Katy Families can Celebrate 21 Countries in International Festival

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

September 30, 2022

By Natalie Cook Clark

Central Green Park celebrates Katy’s diversity with an International Festival tomorrow. The event will celebrate Katy’s growing diversity and history through a free event full of live music, activities and fun for all.

Music from Congo. Photo credit: Central Green Park

Katy families can enjoy an International Festival tomorrow, Saturday, October 1, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Central Green Park and LaCenterra’s Heritage Square.

“We live in the most culturally diverse county in the nation,” says Yvonne Arceneaux, Willow Fork Drainage District’s Park Director. “Our community is a gorgeous tapestry of ideas, dance, music, technology and life. I wanted to celebrate what makes our community so beautiful.”

Dia dancers. Photo credit: Central Green Park

21 Countries Represented

21 countries will be represented in performances and fun. The goal is to grow the event each year. Countries represented include: Nigeria, Congo, South Africa, Poland, Iraq, England, Iran, Ireland, Scotland, Jamaica, Morocco, Turkey, Venezuela, Spain, Mexico, Columbia, France, Philippines, India, China, and of course the USA.

“The kids can take part in the Highland Games, there will be dance and music from around the world, activity booths, unique art, crafts, face painting and tattoo's to decorate yourself to represent your favorite country,” explains Arceneaux.

Katy’s Central Green Park, developed by Willow Fork Drainage District (WFDD,) is located at the south end of LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. It is a true entertainment destination close to shopping dining, theaters, and libraries. The park provides a multi-purpose venue for many standing weekly events, monthly events, special events, and more.

Everyone participates in a group Indonesian dance at Indonesian Festival. Photo credit: Central Green Park

Arceneaux says that diversity was one of the reasons she chose Katy as her new home 16 years ago. The international Festival will celebrate Katy’s cultural diversity through entertainment and fun for all.

“It’s important to celebrate the wisdom, beauty, and culture of the world,” says Arceneaux.