38th Annual Houston International Festival Transforms Downtown Houston Into An Irish Paradise 

THE 38^TH ANNUAL HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL TRANSFORMS DOWNTOWN HOUSTON INTO AN IRISH PARADISE

WHAT:            The 2009 Houston International Festival will bring the sights and sounds of Ireland to downtown Houston for two weekends in April. The 38^th annual event will feature diverse and celebrated music and dance groups from around the world, and international food and markets in multiple cultural zones including the Ireland Zone, International Zone, Target Kids Zone, Louisiana Zone and African/Caribbean Zone. 

The Ireland Zone, the spotlight of this year’s event, will provide a cultural journey of Ireland with traditional food, music, entertainment and exhibits. The area will include a reproduction of an Irish crannog, an ancient settlement / artificial island most often from prehistoric or medieval times built for fortification; a replica of the top of the legendary Blarney Castle, a world landmark built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains; and an authentic Irish Pub. Additionally, Center Stage located at City Hall will showcase the song and dance of Ireland. 

WHEN:            Weekends April 18-19 and April 25-26, 2009

(Sat 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. ; Sun 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.)                                                         

iFest Free Preview Day April 17, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

WHERE:         Downtown Houston – Including City Hall, Upper and Lower Tranquility Park, Bagby Street and Upper and Lower Sam Houston Parks

TICKETS:       Ticket details to come

Transportation: Call METROLine 713-635-4000 for information on routes and schedules and all METRO services.

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INFO:              Call the Houston International Festival office at 713.654.8808 or visit the Festival Web site at www.ifest.org.

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