THE 3rd Yorkshire Cajun & Zydeco Festival will be held at the Milton Rooms, Malton, from March 14 to 16.

“Our festival is fast establishing itself in the calendar for enthusiasts from all over Britain and Europe,” says organiser John Adamson.

“It’s also introducing this fabulous Louisiana music, dance and entire culture to a public who may otherwise not come across one of the best-kept secrets of the music and dance world.

“After two highly successful festivals, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better still with great bands, dance and music workshops and Cajun food.”

A new feature for 2014 will be the chance to experience an authentic Louisiana Mardi Gras celebration when the Milton Rooms are transformed on March 16 with banners, bunting and beads.

“Festival-goers will be encouraged to dress up and wear costumes and masks,” says John.

The live music line-up is complete already. “Visiting us from Europe will be the fabulous young Dutch band Front Row Zydeco, while Phil Underwood will bring his band Colin And The Crawfish back to Yorkshire after their brilliant performance last year,” says John.

“British Cajun and Zydeco star Gavin Lewery will make his festival debut with two of his bands, Little Easy and Chanky Chank; our very own local band The Wandering Aces will be returning again, and the highly visual and entertaining Rough Chowder will perform at our special Mardi Gras Sunday.”

John is chuffed about one signing in particular. “In something of a scoop, making their UK festival debut, we have a brand new Cajun band from Scotland, Bluebell Cajun Dance Band,” he reveals.

“And once again, a ‘star’ of the festival will be the Milton Rooms building itself, with its great sprung dance floor and plenty of room for dancers and those who like to sit and watch the bands and the dancing.”

Full details of bands and the festival programme can be found at yorkshirecajun.com or by phoning 07786 040734.