Simple Plan Deliver High-Octane Nostalgia at When We Were Young

On October 18th, the Las Vegas desert transformed into a pop-punk paradise as the When We Were Young Festival delivered an unforgettable lineup of bands, and Simple Plan proved why they remain one of the genre’s enduring favorites. Playing a short but electrifying set during the day, the band brought their signature energy, performed all the hits, and reminded fans why their music has become the soundtrack to so many formative moments.

From the opening chords, the crowd went absolutely wild. Thousands of fans sang along to every chorus, fists pumping and voices echoing across the festival grounds. Simple Plan’s stage presence was nothing short of electric — the band effortlessly balanced playful banter with tight, polished performance, creating an immediate connection that made the audience feel like part of the show. Even after all these years, their sound remains vibrant, the melodies crisp, the emotions raw, and the energy undeniable.

The set, though compact, was meticulously crafted, hitting all the fan favorites while leaving room for the excitement of new moments. The day performance felt like a shared celebration of nostalgia, with attendees reliving memories of first concerts, road trips, and endless singalongs. The band’s chemistry and charisma were on full display, their tight musicianship proving they can still hold their own alongside a generation of newer acts.

Later in the day, Simple Plan returned to the stage alongside Avril Lavigne, creating one of the festival’s standout collaborative moments. The pairing of these pop-punk icons was pure magic, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Together, they delivered a high-energy, crowd-pleasing performance that underscored the timelessness of early 2000s pop-punk and the enduring bond between fans and their favorite bands. It was a moment of pure joy, perfectly encapsulating the festival’s spirit of connection and celebration.

Throughout the day, Simple Plan proved that nostalgia doesn’t have to be a quiet reflection — it can be loud, fast, and incredibly fun. Their set reinforced why they remain an essential part of the genre, showing that even after decades, they still have the power to make fans scream, dance, and sing at the top of their lungs.

When We Were Young 2025 was already an incredible day of bands and artists, but Simple Plan’s performances — both solo and with Avril Lavigne — were a highlight, a reminder that pop-punk’s heart beats strong, vibrant, and unyielding. It was short, sweet, and unforgettable — a perfect snapshot of why fans keep coming back for more.

Review by: Austin Sher, Photos by: Justin Agoncillo/When We Were Young