Kid-Friendly Things to Do at the Gem Show
Dig for real gems in the treasure dig, scoop your own mix at the gem chip bar, and take home a bucket of discoveries — eight themes, including the brand-new 3D Minis bucket.
Is the gem show good for kids?
Yes — the Expo is built for families, with hands-on activities and free admission for all ages. In Erie, kids can dig, scoop and take home real treasure.
Who is Gus the Geode?
Gus the Geode is the Expo's friendly mascot — a cheerful character who appears online to welcome young explorers and spark curiosity about the wonders beneath the Earth's surface.
What is the Treasure Dig?
Sift the sand and keep what you find — real gems, fossils and tumbled stones for kids and grown-ups alike.
What is the Gem Chip Bar?
Scoop your own mix of polished gemstone chips by the bag — pick your colors and build your blend.
What are the take-home treasure buckets?
To-go buckets packed with sand, treasures and gems — dig at home or gift one for the holidays. Eight themes, including the NEW 3D Minis bucket.
Can I shop for holiday gifts at the show?
Holiday gem buckets, Rocks Box, handcrafted jewelry, fossils and one-of-a-kind finds — beat the season rush with gifts nobody else will have.
What themes do the take-home treasure buckets come in?
Halloween, Birthday, Christmas, Fossils, Polished, Rough, Geode, NEW · 3D Minis. Every bucket is packed with sand, treasures and gems to dig through at home — or to give as a gift.
When is the show?
October 30 – November 1, 2026 at the Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center, Erie, PA. Free admission, no tickets required.