Getting last minute concert tickets can seem daunting, especially if the show is sold out. However, with some persistence and insider tricks, scoring cheap last minute tickets is possible. This article will explore tips and tactics for finding affordable tickets, even if you’ve waited until the last minute.
Check the box office
One of the best ways to get last minute deals is to go straight to the source – the venue’s box office. Box offices will often release last minute tickets at discounted prices leading up to the event. This could include returned tickets or tickets held for promotion. You can sometimes score these last minute tickets for well below face value.
Checking the box office frequently is key. Newly released discounted tickets tend to go fast. Try stopping by in person a few days before the event and the day of the show. Politely ask the staff if there are any ticket releases or discounts you can take advantage of.
Utilize presale codes
Many concerts will offer special presale ticket access for groups like fan club members or credit card holders. These presale code tickets are released before the general public sale. This gives you early access to purchase tickets before the masses.
Presale ticket releases tend to start selling out quickly too. But they can offer you more choices and even discounted pricing. Research the concert and join any applicable fan clubs or credit card reward programs. This will provide you presale code access.
Try third party resellers
Third party ticket resellers can offer heavily discounted last minute tickets. Sites like StubHub and Vivid Seats let users resell event tickets. As the event date approaches, resellers will often slash prices just to unload their extras.
Sort ticket listings by price and look for the best deals. Seats may not be all together or the best locations. But you can score major savings on legit event tickets. Caution is still advised when purchasing third party. Be sure to vet the seller and use a protected payment method in case the tickets fall through.
Trustworthy resellers
Here are some third party ticket resellers to check for discounted last minute tickets:
- StubHub
- Vivid Seats
- SeatGeek
- Ticketmaster Resale
- TickPick
Check fan forums
Die-hard fans will often scoop up extra tickets that they end up needing to sell. Check fan forums and Facebook groups to find people ditching their extras. OfferUp and Craigslist can also have fans selling tickets below face value as concert dates approach.
The key is sorting through the posts and responding quickly when you spot a good deal. Have your payment ready to go through a protected method like PayPal. Arranging to meet up in person for ticket exchange further reduces your risk of getting scammed.
Wait until the last minute
This risky move can pay off big if you get lucky. Stubbornly waiting until the last minute means sellers are more desperate to unload tickets. Even sold out shows will sometimes release production holds leading up to showtime.
Constantly check online resellers and box offices leading up to the event date. You may luck into heavily discounted tickets as frantic sellers slash prices. Just be cautious of scams. And have back up plans or alternate events in mind.
Get on the waitlist
Most ticket sales platforms like Ticketmaster have waitlists you can join when an event sells out. This puts you in line to purchase tickets if more are released. Waitlist notifications tend to happen last minute as final production holds get released.
Waitlist tickets are typically available at regular prices. But it gives you a shot at scooping up tickets even when crowds are told it’s sold out. Turn on notifications so you can rapidly take advantage of any ticket release alerts.
Consider partial view seats
Partial view seats let you see part of the stage down an alleyway or behind an obstruction. Venues will heavily discount these tickets to fill the seats. You won’t get the ideal viewing experience. But partial view seats can provide major savings on sold out shows.
The key is scoping out the seat location ahead of time. Some alley or side view seats still provide decent experiences. Just avoid seats with extremely obstructed views unless the price is irresistible.
Follow venue social media
Venues will often announce last minute deals and discounts on their social media pages. Following the social accounts of the concert hall on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can provide you insider access. This could include presale codes, last minute ticket releases, and other special deals.
Turn on notifications for the venue’s social media accounts. Keep a close eye leading up to the event dates. Strike quickly when you see a discounted ticket deal announced.
Consider general admission
General admission or “GA” tickets don’t reserve specific seats. Instead you get general access to a standing room only section. These tickets are often much cheaper than buying assigned seats.
The main downside is you’ll need to arrive early to stake out a good spot. But for the budget conscious, general admission provides an affordable option at sold out shows. Just be ready to stand for long periods of time.
Work the waiting line
For very popular shows, dedicated fans will camp out in line leading up to the doors opening. This is more common at large arenas and festivals. Joining the waiting line well before the show could score you tickets.
As show time approaches, staff may release extra tickets to help shorten the line. Chat up the waiting crowd and ask staff what your odds are. You could luck your way into finding affordable passes. Just bring provisions and be prepared for a long wait.
Get creative with contests & promotions
Radio stations, promotional partners, and artist fan clubs will often give away ticket packages. Liking, sharing, and commenting on their social media posts can help score you freebies. You can also frequently check concert ticket sites for special giveaways and contests.
Your chances are slim but it costs nothing but a few minutes of your time. Entering every contest and giveaway you can find gives you more opportunities to win.
Conclusion
Scoring last minute concert deals is tricky but possible withpersistence and creativity. Avoiding sell out events and buying earlyremains the best bet for deals and access. But continuing to check all resources leading up to showtime can help you land discounted tickets.
The key is acting swiftly when you find last minute deals and leveraging all possible resources. With strategic timing and good luck, you can still get into hot concerts at the last minute without breaking the bank.
Tactic | How it Works | Things to Know |
---|---|---|
Check Box Office | Directly ask box office staff about unsold tickets or releases | Check frequently as discounted tickets go quickly |
Use Presale Codes | Gives early ticket access before general public sale | Join fan clubs and mailing lists to get codes |
Buy Reseller Tickets | Resellers deeply discount unsold tickets near event date | Sort by lowest price and vet seller reputation |
Buy from Fans | Check fan forums and marketplaces for people dumping extras | Act quickly on deals and use protected payments |
Wait Until Last Minute | Prices drop as sellers scramble to unload tickets | High risk so have back up plan in case you get shut out |
Following the tactics in this article will give you the best chances of scoring discounted tickets at the last minute. With enough persistence and luck, you can beat the high prices and see your favorite concert on a budget.
What has your experience been like trying to get last minute tickets? Let us know your tips and tricks in the comments!