Energetic Rock Vibes and Political Messages at the When We Were Young Festival
The When We Were Young Festival, held at the vibrant Las Vegas Festival Grounds, is a celebrated event that has become the go-to for aficionados of pop-punk, emo, and hardcore punk music. The fourth annual event, sponsored by 7-Eleven, took place over a spirited weekend, with artists delivering unforgettable performances on both days. With heavy hitters like Panic! at the Disco and Blink-182 headlining, fans were treated to a nostalgic journey paired with the raw energy that defines the punk rock scene.
Headlining Acts and Special Surprises
As one could expect, the festival was brimming with iconic performances, featuring fan-favorites such as Weezer, Avril Lavigne, The Offspring, Simple Plan, and All Time Low. The excitement was palpable as each artist took the stage, igniting the crowd with anthems that resonate with a generation. Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus expertly engaged the audience with his witty remark, “You guys having fun? Well, knock that shit off. This is an emo show, motherfucker.” Such interactions heightened the festival’s energetic atmosphere, reminding everyone of the playful rebellion inherent to punk.
The festival also featured some unexpected cameo performances. Notably, Sum 41 frontman Deryck Whibley joined his ex-wife, Avril Lavigne, for a heartwarming rendition of “In Too Deep.” Meanwhile, Simple Plan’s Pierre Bouvier collaborated with Lavigne on their catchy duet "Young & Dumb." The excitement didn’t stop there; Blackbear made a surprise appearance to perform “Monsters” with All Time Low, marking a memorable moment fans won’t soon forget.
A Milestone Performance from Panic! at the Disco
Perhaps the most anticipated moment was the return of Panic! at the Disco, marking their first live performance since disbanding earlier in 2023. In a nod to nostalgia, the band played through their debut album, A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Lead singer Brendon Urie expressed gratitude to the fans, saying, “Thank you for 20 years of chaos and beauty.” Such a heartfelt tribute resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of both the music and the fans who have supported them throughout the years.
A Show of Political Statements
While the music pulsed through the crowd, the festival also served as a platform for political expression, aligning with the punk ethos that often challenges the status quo. The first day of the festival coincided with the “No Kings” protests, staged in response to the former Trump administration, injecting a sense of urgency and relevance into the festivities.
Artists made bold political statements through their attire and on-stage remarks. The Offspring’s guitarist, Noodles, donned a “No Kings” T-shirt, while Story of the Year’s bassist, Adam Russell, made a statement in a shirt that read “Destroy American Fascism.” These expressions of dissent were met with cheers, reinforcing the idea that punk rock is not only about music—it’s about community, resistance, and a call for change.
Raising Awareness for Important Causes
In a notably powerful moment, The Used showcased their support for the Palestinian cause by unveiling a “Freedom for Palestine” flag during their set. Lead singer Bert McCracken was met with applause as he passionately declared, “Freedom for fucking Palestine!” Such bold activism resonated with many attendees, further affirming the festival’s role as an intersection for music and social commentary.
A Celebration of Community and Resistance
The When We Were Young Festival is more than just a collection of concerts; it’s a celebration of music, community, and the rebellious spirit that defines punk culture. With each performance, artists revisited cherished memories while simultaneously addressing pressing social and political issues, creating a dynamic and engaging experience that left an indelible mark on everyone present.