Photo by: Roxx Fest/When The Sun Sets
Written by: TiShea Wilson, Managing Editor
Pop punk fans heading to Roxx Fest 26 this summer will have plenty to be excited about, especially with the addition of rising band When The Sun Sets to the festival lineup. The Chicago area group is set to perform on June 20 at Portage Mall in Portage, Indiana, sharing the stage with major acts like Simple Plan, Bowling for Soup, Hawthorne Heights, and We the Kings. For a band that has been steadily building momentum in the modern pop punk scene, Roxx Fest represents one of the biggest stages they’ve played yet.
Since forming in the Chicago area, When The Sun Sets has gained attention for blending nostalgic early 2000’s pop punk influences with a fresh modern sound. Their music captures the emotional storytelling that made the genre so beloved while adding a contemporary edge that resonates with a new generation of listeners. Songs like “Seasons,” “Undertow,” and “Came Up Short” highlight the band’s ability to balance infectious hooks with deeply personal lyrics. That emotional honesty has helped them cultivate a loyal and rapidly growing fanbase.
One of the most important aspects of When The Sun Sets is their openness about mental health. The band frequently uses their platform to discuss anxiety, depression, and the struggles many young people face, creating music that reminds listeners they are not alone. Their songs often explore themes of self-doubt, perseverance, and hope, and the band has been vocal about encouraging fans to seek help and talk about what they’re going through.
That message has become a core part of their identity, helping foster a supportive community around their music. For many fans, a When The Sun Sets show is more than just a concert, it’s a place where people can connect, share experiences, and feel understood.
Roxx Fest has become a major destination for rock and alternative fans, and the 2026 lineup mixes iconic bands with emerging artists who represent the future of the genre. For When The Sun Sets, performing at Roxx Fest 26 alongside pop-punk staples is a major milestone. The band recently shared their excitement on social media, encouraging fans to arrive early and support them as they take on one of the largest stages they’ve had the opportunity to play.
Here at Nerd Alert News, we’ve always believed in championing artists who are passionate not just about their music, but about their community. When The Sun Sets embodies that spirit perfectly, combining energetic pop punk anthems with a powerful message about mental health awareness and supporting one another.
With a stacked lineup, an energetic crowd, and a band determined to make an impact both musically and emotionally, Roxx Fest 26 could be another major moment in the rise of When The Sun Sets. If you’re planning to attend the festival, make sure to catch them on June 20. You might just witness one of pop punk’s most promising bands taking the next big step in their journey.
Get your tickets to Roxx Fest 26 at the event’s official website and find everything When The Sun Sets by clicking here.
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