From American Idol to Pasadena, Louisiana’s Newest Star Takes Center Stage at the Rose Parade. ML
- “American Idol” runner-up John Foster will perform on Louisiana’s 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade float.
- The float, themed “Gulf to Gumbo,” highlights the teamwork involved in creating the state’s iconic dish.
- Louisiana’s participation in the parade is a key tourism strategy, generating significant media value.
- The state has won an award for its float entry in every year of its participation.
Louisiana’s newest “American Idol” star John Foster will be the featured performer on the state’s 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade float in Pasadena, Calif.
Foster, 19, of Addis, finished second during last spring’s “American Idol” competition, earning praise from judges and winning fans from around the world with his country music performances that later vaulted him to an appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.
Foster will next perform in Louisiana on Oct. 24 in his “Homecoming Concert” during the International Acadian Festival at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park.
“He really captured the hearts of fans and represents Louisiana in all of the best ways,” Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said in an interview with USA Today Network. “He’ll be a great headliner for our float.”
Louisiana’s fifth straight Tournament of Roses float “Gulf to Gumbo” recognizes all those who contribute to the state’s iconic dish. The float features a shrimp boat, fresh Louisiana seafood and a larger-than-life chef bringing it all together.Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
It fits the New Year’s Day parade theme of “The Magic in Teamwork.”
“From the shrimpers to the chefs, a fresh pot of seafood gumbo is a team effort,” Nungesser said. “The people of Louisiana are what make our state so special, and that goes beyond our delicious food. Hotel staff, tour guides and people you meet on the street create a one-of-a-kind welcoming experience for visitors to Louisiana.”
Nungesser leads the state’s Office of Tourism.
Nungesser said Louisiana’s participation in the 2025 parade resulted in media coverage that reached an advertising value of over $50 million.
“It’s been a great investment for us,” he told USA Today Network. “It generates earned media globally that attracts visitors to our state who want to experience our unique culture and hospitality.”
Louisiana’s previous float entrees have won awards every year.
In 2022, Louisiana’s float won the Wrigley Legacy Award for most outstanding display of floral presentation, float design and entertainment. In 2023 and 2024, the Louisiana float won the Showmanship Award for most outstanding display of showmanship and entertainment. In 2025, Louisiana won the Director’s Award for the most outstanding artistic design and use of floral and non-floral materials.
“Louisiana steals the show each year at the Rose Parade and we’ve taken home an award for every float we’ve entered,” Nungesser said.
