Concert Review: Mayday Parade's "Three Cheers for 20 Years" Tour at Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg, PA

A Night of Nostalgia and New Beginnings

On May 24, 2025, the Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA, was the epicenter of emo revival as Mayday Parade brought their "Three Cheers for 20 Years" tour to a sold-out crowd. The evening was a heartfelt journey through two decades of music, memories, and the unbreakable bond between the band and their fans.

The night kicked off with Like Roses, a band hailing from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Their blend of punk and emo influences set an energetic tone for the evening. Microwave, an alternative rock band from Atlanta, Georgia, followed with a set that showcased their fusion of post-hardcore, indie rock, and emo. Their performance featured tracks from their latest album, "Let's Start Degeneracy," released in April 2024. Grayscale, originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, closed the opening acts with their pop-punk sound, performing songs from their discography that spans over a decade.

As the lights dimmed, two large video screens illuminated the stage, showcasing vintage MTV footage of Mayday Parade's early days on the Warped Tour circuit. This nostalgic montage set the stage for a night that honored the band's roots while celebrating their evolution.

Opening with "By the Way," the band immediately connected with the audience, many of whom have grown alongside them over the past 20 years. The setlist was a carefully curated mix of fan favorites and deep cuts, including "Three Cheers for Five Years," "Jersey," "Miserable at Best," and "Oh Well, Oh Well." Each song was met with enthusiastic sing-alongs, tears, and smiles, as fans relived the soundtrack of their youth.

Adding to the night's magic, Mayday Parade welcomed several guest performers to the stage. Collin Walsh of Grayscale joined for a poignant rendition of "Three Cheers for Five Years," while Amy Schmalkuche of Like Roses lent her vocals to "One of Them Will Destroy the Other." Nathan Hardy of Microwave contributed to "Who's Laughing Now," showcasing the camaraderie among the tour's lineup. These collaborations highlighted the sense of community that defines the emo and pop-punk scenes.

The audience was a vibrant mix of "elder emos" reliving their formative years and a new generation of fans discovering the band's music for the first time. This cross-generational appeal underscored Mayday Parade's enduring relevance and the timeless nature of their music.

The "Three Cheers for 20 Years" tour continues with upcoming stops at Pier 17 in New York on May 28, House of Blues in Boston on May 30, and The Fillmore in Philadelphia on May 31. The tour will culminate in a hometown show at The Moon in Tallahassee, FL, bringing the celebration full circle.

Mayday Parade's performance at the Sherman Theater was more than a concert; it was a heartfelt celebration of a band's journey and the fans who have supported them every step of the way. As the final notes of "Jamie All Over" echoed through the venue, it was clear that the band's legacy is not just in their music, but in the memories they've created with their fans over the past two decades.

Note: Fans are advised to purchase tickets through official channels to avoid counterfeit tickets, as some attendees were unfortunately turned away due to fraudulent purchases.

***ALL PHOTOS by Scott Kucharski