During the Houston International Festival, we sponsor Crockett Elementary School in the Children's parade, which is part of the Opening Ceremonies of the Festival. The Festival highlights a country with emphasis on their arts, music and food. The Festival is held at Reliant Arena during two weekends in April.

Each year, the students at Crockett Elementary have a chance to learn about Scotland, it's culture and tradition from real Scots. Shown here are our students from Crockett in their kilts at the school, and below, they are on the stage at this year's Children's Parade.

The 2004 Festival marked the first time the event was held at Reliant Arena after having been held in downtown Houston in previous years. Below are the stuents from Crockett Elementary School shown at the school in their kilts, and then onstage at Reliant arena.

At the 2003 Festival, Mayor Lee Brown addressed the children on Children's Day and his remarks highlighted the theme of the 2003 Festival, to keep Houston clean and beautiful. They are shown below.

Each year, the students at Crockett Elementary have a chance to learn about Scotland, it's culture and tradition from real Scots. Shown below is "Piper" Al Campbell and Bita Kakebeeke as they inform the students about Scotland and Scottish culture at their school prior to the day of the parade. Mrs. Kakebeeke also makes Scottish shortbread cookies for the students. If you'd like a real treat, click   HERE  for her recipe.

In 2003, about 13,000 children attended Children's Day at the International Festival and either participated in or watched the Children's Parade. In the photo to the left, you can see part of the crowd in attendance. Michael Treviņo, Chairman of the Board of the International Festival introduced each of the schools and countries with a few words or anecdotes about each country. The students at Crockett Elementary got brand new outfits for the event this year and are shown below wearing them for the first time. The girls are shown on the left and all of the Crockett children are shown on the right.

Shown below are Carol Mills and Bita Kakebeeke promoting the Houston/Grampian Association as part of the Sister Cities Houston booth.