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free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 23, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
August 23, 2026. Free shows, free concerts, free movies, free tours, free readings, worshops, lectures, etc. are New York's best kept secret! Learn all about it and do not miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides: NYC never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So start using these unique New York City opportunities today, August 23, 2026!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 23, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (August 23, 2026) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
Join the Club!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
35 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Sunday, August 23, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park
Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Soccer, Tennis, & Golf
Today's Schedule:
9:00am - 11:00am Premier League Soccer- Bournemouth vs Mancester
11:00am - 1:30pm Premier League Soccer Moments- Liverpool vs Newcastle
1:30pm - 5:00pm Tennis- Cincinnati Open
5:00pm - 7:00pm Golf PGA Tour 2026
7:00pm - 9:00pm Tennis- Cincinnati Open
*Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Explore the Stories behind Korea's Tea Traditions (Ceremony, Tasting, & Snack Preparation)
This immersive workshop invites participants to experience the beauty of Korean tea culture. It includes an introduction to Darye (Korean tea ceremony), a guided tasting of traditional Korean teas, and a hands-on workshop creating traditional Korean snacks. Participants will explore the stories behind Korea's tea traditions, discover the characteristics of a variety of traditional teas, and learn how tea and traditional confections are thoughtfully paired to create harmony in flavor, texture, and presentation. By bringing together tea, tea snacks, and the philosophy behind them, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural values that continue to shape Korean tea culture today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Tour | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial
This complimentary shuttle loops through more than 30 locations across Lower Manhattan, covering major sites from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Financial District and the World Trade Center area. Busses arrive about every 15 minutes throughout the day. Riders can board or exit at any marked stop, with unlimited trips at no cost. Dayly service.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking on the Hudson
A welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with safety gear, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Guests must know how to swim. First-come, first-served, sign-up line often closes early due to high demand.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Tai Chi in the Garden
Start your Sunday with a peaceful Tai Chi session, led by Tai Chi Solution. This gentle movement practice promotes balance, focus, and relaxation in a calm garden setting. All levels welcome.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...
Park Walk | Walk along the East River: Learn about History, Architecture, & Ecology
Experienced park docents lead a walking tour to explore the history of the Brooklyn waterfront, the area's sustainable design and ecology, and how the park came to life!
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Dancing | Bollywood and Bhangra Dance Workshop (All Levels Welcome)
Ajna Dance Company leads an energetic dance workshop! Learn easy-to-follow dance moves inspired by vibrant South Asian music and culture. Whether you’re trying Bollywood and Bhangra for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave energized, inspired, and ready to hit the dance floor. No dance experience needed!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities
Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park
A welcome multi-level yoga class in the park open to everyone. Bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Fair | Outdoor Midtown Market
Celebrate community, creativity, and summer at this vibrant street fair! There will be an array of local vendors' booths. Enjoy delicious food and a variety of fun activities.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Workshop | Play the Creative Word Game Scrabble in the Park
Sit for a spell and play a game of Scrabble!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday at a Unique Art Museum
Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Screening | Sun Ra: Do the Impossible (2025) -- Documentary on a Jazz Icon (with Live Music Performance)
Discover the extraordinary life of poet, philosopher, and music visionary Sun Ra. With his ever-evolving collective, the Sun Ra Arkestra, he self-produced more than 200 albums, stretching the boundaries of jazz. Director: Christine Turner Featuring a performance from James Stewart Quartet. Saxophonist James Stewart has worked with the Duke Ellington Orchestra (under the direction of Mercer Ellington), Abdullah Ibrahim, Frank Foster's Loud Minority big band, the Lionel Hampton big band, Gloria Gaynor, The Dells, The Temptations, and the late great Danny Mixon. He has long been a member of the Sun Ra Arkestra.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | An Afternoon of Rowing in New York Harbor
At this rowing session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced coxswain to steer the boat and a mixture of experienced and new rowers. The boats, Whitehall gigs, are stable, traditional working boats for four rowers and a coxswain. No experience is necessary and rowers of all ability levels are welcome! The rowing sessions last several hours and are designed to be excursions: groups row against the tide to a destination, take a break onshore or in a protected cove, then return home with the tide. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please complete the waiver before
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Family Kayaking on the East River
Glide along the water this summer in an East River embayment with a kayaking session! All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers -- life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. This program is specifically geared for kids and families, allowing younger paddlers to go solo in single kayaks! Kids aged 7 and older can paddle solo (as long as a guardian is present) thanks to additional on-water safety boaters from The Kayak Foundation who are specially trained to work with kids. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Register for a 20-minute time slot. Please note this event is subject to change due to weather or other extenuating circumstances
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century
This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park
This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | The History of NYC's Chinatown: Episode 4 – Corky Lee's Photographic Revolution -- Documentary + Talk
A cross-cultural storytelling series exploring the people and movements that have shaped America. Organizers will screen The History of NYC's Chinatown: Episode 4 – Corky Lee's Photographic Revolution. A pioneering photographer and activist made New York's Chinatowns visible, documenting a community's fight for justice, recognition, and equality. The screening will be followed by an engaging conversation with cultural leaders and academics Andrea Louie, Abosede George, and Ava Chin. Through film, storytelling, and conversation, attendees will explore resilience, culture, and the collective action that continues to shape communities today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove
This event provides the equipment, instruction, and oversight you need to experience a safe and fun afternoon of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry, and on-site changing rooms will be available for use. To save time, you can also sign a waiver before arriving to save time, available at the link provided. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. You may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before the boathouse closes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Moulin Rouge! (2001): Baz Luhrmann's Jukebox Musical Romantic Drama
A poor Bohemian poet in 1890s Paris falls for a beautiful courtesan and nightclub star coveted by a jealous duke. A Millennial Movie Musical that breaks all the rules! Director: Baz Luhrmann Cast: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, John Leguizamo, Jim Broadbent, Richard Roxburgh Baz Luhrmann is an Australian film director, producer, writer and actor whose various projects extend from film and television into theatre, music and the recording industries. He is regarded by some as a contemporary example of an auteur for his style and deep involvement in the writing, directing, design and musical components of all his work. In Australia, he is the most commercially successful native director, and four of his films are in the top ten highest worldwide-grossing Australian films ever.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
This jam session is open to all musicians. Come and play or just listen to some jazzy tunes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Carnegie Hall-Featured Trombonist Brings Tunes by Erykah Badu, Alice Coltrane, & More
An afternoon of jazz with Grace Rock, trombonist. Glass Clouds Ensemble hosts Grace Rock and friends for an afternoon of jazz on the porch! Enjoy a range of music spanning from Donny Hathaway and Erykah Badu to Elvin Jones and Alice Coltrane.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Explore the Stories behind Korea's Tea Traditions (Ceremony, Tasting, & Snack Preparation)
This immersive workshop invites participants to experience the beauty of Korean tea culture. It includes an introduction to Darye (Korean tea ceremony), a guided tasting of traditional Korean teas, and a hands-on workshop creating traditional Korean snacks. Participants will explore the stories behind Korea's tea traditions, discover the characteristics of a variety of traditional teas, and learn how tea and traditional confections are thoughtfully paired to create harmony in flavor, texture, and presentation. By bringing together tea, tea snacks, and the philosophy behind them, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural values that continue to shape Korean tea culture today.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists
Berta Indeed presents a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Music Festival in the Park: Rhythm-Driven Salsa & Latin Jazz Ensemble
This festival brings the best local talent to the stage each summer, filling the park with music and movement. Bring your friends, family, and dance moves--all ages are welcome! This performance features the salsa and Latin jazz ensemble the Ray Delgado Project. Led by percussionist Ray Delgado, the group features seven talented musicians on vibraphone, piano, bass, bongos, congas, timbales, and vocals, delivering a rich and authentic Latin sound rooted in New York's musical tradition.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
Jeffrey Swann, piano. All-Beethoven (1770-1827) Program: Sonata in G major, Op. 31, No. 1 Sonata in D minor, Op. 31 No. 2 (“Tempest”) Sonata in E-flat major, Op. 31 No. 3 Sonata in C major, Op. 53 (“Waldstein”)
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Roller Dance Social In a Park with Live DJ
Get ready to roll into the excitement at an outdoor skate circle. With live DJs spinning the tunes, is as much fun to watch as it is to join! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, bring your own skates and get ready to groove with roller dancing. All skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Children under 14 must wear helmets for safety.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:45 pm
Free
Free
Poetry Reading | An Evening of Poetry in the Garden
Enjoy an outdoor poetry reading hosted in partnership with McNally Jackson. Submit your work at the link provided to read at the event!
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn More about African Culinary Traditions
The famed culinary collective traces the odyssey of a beloved food across cultures and geographies: an iconic dish, but also a lens into migration, memory, and shared histories across the whole of the African diaspora. Guests: Niara Sterling and more to be announced. Seating opens 30 minutes before showtime and is available on the grass or benches.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Concert | 5X Grammy-WInning Multilingual Fusion Artist in the Park
Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo takes the stage. She is known for her multilingual fusion of Afrobeat, pop, jazz, reggae, and various African traditions and percussive rhythms, which has earned her international acclaim. Over her multi-decade career, she's collaborated with the likes of Philip Glass and the Kronos Quartet to Peter Gabriel, Alicia Keys, Dr. John, and Branford Marsalis. Her latest album, Hope!!, features contributions from Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers, Ayra Starr, Quavo, and The Gap Band's Charlie Wilson. DJ Freshy K, a Nigerian Afrobeats specialist based in NYC who has opened for the likes of Jidenna, Flavour, Olamide, Davido, and Wizkid, opens the show with a DJ set.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Live Acoustic Evening
Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Sophia Stewart.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
When the King of Sicilia becomes convinced his pregnant wife has been unfaithful, the royal baby is smuggled to the coast of Bohemia where an old shepherd finds her and renames her Perdita. Sixteen years later, Perdita falls in love with another young shepherd, Doricles, who turns out to be a prince in disguise. Honesty is a fool and true love the only answer in this mysterious, romantic tale of defiance and destiny. Written by William Shakespeare. Choreography by Mimi Lieber. Directed by Daniel Sullivan. Cast: Heschel Bay, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Teagle F. Bougere, Chuck Cooper, Peter Douskalis, Matthew Eby, Raúl Esparza, Isabela Ferrer, Katie Griffith, Alex Hernandez,
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Concert | Oscar and Grammy Nominee at One of the World's Most Famous Venues
Regular Price: $45CFT Member Price: $0.00
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