If you have pit tickets to a concert, you’ll want to make sure you arrive early enough to get a good spot up close to the stage. The pit is usually standing room only, so arriving early is key. Here are some tips on how early you should arrive for pit tickets:
What is the pit at a concert?
The pit at a concert venue refers to the standing room only area right in front of the stage. It typically does not have seats or assigned spots. Fans with pit tickets can get closest to the performers. Pits are usually small areas that fill up quickly, so you need to arrive early to get a good spot.
How early should you line up for the pit?
As a general rule, you’ll want to arrive at least 2-3 hours before the doors open if you want to be in the front row of the pit. Some super fans may show up 4+ hours early to camp out and be the first ones in. Here are some tips on when to arrive:
Event Size | When to Arrive |
---|---|
Small club show | 1-2 hours before doors |
Medium concert | 2-3 hours before |
Large arena concert | 3+ hours before |
Festival show | 4+ hours before |
The bigger the act and the venue, the earlier you’ll want to arrive to get a good spot in the pit. For huge acts like The Rolling Stones or Taylor Swift, fans may camp out overnight!
Other tips for the pit:
- Eat before you arrive – there is no food allowed in the pit
- Use the restroom beforehand – leaving the pit means losing your spot
- Stay hydrated – bring a sealed water bottle to keep with you
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be standing for hours
- Bring earplugs – the sound is louder up close
- Charge your phone – you’ll want to take photos and videos
- Bring a sharpie – you may have a chance to get autographs
- Arrive with friends – it’s easier to take turns holding your spot for bathroom breaks
Is it worth arriving super early?
It really depends on how close you want to be and how devoted you are as a fan. If your goal is to get front and center against the barrier, then yes – arriving 4+ hours early may be worth it. However, if you just want to be in the first few rows, 2-3 hours should be sufficient.
Some things to keep in mind:
- The first few rows don’t offer the best views since you are very close and looking up. 10-15 feet back can give you a better perspective.
- The sound quality is not necessarily better up front – speakers are aimed outwards.
- You’ll be packed in tight with no personal space.
- Hours of standing can be tiring and tough on your body.
While the thrill of being front row may be exciting, after the first few songs, it doesn’t necessarily translate into a better overall concert experience. Many fans are happy hanging further back where they have more space to dance and better sight lines.
Should you pay more for pit tickets?
Pit tickets typically cost more than seated tickets in other sections. Here are some pros and cons of paying more for pit access:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Get close to artists | No personal space |
Better view of performances | Standing whole time |
Livelier energy up front | Can’t leave easily |
Unforgettable experience | Exhausting for long shows |
Better photos/videos | Higher cost of tickets |
Ultimately it comes down to your budget and preferences. For big fans who want that up close experience, paying more for pit access can be worth it. But the pit isn’t necessary to enjoy a great show.
Tips if you can’t get there super early
If you aren’t able to arrive 3+ hours early, you can still get into the pit when doors open and have a good experience:
- Scope out an entrance that looks less crowded
- Politely work your way through the crowd as far forward as possible
- Move to the center for better views versus the sides
- Accept that you won’t likely be at the barricade
- Watch the big screens to see the performers up close
- Let shorter fans move up front of you
- Stay positive and enjoy the music and energy!
Should you still go if you can’t make it early?
Even if you don’t arrive super early, pit tickets can still be a great concert experience. Some benefits include:
- Better view compared to seated sections behind the pit
- Closer perspective to see expressions, costumes, etc.
- The exciting atmosphere being near other fans
- More freedom to dance and move than in seats
- Unique memories being at ground zero of the show
You won’t be front row without arriving early, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t have an amazing time in the pit. Ultimately being there for the music and enjoying the collective energy are what matter most, not proximity to the stage. So go ahead and rock out from wherever you end up!
Conclusion
To summarize, if getting the closest spot possible is your top priority, you’ll want to arrive at least 2-3 hours (or more) before doors open for pit tickets. The bigger the show, the earlier fans will start lining up. But keep in mind the first few rows come with pros and cons. Arriving when doors open can still land you in a decent spot in the pit to enjoy the show. While an up-close view is great, what truly matters is soaking up the live music experience with other fans.