Life

American Idol sensation gets a parade in Asheville

Caleb Johnson will ride in a parade, appear at the Orange Peel and perform in a concert as part of an American Idol homecoming event Saturday.

By Bill Moss, Published: May 9, 2014

The homecoming is on for American Idol rock sensation Caleb Johnson.

Fans can see the rock'n'roll singer in a parade starting about 12:30 p.m. Saturday on Patton Avenue in downtown Asheville. The police-escorted processional will turn right on Biltmore and stop at the Orange Peel, where the star is scheduled to perform. No tickets remain.
A 7 p.m. performance at the Emerald Lounge at 112 N. Lexington Ave. is free and will let in fans on a first-come, first served basis. While other homecomings have shown outdoor venues in the hometowns of American Idol finalists, construction at City Hall and Pack Square made that impossible in downtown Asheville, Jaime Matthews, of the city of Asheville said.

As winners of the top 3 slots last night, Johnson, Jena Irene Asciutto and Alex Preston will be flown by American Idol on a private jet to their hometowns for a homecoming event and concert, parts of which will be shown on next week's American Idol show. Johnson, an Erwin High School graduate, will compete next week for a final two spot. The last two will perform for the American Idol title May 20-21 in Hollywood.