The show, targeted to children and great fun for all ages, will benefit the Potsdam Holiday Fund.

Each family or person attending is asked to bring one new, unwrapped toy or gift to donate to the fund, which provides new toys, clothing, boots and food to families and senior citizens in need in Potsdam, Madrid, Hopkinton, Nicholville, Brasher Falls, Chase Mills, Fort Jackson, West Stockholm and Winthrop.

Monetary contributions are also welcome in lieu of a purchased gift.

Peploski's “Miracles, Magic and Mayhem” show will feature 10 to 15 demonstrations, including a free sample of ice cream made by using liquid nitrogen.

Peploski, an associate professor and director of freshman chemistry, first began showcasing his experiments in front of his students more than 20 years ago and gradually began entertaining other on-campus groups.

“I like to see the people that are completely awed by the science -- the fun,” says Peploski. “People are fascinated by reactions that go ‘boom.’ I try to work in as many of those as I can.”

His show is an attraction at family and alumni weekends and at the Clarkson’s open house events.

“It’s a small effort on my part,” he said. “By doing this, my gift is multiplied.”