Sloths and other exotic animals, a solar eclipse demonstration and a tomahawk toss were among the over 40 exhibits at the North Country Kids Expo held at SUNY Canton March 16.

The annual event was hosted by the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce.

"The Roos House gymnasium was packed this weekend, and we were absolutely blown away by the 1,400 attendees overall, including 648 kids,  which doubled from 2023,” said Kathryn Puleo, Tourism & Events Manager of the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce.

“It was so busy in the morning that many exhibitors called in help to restock their tables midday with brochures and goodies,” she said.

While children played, parents were able to gather information from local businesses, organizations and exhibitors who cater to families in the North Country, including area attractions, childcare, education, family services, health care, and shopping.

"We had a lot of new exhibitors and activities this year. Participants were very creative on how to best provide a fun memorable experience for children, and there were plenty of interactive activities that kept families engaged for 2-3 hours,” said Puleo.

"This is the second year we provided entertainment to enhance families' experience and showcase businesses throughout the North Country. We will continue to provide a variety of entertainment to showcase businesses through the county on a rotating schedule and keep the expo unique each year,” said Puleo.

The featured entertainer was Lena the Lizard Lady with her hugely popular sloths, as well as her snakes and other reptiles.

Another highlight was the kid-friendly total eclipse presentation by Aileen O’Donoghue, St. Lawrence University professor. Her enthusiasm for the upcoming eclipse was contagious among the attendees who stopped at her information booth and received solar eclipse glasses.

Inflatable tomahawks to throw at a giant bullseye provided by the local Boy Scout Club had a non-stop line of interested children.

Other activities included making green slime and other arts and crafts, a bicycle obstacle course, and giant indoor lawn games.

Children received a lot of giveaways, such as free books, piggy banks, and bird nest kits.

"We will also continue the Kid Biz opportunity for young entrepreneurs that was introduced in 2023 for children up to the age of 16 to give their business a try,” said Puleo.

“All profits go into STLC Chamber community programming and the chamber's efforts to support local businesses, enhancing the economy of St. Lawrence County,” said Puleo.  Businesses interested in attending the 2025 Kids Expo are asked to email Puleo at Kathryn@SLCchamber.org