FARMINGTON — The 32nd annual Children’s Festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, in Olsen Student Center at the University of Maine at Farmington.

Several new activities are being added, including many with a Valentine’s Day theme, Renee Blanchet, executive director of the Franklin County Children’s Task Force which sponsors the event, said.

A dance troupe, the Q-Ts, led by Farmington Postmaster Sue Jones will perform along with a magician, Mr. Magic, she said.

Pine Tree Cellular will help children make valentines and demonstrate educational games available on a tablet.

The Koviashuvik Local Living School in Temple will demonstrate making string from bark, she said.

Western Maine Play Museum of Wilton plans to help children make forts out of cardboard boxes.

Pin the heart on Cupid will be offered by Franklin Somerset Federal Credit Union.

A giant tooth and floss from Community Dental, Baxter the library cat and McGruff the Crime Dog will be there, she said. Maine Maple Taffy, arts and crafts and other activities are planned.

With 30-plus years of hosting the February festival for children and families, the Children’s Task Force has become well organized, she said. Melissa Cousins of the Task Force keeps it running smoothly, she said.

They are beginning to see individuals stepping up to help sponsor the event so activities can remain free.

There is a core group of area businesses and people they can rely on to help. Also, people who brought their children to the festival are coming back with their grandchildren, she said. They also help sponsor the festival.

abryant@sunmediagroup.net