From Bayou Bars to the Big Stage: West Baton Rouge Prepares an Unforgettable Homecoming for ‘American Idol’ Finalist John Foster
The small towns of West Baton Rouge Parish are about to throw a celebration that’s been two decades in the making — a hometown hero’s welcome for American Idol Season 23 finalist, John Foster.
At just 18 years old, Foster has gone from serenading crowds at local bars, festivals, and church gatherings to capturing the hearts of a national audience. And now, his community is determined to return the love — in a big way.
“We’re all in the room together, doing what we can, putting all of our minds together,” said Parish President Jason Manola. “Our goal is to make this the most special day of John Foster’s life.”
With a projected crowd of more than 5,000 — nearly the full population of Addis (7,532) — the celebration is set to be one of the largest and most heartfelt events the parish has ever seen. It kicks off with a homecoming parade in Addis and rolls into a concert in Plaquemine. Over 12 government agencies, from local police to Louisiana’s Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, are rallying to make it happen.
“This is a moment for all of us,” Manola said. “America’s finally getting to see the John we’ve known for 20 years — the kid with the voice, the heart, and the soul.”
For those who grew up with John Foster, his national fame doesn’t overshadow the ordinary, funny, and tender memories of their shared childhood.
Dimaria Christophe, 19, recalls taking nearly every class with Foster since grade school. But one memory from calculus still makes her laugh.
“There was this kid who carried slime to class — like a stress toy,” she said. “Somehow, it ended up in John’s hair. He was so stressed out, and we were all trying to get it out without making it worse. It stuck way more than we thought it would.”
Slime mishaps aside, Foster was more than just a model student — he graduated co-valedictorian of Brusly High School with Emrie LeBlanc and began his college journey as a freshman at LSU.
From Show Cattle to Showbiz
Colton Sarradet, one of Foster’s lifelong friends, traveled to Hollywood to cheer him on as he advanced into Idol’s Top 3. Their friendship goes way back — not just to childhood, but to raising and showing cattle together.
“To watch him sing at bars and with friends, and now to see him on national TV… it’s surreal,” Sarradet said. “His voice is a gift from God.”
But it’s not just Foster’s talent that wins people over — it’s who he is.
“You won’t find another like him,” Sarradet added. “He’s brilliant, humble, and he’s got the best heart.”
Idol-Worthy Homecoming Hits National TV
The hometown festivities will be featured during American Idol’s grand finale, airing Sunday, May 18 at 7 p.m. on ABC.
But the real celebration begins Wednesday, May 14.
At 5 p.m., the streets of Addis will come alive with a full-blown parade along First Street. Foster will then make a dramatic Louisiana-style entrance — traveling by boat from the Bayou Road landing to the Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park at 57845 Foundry St.
There, under the setting sun, he’ll perform a free hometown concert starting around 7:30 p.m. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with two checkpoints for entry: one at the Foundry Street entrance, and another from the locks side.
