The Irish-Network New Orleans (IN-NOLA) is set to host a night of traditional music, dance and cuisine this Thursday at Gallier Hall for the organization’s official launch party.

The newly formed Irish Network of Louisiana hopes to promote local Irish culture and strengthen connections between locals in the Irish-American community.

Irish Ambassador Michael Collins will be joined by other representatives from other Irish Network chapters around the U.S.

The Gala event will feature Irish music sessions, bagpipers, local band Rites of Passage, Irish Dancers from three local schools, an open bar and food from local Chefs. The event is being held in Gallier Hall, a building  designed by noted Irish architect, James Gallier Sr, who was born in Co. Louth.
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“We are an organization that respects and values the multiple aspects of modern Irish Identity in today's society.  IN-NOLA is an all-inclusive organization and as such does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability or marital status,” IN-NOLA’s website states.

The organization officially began accepting members on August 25 and already over 300 people have signed up, as well as 45 business members.

"IN-NOLA not only seeks to promote Irish culture and modern Ireland to the greater New Orleans community, it also seeks to promote New Orleans to the vast Irish-American community and to Ireland," the website states.

The event is free for members, people can join online at the groups website here.