Family events in North Country, NY

Make your own dinosaur garden using dinosaur decorations and plants, in the spirit of a fairy garden but with dino fun. You can design a scene like a dinosaur attacking a gnome village, recreate moments from famous dinosaur movies, or keep it simple with dinosaur accents. This program is for ages 9 and up, and registration is required.

A glow-themed fun run and walk at Jefferson Community College brings the community together to raise awareness about child abuse and to support the children and families served by the Child Advocacy Center of Northern New York. Participation helps fund no cost services such as advocacy, therapy, medical evaluations, forensic interviews, and ongoing support for children across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. Neon and glow attire is encouraged to light up the course. Pledge campaigns are open, and teams can be created to help raise awareness and critical funds for local children and families. Community partners are welcome, including food trucks, ice cream and dessert vendors, face painters, balloon artists, community organizations, local businesses, and providers of family friendly activities. There is no fee to take part as a vendor or partner, and participating groups are asked to create a pledge campaign and share it with their networks. For details on taking part as a vendor, organization, sponsor, or pledge team, contact Kristin Proven at 315-755-1434 or kristinp@vacjc.com. The focus is to shine a light on child abuse and help create a safer future for every child.

Settle in for an outdoor film suitable for all ages. Classic cinema snacks like popcorn and candy will be available, and the night sky with a waterfront backdrop adds to the charm. Bring blankets and chairs to stay comfortable and enjoy a cozy evening of fun.

The Franklin County Fair is a big annual community event at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Malone, featuring lots of family-friendly entertainment and competitions. Expect a packed lineup, including performances such as a concert with Jackson Dean and special guest The Castellows, plus events like the Demolition Derby, tractor pulls, and monster-truck action featuring the ECPW Versus Monster Trucks. The fair also highlights local showcases and contests, including the Miss Franklin County Fair pageant and auto show, along with other themed events for the weekend.

Test your skills in a dinosaur themed escape room where a runaway T-Rex is on the hunt. Work with your team to uncover clues and solve puzzles to find the library key and make your getaway within 45 minutes. Groups are limited to five people. Registration is recommended, and walk-ins may be accommodated if a time slot is open. For registration or questions, contact 315-785-7714 and ask for Ashley M.

A creative build session with giant blue blocks invites participants to construct hideouts, ball runs, and machines. Open to everyone. This session is one of three Big Blue Blocks playtimes.

Bring the kids to Story Time for Youngsters, where a new book will be read each week. After the reading, there will be a craft activity and light refreshments.

Participate in a hands-on animal care session led by staff, featuring feeding for the critter collection. Assist with feeding the pond fish and watch the turtles eat.

Explore the world of reptiles and amphibians at North Country Children's Museum with close encounters featuring snakes, frogs, tortoises, and more. The show is presented in two sessions so visitors have multiple chances to experience it. Participation is included with standard museum admission and available to all museum guests.

A demolition derby from DNA Motorsports comes to the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Malone, NY, bringing a full slate of competitions. Featured classes include Powerwheels, Diva Compact, Diva Full Size, Trucks, Junk Run, Bumper Swap Compact, Bumper Swap Full Size, Semi Stock Compact, and Semi Stock Full Size. Just Slingin TV is also seeking sponsors for the 2026 derby season with opportunities for businesses or derby teams to be featured in their videos.

Old Soul Design Shop teams up with Elmore SPCA and Tails of the Adirondack for a summer celebration of all things canine at Melissa Penfield Park. Dog lovers can look forward to dog-themed art, playful games, dog adoptions, craft beer, food, and more. Additional details will be announced.

Join DJ Love for a free, DJ-fueled summer dance party at City Hall Park. Kids and their caregivers can enjoy the interactive, wheelchair-accessible splash fountain while the music keeps the energy going.

Spend a weekend learning traditional rural skills at the Babbie Rural & Farm Learning Museum. The event features hands-on demonstrations and family-friendly activities, including butter making, chainsaw demonstrations, and sawmill operations. There are also shingle mill and blacksmith shop demonstrations, plus time to visit the museum’s animals and enjoy rides and exhibits such as Thomas the Train, the Stagecoach, the antique Fire Truck, a one-room schoolhouse, and the expanded playground. On Saturday, Valcour Brewing will be on-site offering craft beers.

The third annual Goat Yoga returns to the Jefferson County SPCA with a one hour outdoor class in the dog park. Practice on the grass while curious baby goats bounce and mingle around you. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for all experience levels. The session is led by Nicole of Windful Motivation Yoga & Meditation, a familiar instructor from previous goat and puppy yoga events. Please bring your own yoga mat, as mats are not provided. Registration is $30 per person, and each ticket helps fund medical care, food, and shelter for animals in need.

Explorer’s Flea Market at the Brouse House brings together a broad mix of vendors and activities in one place. Visitors can browse antiques and collectibles, unique handmade goods, and classic flea market finds, along with crystal and other metaphysical items. Food vendors are available, and psychic readers add to the variety. Whether treasure hunting, collecting, or exploring with friends or family, there is plenty to discover throughout this market.

Painted Pony Championship Rodeo heads to the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Malone with a program of timed events and judged riding. An intimate arena setting keeps the action easy to follow as competitors from the region and beyond showcase rodeo skill and stock handling with tight turns, crisp finishes, and stakes where even small mistakes can change the outcome. Tickets are available.

DJ Coco Entertainment and Cat of Old Soul Design Shop host a weekly family friendly hangout at Old Soul Design Shop Inc with karaoke in a welcoming setting. The atmosphere supports every singer, and there are snacks and beverages for all ages. Babies, grandparents, friends, and families are welcome. A suggested donation at the door supports accessibility for community events and entertainment.

The Salvation Army of Watertown hosts a free drop‑in program that gives children ages 6 to 12 a safe and engaging place to spend the day. Participants can get creative with arts and crafts, enjoy interactive games, take part in chapel time, head out on excursions, and meet special guests. Snacks and lunch are provided. The setting encourages friendship, learning, and growth in a positive, supportive environment. Space is limited, so registration is recommended. For details or to register, scan the QR code on the flyer or call 315-782-4470.

Art in the Park brings hands-on creativity to Malone Rec Park. Children of all ages can explore seasonal craft projects and head home with a completed piece each session. Participation is free, and every attendee can enjoy a complimentary summer lunch. Running throughout the season, this friendly program offers a welcoming place to create, learn, and have fun.

Free youth soccer clinics at Malone Rec Park offer a friendly way for kids and teens to build skills and confidence on the field. Led by experienced coaches and players, the sessions focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and having fun in a supportive setting. Participants practice dribbling, passing, shooting, ball control, and game awareness through engaging drills and small-sided games. Sessions are organized by age for 5–8, 9–12, and 13–18. All experience levels are welcome. Please bring water, shin guards, and soccer cleats or athletic shoes, along with a great attitude. No registration or fee is required.

This 4-day, 3-night overnight expedition is designed for campers ages 11 to 14. They’ll explore paddling and rock climbing through hands-on adventures like climbing at the Bolton Adventure Center challenge course, scaling granite, and paddling with St. Regis Canoe Outfitters. The program is gender inclusive for Femme, Trans, and Non-Binary campers, and it includes outdoor skills such as cooking over a camp stove and spending nights out in the woods.

Enjoy a hands-on, family-friendly weekend celebrating traditional rural crafts and skills at the Babbie Rural & Farm Learning Museum. There will be demonstrations like butter making, chainsaw demos, and sawmill operations, with sawmill runs scheduled at 10:30 AM to noon and again from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM both days. Visitors can also check out shingle mill and blacksmith shop demonstrations, plus activities like visiting the museum’s animals, riding Thomas the Train, the Stagecoach, and the antique Fire Truck, and exploring the one-room schoolhouse and playground. On Saturday, Valcour Brewing will be on-site from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM offering craft beers.

Youth of Lewis County (YOLC) hosts a weekly drop-in at The Raven’s Quill Bookstore where youth can unwind after school, be creative, and connect with their community. Activities include friendly video game matchups, music, space for art projects, and snacks, creating a relaxed place to spend time with friends. Parents are asked to complete a waiver.

Join a family-friendly recipe potluck at the library where food and stories go together. Bring a dish that represents your family history, and also include the written recipe to share. It is a great chance to socialize, meet other neighbors, and sample homemade favorites. For ages 13+.

Local musicians take the stage at the Franklin County Fair in a showcase hosted by The Performing Arts League of Malone. The event welcomes returning participants again this year.

Teen Drop-In Crafts is a monthly summer craft session where a craft station is set up for you in the Teen Space. Supplies are provided, and teens ages 12 to 17 are welcome to drop in anytime during the event window and work on crafts throughout the day.

An outdoor story time led by Ms. Jamie features stories, singing, dancing, and plenty of playful moments. Sessions are held on the lawn when the weather is nice, with a backup location in the library’s Children’s Room if needed. This weekly series runs throughout the summer and welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. For questions, contact Jamie at jlaplaca@ncls.org or 315-785-7709.

Ready 4 School 2026 brings families together at Massena Central High School for a community-focused back-to-school event. Nearly 600 children and family members take part each year, all with the goal of helping students begin the new school year feeling prepared and confident. With support from community partners, attendees can receive free school supplies and clothing, get free haircuts, and connect with community resources, with additional offerings available on site.

Join Mrs Paige for in-person or virtual story time, plus a craft. The event runs every Wednesday at 3:30 PM, and a story recording and craft details will be available for 30 days.

Get ready for a delightfully messy week of hands-on science at Gross-ology Science Camp. Kids will dive into the gross side of science by mixing, squishing, and investigating slimy, gooey, and surprising materials while learning the science behind it. Pre-registration is required. Scholarship spots may be available for kids who are currently enrolled in discounted membership.

Bring the kids for Family Storytime at the library. This program is for ages 2 and up with their families, with time to sing, dance, enjoy read-aloud stories, and make a fun craft together.

Join Hay Memorial Library and special guest readers for Summer Story Time at the Bandstand. This free downtown program is geared toward younger children, but everyone is welcome. Listen to classic and new tales while enjoying the harbor view, and feel free to bring your family along. Folding chairs and beach towels will be provided for participants to sit comfortably.

Member Appreciation Day spans all six branches with complimentary food and drinks available during event hours. The Commerce Park branch features a bounce house from Adams Family Jumpers, face painting by K & M French Face Painting, and music from DJ Dithcy. Raffles and giveaways are open to participants at every location.