When We Were Young Festival Pauses for 2026, Set to Return to Las Vegas in 2027
Guillermo del ToroOscar-winning filmmaker and author whose work and commentary explore fantasy, horror, and cinema.
A Brief Intermission for a Beloved Festival
The Announcement: A Strategic Pause for Quality
Organizers of the popular When We Were Young Festival recently declared a hiatus for 2026, assuring fans that the event will resume in Las Vegas by October 2027. This decision, conveyed in a statement, emphasizes a commitment to refining the festival experience, ensuring it maintains its distinctive charm and high standards. The exact reasons for this temporary suspension were not explicitly detailed, but the focus remains on enhancing the event's future iterations.
A Legacy of Nostalgia: From Santa Ana to Las Vegas
Since its inception in 2017 in Santa Ana, California, the When We Were Young Festival has cultivated a dedicated following, particularly among millennials drawn to its nostalgia-infused atmosphere. The festival relocated to Las Vegas in 2022, establishing itself as an annual highlight there until 2025. It mirrors the spirit of other music events like Vans Warped Tour, focusing on bands and artists performing their iconic albums in their entirety, catering to a yearning for past musical eras.
Highlighting Past Performances: Blink-182 and Panic! at the Disco
The festival's past editions have featured an array of renowned acts, consistently delivering memorable performances. Last year's event, for example, saw headline performances by Blink-182 and Panic! at the Disco. The latter captivated audiences by performing their acclaimed album “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” from start to finish, underscoring the festival's unique appeal in celebrating musical heritage.

