International Festival Zones
Silk Road Zone
The centerpiece of this year's iFest will be the Chevron Silk road Living Museum featuring a reproduction of the Great Wall of China, live calligraphy demonstrations, live traditional tea ceremony and hands-on Indian crafts led by children's author Robert Arnett and illustrator Smita Turakhia. Also, climb into a giant replica of the Trojan horse.
In the Chinese Silk Exhibit, learn everything you've ever wanted to know about the process of making silk and even see real silkworms in their cocoons. Members of the Contemporary Handweavers of Houston organization will be there demonstrating their skill.
On the Center Stage of the Silk Road Zone, festival-goers will witness the Golden Dragon Acrobats, one of the top Chinese acrobatic troupes in the nation. The always-entertaining Bollywood Blast! will take place on the same stage.
Kids Zone
Don't be surprised if you find yourself as entertained as the little ones in the Kids Zone located at Tranquility Park. Performances by Ballet Folklorico, Indian and Chinese dance troupes will dazzle the grown-ups while pony rides, miniature golf, balloon art and a petting zoo keep little hands and minds busy. The Children's Museum and NASA will have exhibits available for exploration as well. Each Sunday at 12:30 on the International Kids Stage children can see performances that deliver important life lessons in a light-hearted package.
Latin Zone
This festive zone features a performance stage as well as a huge dance floor outside of the Houston Public Library. Visit the Mercado to shop for authentic Latin and Central American whatnots. Dynamo fan? Meet the players and enter to win giveaways.
International Zone
Get a little bit of everything at the International Zone in lower Sam Houston Park. The stage will welcome bands ranging from reggae to blues to Texas tunes. If you need a break from all the festival excitement, have an adult beverage at the iFest Lounge, a full bar nestled in a shady area of the park.
Louisiana Zone
Upper Tranquility Park will be transformed into the French Quarter at the Louisiana Zone. Sway to the sounds of zydeco music while munching on your favorite Cajun foods. Stop by one of several booths for face painting, juggling, tarot card reading henna tattoos and balloon twisting.
Jamaica Zone
The highlight of the Jamaica Zone is the 40-foot ship complete with pirates and live drummers. Get a taste of Jamaican nightlife from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Jamaican Dancehall led by a reggae DJ.
African/Caribbean Zone
You'll be able to hear the steel drums from the African/Caribbean Zone from blocks away. A host of musical performers and a runway fashion show set this zone apart from the others. The 29-95 Entertainment Stage will welcome rock, blues, reggae and country music artists. Don't leave without shopping for oils, incense, clothing and other gifts at the African-Caribbean Market.
