Beloved downtown park Discovery Green marks a milestone birthday this year and is inviting the city to celebrate. The cherished park located across from the George R. Brown Convention Center is turning 15.
So, naturally, its marking the occasion by throwing an oh-so-Houston celebration: a quinceañera, the traditional party that marks a Latina girl's transition from childhood to womanhood.
The big bash is on Sunday May 7 from noon to 5 pm, and features cultural performances such as the University of Houston Mariachi Pumas, a dog costume contest, stilt walkers, ice carvings, a free yoga class, and more.
What's a more Houston 15th bash than a quinceañera?Photo courtesy of Discovery Green
In a nod to Houston's diversity, performances include Colombian Folkoric Ballet, Sonkiss’d Dance Concepts, Nueva Luna Ballet Folklorico, Cirque Olympus, Reverend Butter, Naach Houston Bollywood Dance Theatre, Han Narea and Houston K-Pop.
A special, one-time art installation called Canopy by Pneuhaus will also be on view. The work is a grove of illuminated tree-like sculptures that transform and expand with energy provided by bike-driven generators.
The festivities are free of charge, although guests wishing to compete in the dog costume contest must register here. The first-place prize is $150, with $100 for second place and $50 for third.
As locals know, the 12-acre park opened in 2008, and quickly became a must-visit destination for Houstonians and out-of-town visitors.
With year-round programming that includes everything from fitness classes to its popular holiday ice skating rink to art installations and performances, Discovery Green is an all-ages space that brings together members of the Houston community.
-----
The Discovery Green 15th-anniversary quinceañera runs from noon to 5 pm Sunday, May 7 at Discovery Green (1500 McKinney St.). For more information, visit the official event site.
