Barclays Center: Complete Visitor Guide to Brooklyn’s Premier Sports & Entertainment Arena (2026)

Whether you’re planning to watch an NBA game, attend a sold-out concert, or experience one of New York City’s biggest entertainment venues, the Barclays Center should be on your itinerary. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, this world-class arena hosts everything from basketball games and championship events to concerts, comedy shows, family entertainment, and cultural performances throughout the year.

The Barclays Center Brooklyn has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York since opening its doors in 2012. As the home arena of the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Liberty, it attracts millions of sports fans annually. Beyond basketball, the Barclays Center concert lineup features internationally acclaimed artists, making it one of the busiest indoor arenas in the United States.

If you’re searching for information about Barclays Center tickets, wondering what’s happening at Barclays Center today, or looking for travel tips before visiting the Barclays Center New York, this comprehensive guide has everything you need. From transportation and parking to seating, visitor tips, and nearby attractions, you’ll find practical information to help you plan a memorable visit.

Table of Contents

What Is the Barclays Center?

The Barclays Center is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor arena located in Downtown Brooklyn, New York City. Designed to host a wide variety of sporting events, live concerts, award shows, family entertainment, and community events, the venue has become one of the premier entertainment destinations on the East Coast.

Often referred to as the Barclays Center Brooklyn or Brooklyn Barclays Center, the arena welcomes millions of visitors every year. Its strategic location near Atlantic Terminal makes it one of the easiest entertainment venues to reach using New York City’s public transportation network.

The arena serves as the permanent home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and the WNBA’s New York Liberty. Throughout the year, it also hosts boxing championships, wrestling events, esports tournaments, college basketball games, comedy performances, graduation ceremonies, and internationally recognized music tours.

Its modern architecture, excellent acoustics, premium amenities, and convenient location have helped establish the Barclays Center as one of the leading entertainment venues in North America.

History of the Barclays Center

The vision for the Barclays Center began as part of a broader redevelopment project intended to transform Downtown Brooklyn into a vibrant residential, commercial, and entertainment district. Construction officially began in 2010 after years of planning and development.

The arena officially opened in September 2012 with a series of high-profile concerts that immediately showcased its ability to attract world-class performers. Shortly afterward, the Brooklyn Nets relocated from New Jersey, making the Barclays Center their new home court and marking the return of major professional sports to Brooklyn after several decades.

One of the venue’s most distinctive features is its weathered steel exterior, which gives the building a unique industrial appearance while paying tribute to Brooklyn’s architectural heritage. The sweeping entrance canopy has become an iconic landmark and a popular meeting point for visitors attending events.

Over the years, the Barclays Center has welcomed some of the world’s biggest musicians, championship boxing matches, political events, esports competitions, and nationally televised entertainment programs. Today, the Barclays Center New York is recognized globally as one of the busiest and most prestigious indoor arenas.

Why the Barclays Center Is So Popular

Several factors contribute to the continued popularity of the Barclays Center.

Its location in Brooklyn places visitors within minutes of Manhattan while offering easy access through multiple subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), buses, and rideshare services. This convenience makes attending events simple for both locals and tourists.

The Barclays Center concert schedule consistently features internationally renowned artists across pop, hip-hop, rock, country, Latin, K-pop, R&B, and electronic music. Fans frequently search for upcoming concerts at Barclays Center because the venue regularly hosts sold-out performances from some of the biggest names in the music industry.

Sports enthusiasts appreciate the arena’s electric atmosphere during Brooklyn Nets NBA games and New York Liberty WNBA matchups. In addition to professional basketball, the venue regularly hosts college basketball tournaments, boxing events, mixed martial arts competitions, and other major sporting events.

Visitors also enjoy premium seating, luxury suites, modern concessions, mobile ticketing, high-speed Wi-Fi, accessible facilities, and a wide range of dining options. These features create a comfortable experience whether you’re attending a basketball game or a Barclays Center concert.

Because of its versatility, the Barclays Center today continues to rank among the highest-grossing entertainment venues in the United States, attracting millions of guests each year.

Where Is Barclays Center Located?

The Barclays Center is located at:

620 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217
United States

Positioned in the vibrant Downtown Brooklyn neighborhood, the arena sits at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Flatbush Avenue. This central location makes it a convenient destination for visitors coming from Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Long Island, or other parts of New York City.

The Brooklyn Barclays Center is directly connected to Atlantic Terminal, one of Brooklyn’s busiest transportation hubs. Because of this, many visitors choose public transportation instead of driving, especially during large events and sold-out concerts.

Several popular attractions are located within walking distance of the arena, including Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and numerous restaurants, shopping centers, hotels, and entertainment venues.

Whether you’re visiting for a sporting event, searching for Barclays Center tickets to a live show, or planning to attend a Barclays Center concert, the arena’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Brooklyn.

How to Reach the Barclays Center

Getting to the Barclays Center Brooklyn is straightforward thanks to its excellent transportation connections.

By Subway

The subway is widely considered the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Barclays Center. Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center Station serves multiple subway lines, allowing visitors to travel from nearly every borough of New York City.

Using public transportation also helps visitors avoid heavy traffic and parking expenses during popular events.

By Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)

Travelers arriving from Long Island can take the Long Island Rail Road directly to Atlantic Terminal. The station is connected to the Barclays Center, making it one of the easiest options for concertgoers and sports fans traveling from suburban areas.

By Bus

Numerous Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus routes stop within a short walking distance of the arena. This provides convenient access for visitors traveling from neighborhoods throughout Brooklyn and nearby boroughs.

By Taxi or Rideshare

Uber, Lyft, and traditional New York City taxis operate throughout Brooklyn. Dedicated rideshare pickup and drop-off locations are available near the arena during major events, although wait times may increase after concerts and basketball games.

By Car

Visitors driving to the Barclays Center New York can access the venue via several major highways, including the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and nearby arterial roads. Since event traffic can become congested, arriving early is recommended.

Walking and Cycling

If you’re staying in Downtown Brooklyn or nearby neighborhoods, walking is an enjoyable option. The area features pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, bike lanes, and Citi Bike stations, making cycling another convenient transportation choice.

Parking Options

Although many visitors rely on public transportation, several parking facilities are available for those driving to the Barclays Center.

Official event parking can often be reserved in advance through authorized parking providers. Pre-booking your parking space helps reduce stress and saves time on busy event days.

Several private parking garages are located within a five to ten-minute walk of the arena. Prices vary depending on the event, day of the week, and demand, with premium concerts and playoff games generally commanding higher parking fees.

Street parking near the Barclays Center Brooklyn is limited and subject to New York City’s parking regulations. Visitors should carefully check posted signs for alternate-side parking rules, meter requirements, and time restrictions to avoid fines.

For a smoother experience, consider these parking tips:

  • Reserve parking online before your visit, especially for popular Barclays Center concerts.
  • Arrive at least one hour before the event begins to avoid traffic congestion.
  • Keep your digital parking confirmation readily available.
  • Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.
  • If nearby garages are full, consider parking farther away and using the subway for the final leg of your journey.

Whether you’re attending an NBA game, purchasing Barclays Center tickets for a sold-out concert, or planning a visit to the Barclays Center today, choosing the right transportation and parking strategy can save time and make your experience much more enjoyable.

Barclays Center Capacity and Seating

One of the biggest reasons visitors choose the Barclays Center for live entertainment is its modern seating design. Whether you’re attending an NBA game, a WNBA matchup, a sold-out Barclays Center concert, or another special event, the arena offers excellent sightlines from nearly every section.

The venue’s seating configuration changes depending on the type of event. Basketball games feature a traditional court layout, while concerts may include floor seating, extended stages, or center-stage setups that maximize audience capacity.

If you’re planning your first visit, reviewing the Barclays Center seating chart before purchasing Barclays Center tickets can help you choose the best seats based on your budget and viewing preferences.

Seating Capacity

The Barclays Center accommodates different crowd sizes depending on the event being hosted.

Approximate capacities include:

  • Basketball games: Around 17,700 spectators
  • Concerts: Up to 19,000 attendees depending on stage configuration
  • Boxing and wrestling events: Approximately 17,000–18,000 guests
  • Family shows and special events: Capacity varies according to event layout

These flexible seating arrangements allow the Barclays Center Brooklyn to host everything from intimate performances to large-scale international tours and championship sporting events.

Barclays Center Seating Chart

The Barclays Center seating chart is designed to provide comfortable viewing experiences throughout the arena.

Lower Bowl

The Lower Bowl offers some of the closest views of the action. These seats are ideal for basketball fans who want to experience the excitement up close and for concertgoers looking for an immersive live music experience.

Courtside Seats

Courtside seating provides the most premium experience during Brooklyn Nets games. Guests enjoy exceptional views, luxury amenities, and exclusive hospitality services.

Floor Seats for Concerts

Many Barclays Center concerts feature floor seating positioned directly in front of the stage. These seats are among the most sought-after and typically sell out quickly for major artists.

Upper Bowl

The Upper Bowl provides a more affordable option without sacrificing visibility. Thanks to the arena’s thoughtful design, many visitors find these seats offer surprisingly good views for both sporting events and concerts.

Suites and Premium Clubs

Luxury suites and premium club seating include private lounges, upscale food and beverage options, comfortable seating, and dedicated service. These packages are popular for corporate events, celebrations, and VIP experiences.

Best Seats for Concerts

The ideal seating location depends on the type of concert and your personal preferences.

For the best overall experience:

  • Floor seats offer the closest interaction with performers.
  • Lower Bowl center sections provide an excellent balance between view and price.
  • Side-stage lower sections often deliver outstanding sightlines for large productions.
  • Upper-level center seats are great value for visitors looking to enjoy live music without paying premium prices.

Before purchasing Barclays Center tickets, always review the seating map for the specific event, as stage layouts vary by artist and production.

Barclays Center Events Today

If you’re wondering what’s happening at Barclays Center today, you’ll find a diverse lineup of entertainment throughout the year. The venue hosts hundreds of events annually, making it one of the busiest arenas in North America.

Depending on the season, visitors may find:

  • Brooklyn Nets NBA games
  • New York Liberty WNBA games
  • International music tours
  • Comedy performances
  • Family entertainment shows
  • Professional wrestling events
  • Boxing championships
  • College basketball tournaments
  • Esports competitions
  • Community and cultural events

Because the Barclays Center today schedule changes frequently, it’s always a good idea to check the official event calendar before planning your visit. Event dates, start times, parking information, and entry requirements may vary.

Planning ahead also gives you a better chance of securing Barclays Center tickets before popular events sell out.

Barclays Center Concert

The Barclays Center concert experience is one of the venue’s biggest attractions. Since opening in 2012, the arena has welcomed many of the world’s most celebrated artists and continues to rank among the highest-grossing concert venues globally.

Whether you’re a fan of pop, hip-hop, rock, country, Latin, K-pop, R&B, or electronic music, chances are your favorite artist has either performed or will perform at the Barclays Center Brooklyn.

Why Major Artists Choose Barclays Center

Several factors make the Barclays Center New York a preferred destination for touring artists.

The venue offers:

  • Advanced sound engineering
  • High-definition LED displays
  • Flexible stage configurations
  • Modern backstage facilities
  • Large audience capacity
  • Convenient transportation for fans
  • Strong ticket demand

Its location in Brooklyn also allows artists to attract audiences from across New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, and neighboring states.

Popular Concerts Hosted Here

Over the years, the Barclays Center has hosted performances by internationally acclaimed musicians across multiple genres.

Visitors can expect to see:

  • Grammy Award-winning singers
  • Global pop icons
  • Hip-hop legends
  • International K-pop groups
  • Rock bands
  • Country music stars
  • Latin artists
  • Comedy tours
  • Holiday performances

The venue’s diverse event calendar ensures there’s something for nearly every music fan throughout the year.

Concert Experience

Attending a Barclays Center concert is about much more than watching a live performance.

Visitors enjoy:

  • Excellent acoustics
  • Large video screens
  • Comfortable seating
  • Fast concession service
  • Merchandise stores
  • Mobile ticket scanning
  • Accessible seating options
  • Cashless payment systems

For the best experience, many attendees arrive at least one hour before showtime to explore the arena, purchase merchandise, and avoid long security lines.

Barclays Center Tickets

Buying Barclays Center tickets is simple thanks to several secure purchasing options. Whether you’re attending a basketball game, concert, comedy show, or family event, purchasing tickets from trusted sources helps ensure a smooth entry experience.

Demand for major events can be extremely high, especially for playoff games and internationally recognized performers. Booking early often provides more seating choices and better pricing.

Where to Buy Barclays Center Tickets

Visitors can purchase tickets through several reliable sources, including:

  • The official Barclays Center website
  • The Barclays Center box office
  • Authorized ticketing partners
  • Verified resale marketplaces

Always avoid purchasing tickets from unverified sellers, as counterfeit tickets may be denied at entry.

Ticket Prices

Barclays Center ticket prices vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Event popularity
  • Seat location
  • Day of the week
  • Artist or opposing team
  • Premium seating availability
  • Demand

Generally, visitors can expect:

  • Upper-level seats to be the most budget-friendly.
  • Lower Bowl seats to offer a balance between price and experience.
  • Floor seats and courtside tickets to command premium prices.
  • Luxury suites and VIP packages to include exclusive amenities and hospitality services.

Tips for Getting Cheap Tickets

If you’re looking to save money on Barclays Center tickets, consider the following strategies:

Book Early

Popular Barclays Center concerts and sporting events often increase in price as the event date approaches.

Attend Weekday Events

Midweek games and concerts sometimes offer lower ticket prices than weekend events.

Use Verified Presale Opportunities

Many artists, sports teams, and sponsors offer presale access before tickets become available to the general public.

Compare Seating Sections

A small change in seat location can significantly reduce the overall ticket cost while still providing an excellent view.

Monitor Verified Resale Listings

Some ticket holders lower prices closer to the event date if they can no longer attend.

Sports at Barclays Center

Although the Barclays Center is widely recognized for its concerts, sports remain at the heart of the venue’s identity.

Throughout the year, thousands of fans gather to support professional basketball teams and attend other major sporting events hosted in the arena.

Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets have called the Barclays Center home since 2012.

Game days transform the arena into an energetic environment filled with passionate fans, interactive entertainment, music, and halftime performances.

Watching an NBA game here offers an exciting experience for both lifelong basketball fans and first-time visitors.

In addition to regular-season games, the arena hosts preseason matchups and potential playoff contests, making Barclays Center tickets especially valuable during championship runs.

New York Liberty

The Barclays Center is also home to the New York Liberty, one of the WNBA’s most successful franchises.

As women’s basketball continues to grow in popularity, Liberty games regularly attract enthusiastic crowds and provide an exciting atmosphere for families and sports fans alike.

Visitors attending New York Liberty games can enjoy the same modern facilities, premium seating options, and excellent accessibility found during NBA events.

Other Sporting Events

Beyond professional basketball, the Barclays Center Brooklyn regularly hosts a variety of sporting competitions, including:

  • Professional boxing championships
  • Wrestling entertainment events
  • College basketball tournaments
  • Mixed martial arts events
  • International sporting exhibitions
  • Esports championships
  • Special sporting showcases

This diverse schedule ensures the Barclays Center today remains one of New York City’s premier destinations for sports and live entertainment throughout the year.

Food and Drinks at Barclays Center

No visit to the Barclays Center Brooklyn is complete without exploring its impressive food and beverage offerings. The arena is known for providing a wide variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re attending a basketball game, a Barclays Center concert, or another live event, you’ll find everything from quick snacks to gourmet meals.

Unlike many sports arenas that offer only standard concession food, the Barclays Center New York partners with well-known local restaurants and food vendors to deliver an authentic Brooklyn dining experience.

Best Food Vendors

Visitors can choose from a wide selection of concession stands offering classic stadium favorites and specialty meals.

Popular menu items include:

  • Gourmet burgers
  • Fresh pizza
  • Chicken sandwiches
  • Hot dogs
  • Loaded fries
  • Tacos
  • Popcorn
  • Soft pretzels
  • Desserts
  • Premium beverages

Food selections may vary depending on the event, ensuring guests have plenty of options throughout the year.

Local Brooklyn Favorites

One of the highlights of dining at the Barclays Center is the opportunity to enjoy flavors inspired by Brooklyn’s diverse culinary scene. Many vendors feature locally inspired dishes that reflect the borough’s multicultural food culture.

This gives visitors a chance to enjoy authentic Brooklyn flavors without leaving the arena.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

The Barclays Center continues to expand its plant-based menu to accommodate changing dietary preferences.

Guests can often find:

  • Plant-based burgers
  • Fresh salads
  • Vegan wraps
  • Vegetarian pizza
  • Fruit cups
  • Dairy-free snacks

Checking the event-day food guide can help visitors locate vendors offering vegetarian and vegan meals.

Bars and Lounges

Several bars and premium lounges throughout the arena offer cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Guests with premium seating or suite access may also enjoy exclusive lounges featuring upscale dining, private bars, and comfortable seating areas before and during events.

Visitor Tips Before You Go

Planning ahead can make your visit to the Barclays Center today more enjoyable, whether you’re attending your first basketball game or returning for another Barclays Center concert.

Arrive Early

Security screening and ticket scanning can take time, especially before sold-out events. Arriving at least 60 to 90 minutes early allows you to avoid long lines, explore the arena, and locate your seats comfortably.

Use Mobile Tickets

Most events encourage or require digital ticket entry. Download your Barclays Center tickets to your smartphone before arriving to avoid delays at the entrance.

Review the Bag Policy

The arena has security policies regarding bags and prohibited items. Bringing only essential belongings can speed up the screening process.

Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to explore the surrounding neighborhood before or after the event. Indoor temperatures may also vary depending on the season and crowd size.

Stay Connected

Free Wi-Fi is available in many areas of the arena, allowing visitors to access digital tickets, share photos, and stay connected throughout the event.

Accessibility Services

The Barclays Center Brooklyn offers accessible seating, elevators, wheelchair assistance, hearing assistance devices, and other accommodations to ensure all guests enjoy a comfortable experience.

Follow Event Updates

If you’re attending an event at the Barclays Center today, check for schedule updates, transportation notices, and entry instructions before leaving for the venue.

Hotels Near Barclays Center

Visitors traveling from outside New York City will find numerous accommodation options within walking distance or a short subway ride from the Barclays Center.

Luxury Hotels

Luxury travelers can choose from upscale hotels offering premium amenities such as rooftop lounges, fitness centers, fine dining restaurants, concierge services, and spacious guest rooms.

These properties are ideal for visitors planning weekend getaways or attending multiple events during their stay.

Mid-Range Hotels

Mid-range hotels provide excellent value while offering modern rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, business facilities, and convenient access to public transportation.

These accommodations are popular among families, business travelers, and concertgoers.

Budget Hotels

Budget-friendly hotels and inns are also available near the Barclays Center New York, making it possible to enjoy major events without exceeding your travel budget.

Booking accommodations several weeks in advance is recommended, particularly during playoff games, holiday weekends, and major Barclays Center concert tours.

Best Restaurants Near Barclays Center

One advantage of visiting the Barclays Center Brooklyn is the abundance of restaurants nearby. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal before an event or a relaxing dinner afterward, the surrounding neighborhood offers something for every taste.

Pizza Restaurants

Brooklyn is famous for its pizza, and visitors can enjoy everything from classic New York-style slices to artisan wood-fired pizzas just minutes from the arena.

Burger Restaurants

Several casual eateries near the Barclays Center serve gourmet burgers, fries, sandwiches, and craft beverages, making them ideal for pre-game meals.

Fine Dining

Visitors celebrating special occasions can choose from upscale restaurants featuring American, Italian, French, Japanese, and contemporary cuisine.

Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

Brooklyn offers numerous restaurants specializing in plant-based cuisine, organic meals, healthy bowls, and vegan comfort food.

Coffee Shops and Cafés

Local cafés surrounding the Barclays Center provide excellent places to grab coffee, pastries, breakfast, or light snacks before exploring the neighborhood.

Things to Do Near Barclays Center

Many visitors spend an entire day exploring Brooklyn before attending an event at the Barclays Center. The surrounding area offers numerous attractions suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and photographers.

Atlantic Terminal

Located directly beside the arena, Atlantic Terminal features shopping, restaurants, grocery stores, and convenient transportation connections.

Prospect Park

Designed by the creators of Central Park, Prospect Park offers walking trails, lakes, picnic areas, sports facilities, and seasonal events.

It’s a wonderful place to relax before an evening concert.

Brooklyn Museum

Art lovers can explore one of New York City’s largest museums, featuring collections that span ancient civilizations, contemporary art, and rotating exhibitions.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Located a short distance from the Barclays Center, this beautiful botanical garden is known for its cherry blossoms, themed gardens, and peaceful walking paths.

DUMBO

Visitors looking for iconic skyline views should head to DUMBO, one of Brooklyn’s most photographed neighborhoods.

You’ll find waterfront parks, art galleries, cafés, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge.

Brooklyn Bridge

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge remains one of New York City’s most memorable experiences and pairs perfectly with an evening event at the Barclays Center New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Barclays Center located?

The Barclays Center is located at 620 Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Brooklyn, New York City, adjacent to Atlantic Terminal and easily accessible by subway, bus, LIRR, taxi, and rideshare services.

How many people can the Barclays Center hold?

The arena accommodates approximately 17,700 spectators for basketball games and up to 19,000 guests for concerts, depending on the stage configuration.

Is the Barclays Center in Brooklyn or New York City?

The Barclays Center is located in Brooklyn, one of the five boroughs that make up New York City.

What subway goes to Barclays Center?

Several subway lines stop at Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center Station, making it one of the most accessible entertainment venues in New York.

How much do Barclays Center tickets cost?

Ticket prices vary depending on the event, seat location, and demand. Budget-friendly upper-level seats are often available, while courtside, floor seats, and VIP packages typically cost more.

Can you bring bags into the Barclays Center?

Yes, but visitors should review the venue’s current bag policy before arriving, as size restrictions and prohibited items may apply.

Is parking available?

Yes. Multiple parking garages are located near the Barclays Center Brooklyn, and visitors can reserve parking in advance for many events.

What teams play at the Barclays Center?

The Brooklyn Nets of the NBA and the New York Liberty of the WNBA both call the Barclays Center home.

What concerts are coming to the Barclays Center?

The Barclays Center concert schedule changes throughout the year and includes performances by internationally recognized artists across many music genres. Checking the official event calendar is the best way to view upcoming shows.

What are the best seats for concerts?

Floor seats provide the closest experience, while Lower Bowl center sections offer an excellent combination of viewing quality and value. Upper-level center seats are also popular among visitors seeking affordable Barclays Center tickets.

Final Thoughts

The Barclays Center has earned its reputation as one of the most exciting sports and entertainment venues in the United States. From thrilling Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty games to unforgettable Barclays Center concerts, comedy performances, boxing events, and family shows, the arena offers something for every type of visitor.

Its central location, outstanding transportation connections, modern facilities, diverse dining options, and impressive event calendar make the Barclays Center Brooklyn a must-visit destination for both tourists and New York City residents. Whether you’re searching for Barclays Center tickets, planning to attend an event at the Barclays Center today, or organizing a weekend trip to Brooklyn, preparing in advance will help you make the most of your experience.

By choosing the right seats, arriving early, exploring nearby attractions, and taking advantage of Brooklyn’s vibrant food scene, you’ll enjoy a memorable visit to the Barclays Center New York. As one of the city’s premier entertainment destinations, the arena continues to host world-class events that attract millions of visitors each year, ensuring every trip offers an unforgettable experience.

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