MITCHELL — The spotlight is about to shine on local talent as the finalists for the 2025 Persimmon Idol prepare to take the stage during the Persimmon Festival in Mitchell. The competition will culminate on Monday, Sept. 22, at 7:30 p.m. on the Main Street Stage, where singers will perform before a packed crowd for a chance to win $500 in cash and the coveted Persimmon Idol trophy.
This year’s Persimmon Idol finalists are:
Youth Division (ages 10–17):
- Autumn Butler of Bedford/Shoals
- Lucy Felts of Bedford
- Destiny Fields of Solsberry
- Landon Gray of Seymour
- Evelyn Taylor of Mitchell
Adult Division (ages 18 and up):
- Beau Avery of Paoli
- James Burton of Paoli
- Dawn Keller of Bloomfield
- Troy King of Bedford
- Josie Martin of Bedford
Each contestant will showcase their vocal talent, stage presence, and song choice in hopes of impressing both the judges and the audience. Contestants must follow competition rules that include keeping songs under four minutes, maintaining family-friendly lyrics, and avoiding backing tracks with lead vocals. Performances may be done with instruments, CDs, or completely acapella.
Persimmon Idol has become one of the festival’s most popular attractions, known for its high energy and enthusiastic crowds. For many contestants, the event is more than just a singing competition—it’s a chance to represent their hometowns and experience the thrill of performing on one of the festival’s biggest stages.
With ten finalists ready to sing their hearts out, festivalgoers can expect an evening full of music, talent, and community pride as the 2025 Persimmon Idol winners are crowned.
