They Called Him a Rising Star on American Idol—Now John Foster’s Returning to Prove Why at the 2025 Acadian Festival. ML
Homegrown country star John Foster is making his long-awaited return to the local stage — and he’s doing it with heart, hometown pride, and a brand-new single that marks a turning point in his career.
The American Idol runner-up, who won over millions with his soulful voice and small-town charm, will headline the 57th Annual Acadian Festival on Friday night in Plaquemine. For Foster, it’s not just another concert — it’s a homecoming.
“This one’s special,” Foster shared with Unfiltered with Kiran. “It’s my first show on my own side of the river since my Idol homecoming, and it’s the first time I’ll perform my new single live. That means a lot.”
The single — his first new release in a year — represents a fresh chapter for the Louisiana native. “It’s been a while since I’ve shared new music, so it feels refreshing,” he said. “This song is my first real step after Idol — it’s my chance to show fans who I am now.”
Since leaving Idol, Foster’s world has changed dramatically. His fanbase has exploded, his social media following has multiplied, and his music has reached audiences far beyond Louisiana. “The platform Idol gave me is incredible,” he said. “Between last October and now, my fans have grown by hundreds of thousands. I’m just grateful to keep sharing music with them.”
The new single, which Foster describes as “a honky-tonk-meets-modern-country jam,” offers something fans haven’t heard from him before. “It’s upbeat and fun but still keeps that traditional country rhythm that I love,” he said. “I hope it reminds people that real country storytelling never goes out of style.”
For Foster, Friday’s show is both a debut and a declaration. “This is just another step toward the life-long career I’ve dreamed of,” he said. “It’s my way of saying, ‘I’m still here — and I’m not going anywhere.’”
The 57th Annual Acadian Festival kicks off Friday at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park. Gates open at 4 p.m., with The Lauren Lee Band opening at 7 p.m. and Foster taking the stage at 9 p.m.
Tickets for the concert are $26 at the gate (credit cards accepted). Online sales have ended. Festival entry for non-concert guests aged 10 and up costs just $5.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy family favorites like the Cornhole Tournament, Beauty Pageant, Sunday Parade, and all-you-can-ride carnival bracelets.
With his voice, his story, and his undeniable charm, John Foster’s Plaquemine homecoming promises to be a moment fans won’t forget — a night where local pride meets country soul.
