Laughter filled the New Rochelle Public Library Saturday, as moms and dads helped their children create a present for a loved one.

The annual Valentine's Day Workshop, was held in library's Meeting Room, which was a vision of red and pink. The event was sponsored by the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District.

The workshop attracted children of all ages on a chilly February afternoon. Once inside, however, the romantic holiday cheer made the climate unmistakably warmer.

By 1:30 p.m.—halfway into the event—a crowd of parents and children filled the room, with others on line outside waiting for a chance to get a seat at the worktable.

“My dad takes me here every year to make valentines for our family,” said Micahia Simpkins, 3, of New Rochelle. “This year I'm making a valentine for my grandpa because he's at home sick.”

The Valentine's Day Workshop is a yearly tradition for Angelica Pena of New Rochelle and her children, Jennifer, 5, and Marjuri, 12.

“They enjoy making valentines for their friends and family,” Pena said. “The staff is always so kind. It's a great family experience.”

Kids ranging in age from 3 to 11 decorated colorful cut-outs of lady bugs, bumblebees, puppies and kittens with glitter, lace and ribbon.

Creativity flowed as the children concentrated on making their valentines. Each gift was both unique and special to the individual.

Most of the kids were very eager to show off their valentine to each other. A game of “show and tell” began at one table. Each of the children took turns explaining who their valentine was for and why.

Richard Cortez, 8, made a bumblebee for his sister, Karina Cortez, 16.

When asked why he decided on a bumblebee, Richard Cortez said he asked her which animal she wanted.

“She said the bumblebee, so I want to make her happy,” he said.