Here's a look at the international fun in Downtown Houston at the 2011 iFest.
Travel the world in a weekend or two! iFest features 7 entertainment zones filled with music, art and food. Pick a zone and zero in on one culture, or mix and match for a truly International experience!
Silk Road Zone
Location: Upper Sam Houston Park
Your cultural journey begins in China and routes through the countries of the Silk Road. The focal point and cultural heart in this zone is the Chevron Silk Road Living Museum featuring:
Great Wall of China
Walk along this 100-foot-long winding reproduction and see a bunch of info on the history of Chinese dynasties and photography exhibits.
Chinese Silk Exhibit
Learn about the silk production and see real silkworms and their cocoons on display along with various types of silk and demonstrations of hand weaving by Contemporary Handweavers of Houston.
Chinese Calligraphy & Teahouse Exhibits
Check out live demonstrations of calligraphy and have your name written in Chinese! Then sample a range of teas and witness a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in the Chinese Teahouse.
Gateway of India
Wind your way to this famous structure which houses a variety of information on the
history of India and its importance on the Silk Road and includes authentic
Indian arts and crafts with hands-on activities for kids including author
Robert Arnett showcasing his book "Finders Keepers" and illustrator Smita Turakhia helping kids
make a traditional Indian craft to take home.
India Zone
Travel into the India Zone and visit the PEACE-PROGRESS-PROSPERITY booths highlighting India's art, culture, advancements in science & technology, and India's emergence as a major economic power. Brought to you by the local Indian community.
Trojan Horse
Climb into a Trojan Horse representing the ancient city of Troy - this version is made partially from recycled material (keeping it green!). Troy was originally located in Turkey, an important stop along the Silk Road. Fun facts about this country located in our Turkish cultural exhibit, complete with a yurt!
Venetian Bridge and Gondola
End with a stop in Venice. Imagine yourself floating down the Grand Canal while aboard an elaborate gondola, or standing atop a Venetian-style bridge!
The below illustration gives you a snapshot of the exhibits featured in Chevron Living Museum.
This is our largest performance stage where you will see one of the top Chinese acrobatic troupes currently touring in the United Stages, the
Golden Dragon Acrobats, performing the first weekend. The best Indian dancers and dance schools in Houston will then join forces the second weekend for multiple performances of
Bollywood Blast!
This stage returns wi
th an entertaining and educational mixture of local dance troupes, cooking demonstrations and fashion shows reflecting countries of the Silk Road.
Check out our Silk Road recipes that will be demonstrated by H-E-B Cooking Connection.
International Food Court / Budweiser International Beer Garden
And let's not forget about the eating/drinking, or shopping for that matter! Enjoy great exotic tastes at the International Food Court and a great beer selection at the Budweiser International Beer Garden.
iFest Wine Bar
Enjoy delicious wines at the iFest Wine Bar presented by Yao's!
Silk Road Market
Then bring your wallet to the Silk Road Market with its fine art and high quality imports from China, including artisans straight from Beijing, and other countries of the Silk Road.
Fadi's Caravan Tent
This area provides an intimate listening space showcasing music of the Silk Road cultures featured on the
Fadi's Caravan Stage.
Kids Zone
Location: Little Tranquility Park
The Kids Zone provides a fun, educational wonderland that means non-stop
entertainment for children of all ages.
Features performances by local Indian and Chinese dance troupes, kung fu demonstrations, Ballet Folklorico and Irish dance.
Each Sunday from 12:30-1:30pm, this stage will present Religions of the Silk Road performances focusing on teachings of compassion and tolerance.
Kids Creative Corner
We've got a bunch of cool stuff (and free!) for kids to do in our Kids Creative Corner. From making kites and pinatas, to beaded jewelry to creating a mural made out of lids. Lots to do!
We've also got other fun things to do...
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Petting zoo
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Pony rides
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Inflatable games
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Rides
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Miniature golf course
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Free arts and crafts
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Mad science exhibit
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Balloon artists
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Face painting
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Fun festival food
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