While it is almost as cold in New Orleans for this year’s Mardi Gras celebration, three of the greatest Cajun/Zydeco bands in the country are on their way to Cranston’s Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet for the Annual Mardi Gras Ball.

This Saturday, February 28, from 7 p.m. until midnight, the historic ballroom will be the hottest place in the state as Grammy winners Beausoliel with Michael Doucet, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys and Corey Lidet and his Zydeco Band take the stage for one foot-stompin’ evening.

Chuck Wentworth is the man who brings the best music to ever come out of New Orleans into our backyard in addition to the Rhythm and Roots Festival held every Labor Day weekend at Ninigret Park.

The event at Rhodes is a never-miss stop for me. While hundreds of aficionados fill the dance floor, I find my seat in the balcony and watch and listen to some of the happiest music you will ever hear.

Five hours of music is enhanced with a colorful costume parade, where individuals, duos and groups vie for the $250 prize for best costume.

Good news for Chili Brothers fans. The popular Cajun/Creole caterer is back with their patented jambalaya and other specialties.

Tickets are $40 at the door. As of this writing only a few tables of ten were available for $325. Let the Good Times roll!