On May 12, 2025, during a high-stakes live episode of American Idol, host Ryan Seacrest announced the top three contestants advancing to the season finale. Among the finalists, one familiar name lit up homes across Denton: Breanna Nix.
With over 19 million votes cast during the two-hour show, Nix’s journey from local Denton talent to national sensation is now the pride of her hometown. Nix is officially headed to the American Idol finale, and before she sings for the national title, she’s coming home.
The Star Returns to Denton
Denton is pulling out all the stops to welcome Nix back with a Texas-sized celebration on May 14. The event includes a community parade and a free live concert, both designed to showcase the heart and soul of Denton while cheering on the local star.
“I seriously have no words… I’m just so overwhelmed with gratitude,” Nix wrote on social media. “This has been the most insane, amazing experience of my life. I’ve pushed myself in ways I didn’t even know I could, and to be in the TOP 3 because of YOUR votes?? That blows my mind. Thank you for believing in me. Denton… I’m coming home!!! Let’s GO!!!”
How She Got Here
During her audition, the 25-year-old stay-at-home mom delivered a heartfelt rendition of Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” while her young son, Emerson, dozed off in Carrie’s arms. The touching moment, paired with Breanna’s powerful vocals, won over all three judges — Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan — earning her a golden ticket to Hollywood. Since then, Breanna has become a fan favorite.
Hometown Parade And Concert
The celebration kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with a community parade around the historic Downtown Denton Square. Locals and visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as roads will be barricaded before the event. Expect colorful floats, live music, cheering fans and the city’s unmistakable energy on full display.
Following the parade, Nix will headline a free concert at 7 p.m. in front of the Discover Denton Visitor Center. Fans can bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of music under the open sky. Local food vendors will be on site, making it a true community night of celebration.
This celebration isn’t just for Denton — it’s a moment for the nation to see the heart behind Nix’s story. The event will be featured live during the American Idol finale broadcast on May 18, giving the town its moment in the spotlight.
Denton Businesses Join the Celebration
Local businesses across Denton are getting creative to show their support for Nix with themed specials, discounts and unique promotions leading up to the finale. Here’s a taste of what fans can enjoy:
- Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream – Custom Breanna Nix ice cream flavor and special sundae, revealed Wednesday
- The Cookie Crave – 25% off plus a limited-time Breanna Nix cookie
- East Side – Special Breanna Nix cocktail
- Studio LaSalle – “The Breanna” hair treatment and “You’re Going to Hollywood” blowout for $55 all May
- LSA Burger – “The Texas Idol” cocktail
- Norman Roscoe – Live printing of “VOTE FOR BREANNA” tees for $10 or free BYO tee printing during the parade
- Captiva Salon – 20% off products when you show proof of voting
- Rose Costumes – 23% off rentals and purchases on parade da
- Game Changers Sports Bar & Grill and Dusty’s Bar & Grill – $6.99 burger baskets and $3 well drinks
- Denton County Brewing Company & Chestnut Tree – Tacos, cookies, cotton candy, popsicles and champagne popsicles during the parade and concert
- Blind Fox Food Truck – 20% off
- Black Fox Brewing Co. – 50% off all checks until 8 PM
- The Plot Twist and Harvest House – Specialty drinks in honor of Breanna
- Flour Power Cooking Studio – Limited-time discount code: BreannaNixIDOL
- Mallouf Hats – Free cross-branding on hats
- Lone Star Naturals – Free Winged Wellness samples
- True Leaf Studio – 23% off services in honor of American Idol Season 23
- Free Play Denton – Special themed drink
All eyes now turn to the American Idol finale. But for Denton, the star has already come home.
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