I-Fest: A blending of cultures at the Houston International Festival 2009

Dianna Shaw

The Signal Staff

The Houston International Festival 2009 was a delightful display of the blending of many cultures. It is a good way to experience an array of foods, entertainment and ways of life from around the globe.

Roaming the fair, one could scarcely tell that they were standing on an often-busy street of a downtown metropolis. Everywhere one looked was a representation of different cultures; there was the African/ Caribbean Zone, the Jamaica Zone and the Ireland Zone, to mention a few.

“I have loved every minutes of watching my culture demonstrated,” said James O’Connor, festival attendee. “I am a proud Irishman and this presentation is lovely. My personal favorites would have to be the line dancers and the bagpipes; just wonderful entertainment. The Jameson Irish Whiskey is not bad either.”

The focus country this year was Ireland, and Celtic Menagerie, Cass Irish Dancers and Bayou City Pipes and Drums entertained audiences. One could visit McGonigel’s Mucky Duck Pub & Stage and enjoy the fine cuisine of the Irish.

“The first hundred dollars always goes so fast,” said college student Randy Jackson, while standing at an ATM.  “I have to get more money, all I want to do is eat, eat and eat. The food is marvelous: sausage, potatoes and funnel cakes. I can’t stand it!”

Whether watching exhibitionists demonstrate calligraphy, blacksmithing or participating in the interactive displays, visitors could learn about the way other societies interact. Those in attendance experienced plenty of different accents in people’s language skills and could learn much this day.

Is it well known that coffee originated in Ethiopia? Aster Eyob, a teacher from Sharon Elementary, and Jennet Kassa, a teacher from Knox Jr.. High, established for audiences the Ethiopian Coffee Ritual. The coffee is prepared in a stone bowl over an open fire.  The rich aroma fills the air; it is not the normal coffee smell Americans have come to recognize, but much stronger.

“It is a part of our culture to stop and enjoy the company of one another, while preparing and drinking the coffee,” Eyob said. “It is much like the English who drink tea. I came today to share my culture so others could understand and enjoy it as well.”

Art items from a variety of artistic styles were in view up and down every isle. Laurence Walden, known as the man behind the mask, showed his unique skills in turning old silver utensils and plate ware into beautiful art. He designs jewelry, paintings and sculptures.

“I purchased a ring from Mr. Walden because I have never seen anything like it before,” said teenager, Samantha Rinehart. “I plan on buying more from him at a later date. I think he will be famous for his work one day.”

The diversity of music was another high point of the occasion. The sounds ranged from jazz, reggae, funk, gospel, zydeco, Latin, mariachi and more. One of the favorite entertainers was Big Sam Funky Nation; with their New Orlean flair, they worked the crowd into a frenzy. Another pleasurable band was Los Arrieros mariachi band.

“We came from Mexico to enjoy the fun, music and art,” said Mexican citizen Sabina Delgado. “We are big fans of Los Arrieros; we follow them when we can. We are proud for others to hear their music.”

Local channel KIAH, 39 had a booth to promote their upcoming season of shows and to receive feedback about what viewers think about the line-up. In the booth they hung flags with pictures representing the different TV shows on 39.

Participants stood under the flag of the show they liked best. In Wheel of Fortune style, there was a wheel that contained the programs. The booth representative spun the wheel and if it landed on the show they were standing under they won a T-shirt. Photographer Brain Pfeiffenberger won this particular round.

“I love Stewie,” Pfeiffenberger said while holding-up his prize. “I am having a great time; it is Houston; it is great weather; it is culture at its best. To experience great photography, please visit my Web site www.iphotoweddings.net.”

In the markets one could purchase clothing, musical instruments, art and much, much more. There were carvings of almost every animal one could think of, and woven baskets of all sizes. Jewelry displays were in abundance. Shoppers could purchase anything from cruises to hand rolled cigars.

“The smell of a cigar always reminds me of my grandfather,” Mexican citizen Hulda Rojas said. “He would smoke one every evening while he sat on the porch drinking his iced tea. Good memories, those were good days. He would have enjoyed today.”

One choice booth was Karaoke 4-KIDS, where kids of all ages could sing karaoke for fun, or make a personal CD for $10. They had large crowds all day, as the young ones and not so young ones, entertained crowds.

The I-Fest was filled with adventure and learning. Attendance is definitely something one should consider.