The New Orleans Musicians' Clinic and NOLA Organ Grinders are hosting their 5th annual Tropical Blood Drive on Sunday, August 19 from 11a-5p at Tipitina's. They're hoping to get 250 pints of blood. On-site services at the event include HIV and Hep C testing, stretching for dancers, mental health services, insurance services, and more. 

Performances from the Original Pinettes Brass Band, Soul Brass Band, and Jeremy Thomas & Blacklight will liven up the festivities. There will also be a silent auction, raffle, and limbo contest. Winners may take home a $1,000 Rouse's gift card. Ten local dance troupes will present a dancer showcase, and more than 100 local businesses have donated to the day's raffle and silent auction. 

This is a tiki-themed event, so don your best luau paraphernalia and contribute to a good cause. Those who give blood at the event will receive a floral lei, event t-shirt, and food and beverages donated by several local restaurants.

Since its inception in 2014, the blood drive has collected 866 pints, translating to roughly 3,000 transfusions for local hospitals.

You can sign up in advance to donate at neworleansmusiciansclinic.org/blooddrive.