The Royal City Kids Fair is likely to become an annual event given the success of its first fair.

Michael van Lierop, president of Old Yale Sales and Marketing, said the event surpassed everyone's expectations.

"It was awesome. We had 3,000 people come through," he said. "We were totally overwhelmed - in a good way. Our exhibitors were tickled pink."

In addition to more than 50 exhibitors, the Jan. 21 event included bouncy castles, arts and crafts and children's activities. One of the highlights were two performances by kids' favourites Bobs and LoLo.

"It was great energy. Lots of people, lots of happy kids. It exceeded our expectations in a big way," van Lierop said. "With the response, I think we'd be fools not to repeat."

Fraser River Discovery Centre was thrilled to take part in the Royal City Kids Fair.

"Although the number of visitors to the fair was overwhelming at times, the Fraser River Discovery Centre is very pleased that the organizers of the Royal City Kids Fair chose our venue to host their inaugural event," said executive director Catherine Ouellet-Martin. "This provided us with a wonderful opportunity to showcase the Discovery Centre, and we hope that families will visit again to explore the centre's family-fun exhibits in a more leisurely fashion."