Purchasing Broadway tickets can be a tricky endeavor. How far in advance you need to buy tickets depends on several factors, including the popularity of the show, the time of year you want to see it, and any promotions or discounts that may be available. In general, buying tickets 1-3 months in advance is recommended for most shows. However, for very popular shows, you may need to purchase 6 months to 1 year in advance to get good seats at non-peak times.
When do Broadway tickets go on sale?
Broadway tickets typically go on sale 6-8 months before a show’s official opening night. However, pre-sale dates may vary. Here is an overview of when you can expect tickets to go on sale:
- For new shows: 6-12 months in advance
- For returning shows: 3-6 months in advance for the next block of performances
- For holiday performances: Up to 1 year in advance
- For high demand shows: 9-12 months in advance
Subscribing to a show’s email list is the best way to find out when new blocks of tickets will be released. Broadway shows want to build buzz and get tickets sold well in advance, so they will announce on sale dates to their loyal fans first.
When is the best time to buy Broadway tickets?
The best time to purchase Broadway tickets depends on several factors:
For popular shows
If there is a hot, new show that is likely to sell out quickly, order tickets as far in advance as possible. This may be 6-12 months before the performance date if it is a major blockbuster. Buying early ensures you can get good seat locations before they sell out.
For less popular shows
If you want to see a show that is not brand new and does not sell out every night, 1-3 months in advance is reasonable. This gives you access to good seats before the most popular dates fill up.
Discounts and promotions
Look for special deals and promotions when planning your Broadway trip. Here are some examples:
- Broadway Week in January/February offers 2-for-1 tickets
- Kids under 18 can get discounted tickets for some shows
- Lotteries and rush tickets for $20-40 are sold day-of-show
- Group discounts are available for parties of 12 or more
Buying early gives you the most schedule flexibility to take advantage of special offers.
Avoid blackout dates
Holidays, summertime, and weekends tend to be the most expensive and highest demand Broadway timeframes. If your schedule allows, aim to visit in the fall (after Labor Day) or during the week to get better prices and availability.
How far in advance for popular Broadway shows?
For Broadway’s perennial hot sellers, you will need to plan 6-12 months out to guarantee tickets. These include hits like:
- Hamilton
- The Lion King
- Wicked
- Dear Evan Hansen
- Book of Mormon
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
- Aladdin
During peak seasons like summertime or the holidays, tickets for the most popular shows may sell out a year or more in advance. If you want front orchestra seats rather than rear mezzanine, plan to book as far ahead as possible.
For example, if you know you want to see Hamilton next May or June, start looking for tickets in January or February of this year. You are much more likely to secure good seats when booking so far in advance.
How far in advance for new shows?
When it comes to fresh, buzzy shows, the more popular the artist or source material, the earlier you need to buy. Here are some tips:
- For shows with A-list composers or songwriters attached, get tickets 6-12 months early.
- For shows based on huge pop culture franchises like Frozen, secure tickets upon first release up to a year out.
- For revival or limited run shows with big name stars, buy when tickets first become available or risk missing out.
If you are flexible on show dates, try to plan your Broadway trip 1-3 months after opening night. This allows some time for reviews to come in and buzz to build. You can make the most informed choice after seeing feedback from professional critics and regular fans. However, don’t wait too long or the hottest shows will sell out fast.
How far for less popular shows?
For Broadway shows that are not brand new releases or overnight sensations, you have a bit more leeway. Aim to purchase tickets 1-3 months in advance for the following types of productions:
- Long-running shows past the first year of performances
- Revivals of previously closed shows
- Plays without big name stars or composers
- Family-friendly shows appealing to tourists
- Jukebox musicals featuring popular old songs
You will have the best price and seat options buying within a 1-3 month window. However, pay close attention to the performance calendar. You still may need to act faster to secure tickets over holidays, school vacations, or summer weekends.
Check the show’s website for a color-coded calendar showing ticket availability. This will help you identify high demand dates.
What are the benefits of buying Broadway tickets far in advance?
Here are some of the key advantages to purchasing Broadway tickets early:
Better availability
Buying months in advance guarantees access to the full range of ticket options before they sell out. You can comparison shop more seat locations.
Price locks
Broadway ticket prices trend higher the closer to showtime. Buying early locks in lower prices before demand-based increases.
Peace of mind
Having an event to look forward to brings excitement. Checking it off your planning list reduces stress.
Flexibility
With your show tickets secured, you can book flights, hotels, and other trip details.
VIP access
Some shows offer early ticket buying windows for fan club members only. This ensures the best seats.
Discounts
Productions may run early bird sales, lotteries, or other deals rewarding those who plan ahead.
What are the risks of buying Broadway tickets too far in advance?
While buying early has advantages, there are also some potential downsides:
Schedule changes
If you need to alter your travel dates, you may get stuck with unusable tickets or incur exchange fees.
Cancellations
Very rarely, shows close earlier than expected. Make sure tickets are refundable or can be exchanged.
Price drops
If ticket sales are slower than anticipated, box offices may release discounted seats you miss out on.
Less info
Buying before reviews are available means you have less show information to guide your decision.
Fees
Some ticketing platforms charge extra fees for early purchases made months in advance.
Changes
Casting or creative team updates close to opening could influence your ticket decision.
Tips for getting the best deal on Broadway tickets
Use these tips to land the perfect seats at the lowest cost:
Buy directly from the theater
Cut out middleman fees by purchasing through the show’s official website or box office.
Join fan clubs
Productions offer exclusive ticket access and discounts to email list members.
Look for coupon codes
Search for online promo codes to deduct a few extra dollars off your order.
See matinees
Afternoon performances are almost always cheaper than evening shows.
Avoid weekends
Attending theater on weeknights yields cheaper tickets with smaller crowds.
Stand in line
Score heavily discounted rush or lottery seats by waiting at the box office on the day.
Check group rates
Most shows offer discounted blocks for groups of 12 or more. Grab friends and save.
Key tips for purchasing Broadway tickets
Follow these top tips when buying Broadway show tickets:
- Book early for high demand shows – 6+ months out
- Purchase 1-3 months in advance for most shows
- Join email lists and fan clubs for the best access
- Aim for weekdays over weekends
- Compare prices across legit ticket sellers
- Buy directly from the theater if possible
- Read the fine print on exchanges, refunds, fees
- Use discounts and promo codes when available
- Act fast once tickets go on sale
With some strategic planning, you can secure amazing Broadway seats without paying a fortune!
Conclusion
Purchasing Broadway show tickets in advance is highly recommended. For super hot shows, buying 6-12 months out provides the best availability. For most productions, aim to buy 1-3 months ahead when planning a trip to New York. Joining fan clubs, buying direct, and seeking discounts will help secure great seats for the best prices. With so many phenomenal shows to choose from, proper planning ensures you can see your top choices and save money. Broadway awaits, so grab those tickets today!
Summary of Key Points
When do Broadway tickets go on sale?
- 6-12 months in advance for new shows
- 3-6 months ahead for upcoming blocks of performances
- Up to 1 year out for holiday shows
- 9-12 months early for very high demand shows
Best time to buy tickets
- As early as possible for hot shows to secure seats
- 1-3 months out for most shows
- During Broadway Week for 2-for-1 deals
- Avoid weekends and peak times for lower prices
How far in advance for popular shows?
- 6-12 months for perennial hits like Hamilton and Wicked
- Upon first release for brand new blockbusters
- When tickets initially go on sale for stars in revivals
How far in advance for other shows?
- 1-3 months for long-running and less popular shows
- Pay close attention to holidays and peak dates
- Use ticket calendar on website to identify high demand