Even if they didn’t get to play, they still spent the whole day with a smile on their face - that’s more than what most of us can say…
I don’t think it’s a waste - we know he can bring things with him when uses the Speed Force (his clothes), so being able to travel without needing to run and use up stamina isn’t the worst decision.
Protests only work if they’re disruptive. Otherwise, people just ignore them and move on.