As they performed at in , The Wonder Years showed their support to two controversial topics. Lead singer Dan "Soupy" Campbell took a moment between songs to make it clear where they stood on social issues. He said, "The onus is on us now more than ever to protect trans youth.
" The pop punk star went on to declare: "Free !" A resounding and loud cheer from the audience erupted before the band launched back into their musical set which included their songs like Local Man Ruins Everything and Came Out Swinging. The crowd was quick to switch back into the jive of the songs, opening up the moshpit and hoisting crowd surfers above their heads. Historically, The Wonder Years is known for their heavily left-leaning opinions on social issues with Dan being a long-time Bernie Sanders supporter.
They're known for advocating for underrepresented minority groups, emphasizing inclusivity on their tours by only working with venues willing to provide gender neutral bathrooms and working with organizations to make their lighting as mindful disabilities as possible. The Wonder Years are set for a fall tour alongside -based band The Menzingers. Sad Summer Fest took over Pier 17 for the fourth time since its inception.
The return to the rooftop came after last year's twist when the tour organizers chose to play at amphitheater-style venues, something they quickly remedied for 2024. This year, the show saw a packed lineup, including Daisy Grenade, Knuckle Puck, We The Kings, Real Friends, The Mai.