The countdown to When We Were Young Festival 2025 is officially on, and festival organizers have just dropped the full schedule along with a detailed map of the festival grounds. With more than 50 artists across 4 stages, a little strategy will come in handy when trying to pack as much music into your day as possible.

While the Pink and 7-Eleven stages tend to grab the most attention, the Ghost and Allianz stages are stacked with talent you won’t want to miss. Here are the top five acts across the Ghost and Allianz stages we think are worth checking out. 

The Rocket Summer (Ghost Stage 12:45)

The Rocket Summer, solo project of Bryce Avary, has been a staple in the emo/pop-punk world for over two decades. Avary is known for his infectious energy and melodies and multi-instrumental talent, often incorporating live loop jams into his performances that showcase his skills on the drums, keys, and guitar. Fans looking for an uplifting set packed with positivity and raw musical talent should put this set at the top of their list.  

Holding Absence (Allianz Stage 12:25)

UK post-hardcore rockers Holding Absence leave everything on the stage. Frontman Lucas Woodland brings constant energy, jumping and kicking while packing emotion into every lyric, while the band’s dramatic instrumentals add to the intensity of the experience. If you want to immerse yourself into something raw and passionate, Holding Absence’s set is a great choice.  

The Cab (Ghost Stage 3:05)

The Cab’s return to the stage is one that fans will not want to miss! The pop-rock quartet, known for their genre-blending and charismatic energy, is sure to wow with a set that is both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re singing along to “Angel With a Shotgun” or leaving with a new favorite from their recently released EP, The Cab’s performance will be a high-energy, unforgettable experience.

Ice Nine Kills (Allianz Stage 6:50)

If you’re into theatrical, high-energy metalcore, Ice Nine Kill’s set is one you won’t want to miss. The band mixes horror-inspired theatrics with powerful music, which makes for a real spectacle of a show. Their set is sure to shock, entertain, and keep you engaged from the start. 

Jack’s Mannequin (Allianz Stage 8:00)

Jack’s Mannequin is making a festival comeback that fans won’t want to miss. Frontman Andrew McMahon is a natural performer known for leaping off his piano, running across the stage, and even crowd-surfing on inflatable pool floaties. Every performance is joyful and unpredictable. With piano-driven songs like “Dark Blue” and “Bruised,” the band mixes nostalgia, emotion, and energy for a set that is sure to be memorable.

The Ghost and Allianz stages might be smaller, but they will hold some of the weekend’s most unforgettable  performances. Check the schedule, plan your route, and make these sets a priority, because these are the moments that make WWWY special.

Tickets for Sunday still remain. Grab a ticket while you still can for an opportunity to experience the festival fans will be talking about for years to come.