iFest 2010 Zones - Travel the World in a Weekend!
An international focus on fun!
Travel the world in a weekend! iFest features six entertainment zones featuring music, art and food. So you can pick a zone and zero in on one culture, or mix and match for a truly international experience!
Visit:
- Caribbean Zone >>
- African Zone>>
- Target Kids Zone >>
- Latin Zone >>
- International Zone >>
- Louisiana Zone >>
Caribbean Zone
The Magic of our Spotlighted Country
No time for a quick trip? No problem. Experience the sights, smells and sounds in the Caribbean Zone. Enjoy dazzling performances, breathtaking art, informative demonstrations and exhibits plus a fiesta of tasty treats. Don't miss these special attractions:
- The rich history and cultural influences of the Caribbean will come alive in this zone
- Upper Sam Houston Park will transform into the cultural heart of the festival in the Chevron Caribbean Living Museum
- Caribbean music and dance will be showcased on Center Stage, built over the Reflection Pool in front of Houston's City Hall.
Center Stage
McGonigel's Mucky Duck Irish Pub
Check out the schedule of performances
"It's more fun to eat in a saloon than drink in a restaurant"
-Butch McGuire
"A day without laughter is a day wasted"
-Charlie Chaplin
"I spent 90% of my money on women and drinks. The rest I wasted."
-George Best
"Those who drink to forget, please pay in advance"
-Sign at the Hibernian Bar, Cork City
“St. Patrick... one of the few saints whose feast day presents the opportunity to get determinedly whacked and make a fool of oneself all under the guise of acting Irish.”
-Charles M. Madigan
Gypsy Market
The Gypsy Market is a first choice, handcraft market. It is reserved for premium arts and crafts work with the craftsman in attendance to represent his/her work. A favorite among Houston crowds.
Budweiser International Beer Garden
H-E-B Cultural Stage
This stage represents the cultural heart of this year's Irish theme. From harps, bagpipes and story-telling barbs to Irish step-dance lessons, cooking demonstrations and literary readings, this stage is jam-packed with fun. Check out the schedule
International Market
A wonderful expression of imports and cultures from around the world. Explore the finest selection of international treasures.
International Food Court
Be sure and come to iFest with your appetite. The international food court around City Hall offers yummy cuisine from around the world!
Fine Arts Avenue
The Houston International Festival Fine Arts Avenue is a city-block gallery exclusively reserved for the display and sale of the creme de la creme works of artists from across the globe. The Fine Arts Avenue is a show within a show located at the heart of iFest approximately 200 artists each weekend. Meet the artists and view original, one-of-a-kind works of art.
Irish Food Court
Indulge in yummy cuisines from Houston's top local Irish restaurants
Ireland Today
Literary Ireland
At this exhibit you'll learn about major Irish literary figures, the history of the Gaelic language and watch films about Irish history and literature. Listening stations provide the opportunity to hear the work of Irish authors and samples of the very interesting Gaelic language.
Don't miss an impressive panel of authors and scholars presenting literature readings and discussions from 1:00-5:00pm. Check out the schedule>>
Chevron Ireland Living Museum
The Chevron Ireland Living Museum in Upper Sam Houston Park is the focal point for the Ireland Zone and the cultural heart of this year's festival spotlighting Ireland. From the entrance, visitors will wind through Upper Sam Houston Park following a display of exhibits that illustrate the history and culture of Ireland. You'll see many interesting exhibits and cultural performances all paying tribute to the Irish heritage and honoring the ongoig ancestral conection between Ireland and the Irish in America. Each festival day will kick-off witha marching bagpipes band parade from the Gaelic Stage to Center Stage at City Hall.
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention beyond Munster ever since. Now that might have something to do with the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of the Tower. Kiss it and you’ll never again be lost for words. No need to travel around the world since iFest will recreate a reproduction of the top of the legendary Blarney Castle in Sam Houston Park. Stairs leading up to the walkway surrounding the parapet bring visitors to a reproduction of the Blarney Stone, which legend has it, bestows the gift of eloquence on those who kiss the stone. The interior of the castle will feature a photography exhibit on Ireland. You won't want to miss this incredible exhibit and your chance to kiss the Blarney Stone!The Stone of Eloquence
For over 200 years, world statesmen, literary giants, and legends of the silver screen have joined the millions of pilgrims climbing the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence. Its powers are unquestioned but its story still creates debate.
Some say it was Jacob’s Pillow, brought to Ireland by the prophet Jeremiah. Here it became the Lia Fail or ‘Fatal Stone’, used as an oracular throne of Irish kings – a kind of Harry Potter-like ‘sorting hat’ for kings. It was also said to be the deathbed pillow of St Columba on the island of Iona. Legend says it was then removed to mainland Scotland, where it served as the prophetic power of royal succession, the Stone of Destiny.
When Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, sent five thousand men to support Robert the Bruce in his defeat of the English at Bannockburn in 1314, a portion of the historic Stone was given by the Scots in gratitude – and returned to Ireland.
Others say it may be a stone brought back to Ireland from the Crusades – the ‘Stone of Ezel’ behind which David hid on Jonathan’s advice when he fled from his enemy, Saul. A few claim it was the stone that gushed water when struck by Moses.
Whatever the truth of its origin, it is believed a witch saved from drowning revealed its power to the MacCarthys.
Once upon a time, visitors had to be held by the ankles and lowered head first over the battlements. At iFest we are rather more cautious of the safety of our visitors. The Stone itself will be set in the wall below the battlements. To kiss it, one has to lean backwards (holding on to an iron railing) from the parapet walk. The prize is a real one as once kissed the stone bestows the gift of eloquence.
Ireland Photography Exhibit
Amazing photographs portraying the beauty of Ireland located inside the Blarney Castle.
Blarney Pub and Gaelic Stage
Authentic Irish pub pouring Ireland's national beer - Guinness Stout. This pub overlooks the Gaelic Stage which will feature literary and theatrical performances, as well as traditional Irish music and dance. See the schedule of performances>>Golden Age of Christianity Exhibit
Ireland has long been a cherished land for many Americans whose cultural and religious landscape has been shaped by Irish immigrants and their traditions.The golden age of Christian saints and scholars in Ireland—about the fifth to the ninth centuries—is a treasure trove of theological, artistic and literary material to engage anyone. The facade of the front of this tented exhibit simulates Irish chuch architecture and will provide interesting information about the history of Christianity in Ireland.
Flight of the Earls
On the 14th September 1607, a group of Ireland’s noble elite left from Donegal to find refuge in Europe and seek assistance for their cause in Ireland. They would never return. This episode in Irish history would become known as ‘Imeacht na nIarlai’ / the Flight of the Earls. It marked the end of an ancient Irish order that had survived over 1000 years and made way for the Plantation of Ulster. Among those who left were Hugh O’Neill, Earl of Tyrone, Rory O’Donnell, Earl of Tyrconnell, The Maguires of Fermanagh, and dozens of elite soldiers and scholars. This ‘Flight’ made way for events such as the Plantation of Ulster. It was also a key event in the establishment of the Irish Diaspora around the world. Descendants of those who took part in the event established themselves as leading lights in many different fields of activity in their adopted countries and they do so to this day. This interesting exhibit presents informatio about the end of the old Gaelic era.Presenting Sponsors
African/Caribbean Market
A full city block overflowing with goods from all over Africa. This market is full of splendid cultural African and Caribbean handicrafts and artwork including intricate wood carvings, oils, clothing, drums and so much more!
Chron.com Houston Stage
This popular stage features the best local musicians around. Located on the backside of CIty Hall, this stage is a great place for festival-goers to camp out for a few hours, enjoy the shade and a cold one while listening to a variety of music genres. This stage will feature a stylistically diverse mix of the top local and regional bands, including Irish rockers Blaggards, the Killdares and Needfire; honky-tonker James Hand; gospel shouters the Original Soul Invaders; polka stompers Mark Halata & Texavia; and Zydeco party hounds Big Red & the Playmakers and the Zydeco Dots. Check out the schedule
GMC Live Ice Sculpture Show
You won't want to miss the Reverend Butter showing off his unique talent of ice sculpting incredible detailed shapes using a chainsaw, all choreographed to the groovy spinning tunes of a dj. An amazing show to see!
Check out this Fox 26 video of the Reverend at work!
Africans in Houston
Houston is home to many communities from African nations. Stop by and learn about different African cultures living in Houston including Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, South Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Liberia and others.
Ethiopian Cutlural Display & Photo Exhibit
Presenting Sponsors
TARGET KIDS ZONE
Target International Kids Stage
This stage hosts performances by local dance troupes representing Houston's international community as well as musical and dance performances by talented young people representing the local Irish community. Check out the schedule
Around the World In Nine Holes Miniature Golf
Tee off at the Eiffel Tower, cruise along Route 66, visit the Egyptian Pyramids, plus see 6 other amazing world landmarks on this free one-of-a-kind mini golf course!
Pony Rides
Hay! Come on down to the farm for a gentle stroll. These trots for tots offer the ideal introduction to interacting with our four-legged equine friends.
Petting Zoo
Touch and feed many domestic and exotic animals. Fun for the entire family!
Inflatable Games, Rides & Fun Activities Radio Disney Magical Market Arts, crafts, music and magical fun for kids of all ages.
Mad Science Exhibit
Fun for kids - play "mad" scientist at our mad science lab and have fun learning about science
Balloon Artists and Face Painters
The kids will love watching balloon artists create their favorite characters.. From simple and cute to elaborate and incredible, our face painters will transform you children into walking works of art.
Fun Festival Food
Houston Dynamo
Nasa Exhibit
Check out super cool space stuff and meet real life astronauts.
Presenting Sponsors
You won't want to miss the return of the Texas Stage or the excitement of the new and improved Latin Stage.Top attractions in the Latin Zone include:
Texas Stage
The Texas Stage returns to Library Plaza, thanks to a generous grant from the Houston Endowment. The programming on this stage recreates the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival's salute to Texas music, with headliners Marcia Ball, CJ Chenier, Little oe Y la Familia and Los Tres Reyes de Accordiones with Flaco Jimenez, Joel Guzman and Jaime deAnda. The lineup represents the state's unique country, blues, gospel, Hispanic and Cajun heritage. Check out the schedule>>
Latin Stage
This stage alternates set times in Library Plaza with the Texas Stage, and features a culturally diverse mix of Flamenco, Mariachi, Balllet Folklorico, Conjunto, Salsa and Spanish Celtic music. Check out the schedule
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| Mariachi Los Arrieros | Mark Towns | Lucia y Valdemarr |
iFest Beer Garden
Latin Market
Taco Cabana Cantina
Houston's popular restaurant will be serving up yummy tex-mex favorites and tasty margaritas
Presenting Sponsors
Entertainment that spans the Globe If you love music, this is the place for you. With international superstars like Los Lobos, Hugh Masekela, the Ohio Players, the Wailing Souls and more, the Bud Light World Music Stage brings you a line-up that's. . .well, world-class.
Featured attractions in this zone are:
Bud Light World Music Stage
THE major music stage of iFest, this stage will feature headliners Ohio Players, Los Lobos, Hugh Masekela, Mavis Staples and many, many more! Check out the schedule
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iFest Pub
Offers specialty beers from around the world
International Food Court
Try an exotic international dish!
Sister Cities World's Fare
Did you know that Houston has 17 sister city relationships all over the world including Abu Dhabi, Baku, Istanbul, Nice, Taipei and Perth? The World's Fare is comprised of a wine tent and a performance stage which highlights the cultures of our sister cities. Past performers have included local artists and international musicians and dancers from Australia and Azerbaijan.
Sister Cities International Wine Cafe
Sit down, relax and enjoy delicious wines from around the world
Sister Cities Three Oaks Lounge Area
Take a break and cool down in this beautiful shady area of historic Sam Houston Park
Presenting Sponsors
Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!
This lively, colorful zone salutes the music, food, drink and heritage of our neighboring state. Featured attractions include:
Louisiana Stage
Dance to the world's best Cajun and Zydecobands. Step out to New Orleans secon-line funk. Groove to the Gulf Coast blues. Back by popular demand, this is one of hte festival's most popular destinations. Check out the schedule>>
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Bayou Art Market
An eclectic mix of arts and crafts positioned under the beautiful oak trees of Houston
Cajun Food Favorites
Hurricane Hut
Serving the favorite drink of Bourbon Street!
Take a quick trip to paradise in this zone full of the sights, smells and tastes of Jamaica ,Ya Mon!
Port Royal Exhibit and Pirate Ship
limb aboard a 20' tall pirate ship docked in Sam Houston Park and learn about the famous pirate haven, Port Royal. Don't miss the swashbuckling swordplay and dynamic duels of our renegade pirates.
Bob Marley & Rastafari Exhibit
Learn the origins of the Rastafari movement and how the world's most famous Jamaican helped spread the faith throughout the world
Discover Jamaica
Jamaican Cuisine
Houston's favorite Jamaican chefs offer authentic cuisine
Presenting Sponsor
