When We Were Young Festival 2025 Delivers One of Pop-Punk’s Greatest Days EVER

October 18th in Las Vegas was a milestone for pop-punk fans everywhere, as the When We Were Young Festival delivered what can only be described as one of the greatest festival days in the genre’s history. From start to finish, the energy, the music, and the atmosphere combined for an experience that will be remembered for years to come.

The lineup was packed with icons and rising stars alike, and every set brought something special. Standout performances included The Offspring, whose sunset set closed with fireworks and pyrotechnics; Panic! at the Disco, delivering an hour-and-45-minute spectacle including the full A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out; blink-182, whose irreverent humor and hits had the crowd going wild; Avril Lavigne, bringing timeless pop-punk energy with a flawless rock set; and The Maine and Simple Plan, who kept the crowd singing and dancing through the afternoon. Each act felt like a celebration of the genre itself, and the shared enthusiasm between artists and fans created a feeling of pure communal joy.

The festival itself was impeccably organized and thoughtfully designed. The desert venue provided perfect weather and a sweeping backdrop for a day full of music, photo opportunities, and immersive experiences. Decor was everywhere, creating spaces that were both visually striking and fun to explore, while brand activations added interactive elements that enhanced the overall experience. Food was plentiful and delicious — Island Noodles was a particular highlight — and the overall attention to detail ensured that attendees felt both comfortable and entertained throughout the day.

Beyond the music, the festival captured the spirit of what makes pop-punk special: nostalgia, energy, and connection. Fans of all ages came together, singing, jumping, and reliving the anthems that shaped their youth, while discovering new favorites along the way. Every set felt purposeful, the schedule ran smoothly, and the production value was consistently high.

For those in attendance, the value of the festival went far beyond the ticket price. Between the incredible lineup, the thoughtful production, and the perfect day, it was a fully immersive celebration of music and community. As the sun set over the Las Vegas skyline, it was clear that this was a festival designed to be remembered — a shining example of pop-punk at its finest. One thing is certain: fans are already counting down the days until next year.

Review by: Austin Sher, Photos by: Luther Redd, Justin Agoncillo, Sophia Juliette, Mando Hundreds/When We Were Young