The 2014 Irish Network USA National Conference will be a unique opportunity for our members, friends and supporters from across the USA to join together and learn from each other as we continue to grow as the only nationwide organization working to connect Irish, Irish-Americans and ‘friends’ of Ireland through business, arts, sport and of course, fun.

Following what will surely be a spirited welcome reception at BD Reilly’s on Thursday, 11 September, this year’s conference will officially open at 9:00am on Friday September 12th.  On the first day, we look forward to

hearing from Ambassador Anne Anderson and welcoming several guests from both Ireland and Northern Ireland who will give attendees an inside look at continued efforts to drive business between Ireland and the United States.  After a full day of panels, speakers and discussions, attendees can enjoy a relaxing three hour cruise aboard the M.V. Pride on Town Lake with music by local singer and harpist Kristen Gibbs.

On Saturday, Austin’s own Celtic Cowboys will host a special Gaelic exhibition game at the Onion Creek Facility.  We expect players from across the USA to line up against the Cowboys in a showcase of GAA skills unlike any other seen before on this side of the Atlantic.

Saturday afternoon will give us an opportunity to rest the bumps and bruises that we’ll take with us off the pitch as we enjoy our first ever mini Irish film festival at the famous Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, which will feature two short films followed by a Q&A with those closely associated with the production and will give us the opportunity to celebrate Ireland’s growing film industry.

The weekend will close on Sunday, 14 September, but not before attendees are treated to an authentic BBQ brunch on the grounds of the University of Texas at Austin.

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