The Fifth Annual Mardi Gras Party sponsored by Goosefoot starts dancing Fat Tuesday.

The celebration will be 6 to 8:30 p.m. on March 5 at Bayview Community Hall. Admission is free and the event is deemed family-friendly.

Ken Pickard and Zydeco Explosion will play new, old and some very old and very authentic Zydeco and Cajun music to get people on their feet, according to a press release.

Coming decked out in a Mardi Gras costume may win participants more than compliments. The costume contest will have prizes for Most Original, Most Comical, Best in Show, Best Couple, Best Child and Best Mask. Beads do not count as a costume but grab some free at the door.

Head next door to the Bayview Cash Store for some New Orleans favorites from the Taproom@Bayview Corner and muffulettas and beignets from Whidbey Doughnuts. Both restaurants will offer drink specials, and wine and beer will be available for sale at the Bayview Hall.

Laissez les bons temps rouler! “Let the good times roll,” is the official motto of Mardi Gras.

Goosefoot is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rural character of Whidbey Island through projects that support the local economy and promote learning and community.

• For more information call 360-321-4246 or see www.goosefoot.org.