while being immersed in the festive glow, making it a truly enchanting experience for all ages.
When & Where: November 22-January 19 at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver
Cost: Varies
Burnaby Village Museum – Heritage Village (Nov 23-Jan 3) FREE
Experience Burnaby in all its festive beauty. The popular Heritage Christmas event will be coming back for another year.
The event takes place November 23 to January 3, 2025, and the best part yet—it’s free. The official launch of the Heritage Christmas with a tree lighting ceremony will be on November 30 at 6 p.m.
When & Where: November 23 to January 3, 2025 at the Burnaby Village Museum, Burnaby
Cost: Free
Surrey Tree Lighting Festival (Nov 23-24) Free
The popular Surrey Tree Lighting Festival is returning bigger than ever, with a 2 day event. The 60-foot tree is the main attraction, but there’s plenty of other family-friendly activities to take part in as well.
Visitors can take free photos with Santa Claus himself, shop at an expanded holiday market, experience free amusement rides, wander through the light tunnel and enjoy a series of live entertainment.
When & Where: November 23-24 at Surrey Civic Plaza, 13450 104 Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free
Polar Express Squamish (Nov 23-Dec 21)
Bring out the candy canes and presents – it’s time to board the North Pole Express!
As winter’s beauty envelops Squamish, adventurous families are invited to climb on the train to Santa’s workshop. Don’t miss this magical Christmas train ride full of family memories that will last a lifetime.
When & Where: November 23,24-30 & December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, four times a day at the Railway Museum of British Columbia,39645 Government Rd, Squamish
Cost: $82-$132 (for 2)
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Lights by the Lake at Harrison Lake (Nov 23-Jan 12) Free
Lights by the Lake returns to Harrison Lake transforming the lakefront into a dazzling wonderland of lights. There will be a grand opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 23rd from 4:30 – 7:00 pm, ending with a spectacular show of fireworks.
When & Where: November 23, 2024 – January 12, 2025 at Harrison Lake, 100 Esplanade Avenue
Cost: FREE
St. Paul’s Lights of Hope (Nov 27-Jan 3) Free
St. Paul’s Lights of Hope is an annual holiday tradition in Vancouver that illuminates the St. Paul’s Hospital. Thousands of sparkling lights and colorful displays are used to create a stunning spectacle, not only bringing festive cheer to the city but also raising awareness and funds for the hospital’s initiatives.
The event often includes a grand lighting ceremony and opportunities for the public to contribute to the hospital’s charitable efforts, making it a heartwarming celebration of both the holiday season and community support.
When & Where: Lighting on November 27 from 6-8 pm, and will remain on till January 3 at St. Paul’s Hospital
Cost: Free
Noel Lights (Nov 28-Dec 23)
Get ready for a holiday season like no other! Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market is making its debut in Surrey this winter, transforming the Cloverdale Fairgrounds into a festive wonderland.
With over a million sparkling lights, family-friendly activities, and endless entertainment, this is the must-visit event of the season.
When & Where: November 28 – December at Cloverdale Agriplex, 17798 62 Avenue, Surrey
Cost: $20
Squamish at Dusk (Nov 28 – Dec 14)
Get ready for a dazzling holiday fusion of lights, art, and pure magic as Squamish at Dusk returns for their second winter magic experience!
Guests can walk through a magical tunnel of lights, explore glowing trees, and experience an under-the-water-themed installation. The journey takes 30-45 minutes, and you can warm up at the Adventure Centre with hot drinks and fire pits.
When & Where: Every Thursday-Saturday from November 28 to December 14 at Rose Park – 38550 Loggers Lane, Squamish
Cost: $7-$15
Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting (Nov 29)
The lighting of the Christmas tree is a magical moment often symbolizing the beginning of the holiday season, and the lighting of the Vancouver Christmas Tree is a cherished tradition for many.
So, join hands and celebrate as Western Canada’s tallest Christmas tree gets lit up, marking the beginning of a season filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments spent with family and friends.
When & Where: November 29 at 6 pm at the Vancouver Art Gallery
Cost: Free
Stanley Park Bright Nights & Mini Train (Nov 29 – Jan 4)
Bright Nights is a beloved Vancouver holiday tradition that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Since it started in 1997, it’s been made possible by hundreds of dedicated firefighters from across the province who volunteer their time to put up thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Plus, the park is on track to bring back their Mini Train for the season, although tickets are still to be announced.
When & Where: November 29 – January 4 at Stanley Park, Vancouver
Cost: Bright Nights is Free/by donation and the Mini Train ticket prices are TBA
VanDusen Festival of Lights (Nov 29 – Jan 5)
As the holiday season envelops us in a warm embrace, the VanDusen Garden undergoes a magical transformation. The serene oasis of nature becomes a breathtaking canvas of light, colour, and wonder.
This is one of Vancouver’s longest running holiday celebrations, with 15 acres covered in dazzling displays, perfect for family outings or Instagram photo ops.
When & Where: November 29 – January 5 at 5251 Oak St, Vancouver
Cost: $28
Dundarave Christmas Fair (Nov 30) FREE
West Vancouver’s signature holiday celebration, the Dundarave Festival of Lights, returns with its winning combination of two Vancouverite loves – the North Shore and Christmas.
They will be hosting a series of events, starting with their Christmas Fair on November 30th, and ending with thei Christmas Wassail and giant bonfire on December 21st.
When & Where: November 30 from noon to dusk at Dundarave Beach Park
Cost: Free
Latin Christmas Party 2024 (Nov 30)
The Venezuelan Canadian Society of BC and Major Scale Production invite you to celebrate the joy and spirit of the holiday season, Latin style.
Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with vibrant music, mouth-watering Venezuelan food, and joyful holiday traditions.
When & Where: November 30 from 7 pm at the Burnaby Hall, 7837 Canada Way, Burnaby
Cost: $65
Elektra presents The Light of Hope Returning (Nov 30 & Dec 1)
Elektra’s season opener, The Light of Hope Returning, showcases Shawn Kirchener’s folk-infused oratorio melding gospel, jazz, and bluegrass elements into a vibrant celebration of winter, solstice, and Christmas themes.
Accompanying this dynamic composition, the concert features originally created video art by Kevork Mourad, whose visual storytelling adds a profound layer of depth and emotion.
When & Where: Nov 30 at 7:30 pm and Dec 1 at 4 pm at the Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 W 45th Ave, Vancouver
Cost: $42
Other Ongoing Things to Do
Cirque du Soleil: ECHO (Oct 9-Dec 15)
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Cirque du Soleil is set to return to Vancouver this October with their mesmerizing show, “ECHO.”
This highly anticipated event promises to once again transport audiences into a world of wonder and awe as only Cirque du Soleil can.
When & Where: October 21-December 31 at Concord Pacific Place, 88 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Cost: $60-$70
Winter Vallea Lumina (Mid Oct-Jan)
Hit the Sea to Sky Highway and embark on a date night you won’t soon forget in Whistler. While hitting the slopes may not be for everyone, couples can always cap off their day with an evening spent at one of BC’s most magical outdoor attractions.
The idyllic winter destination is home to Vallea Lumina, a one-of-a-kind multimedia experience night walk nestled in the picturesque wilderness of Cougar Mountain.
When & Where: Cougar Mountain Road, Whistler BC
Cost: $60.50
Catch a Game
- Canucks: One of our favourite things about Fall is the start of another Canucks season. Be sure to grab your tickets early!
- Vancouver Giants: Hockey enthusiasts can gear up to support their favorite team and witness thrilling matchups as the Vancouver Giants take to the ice once again.
Fall Hikes
This summer has been a hot one, so you may not have been able to enjoy a nice hike as much as you wanted to. No worries though, September in Vancouver is the perfect time to go explore the great outdoors.
So why not check out some amazing hikes before summer ends? You can explore an abandoned train wreck, or check out a beautiful waterfall. There are even hikes you can will enjoy even if you usually don’t get much exercise.
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