Winning event tickets can seem like a game of chance, but there are actually several strategies you can use to greatly increase your odds. With some planning, persistence, and creativity, you can score free or discounted tickets to concerts, festivals, sporting events, and more. Here are some of the top tips for winning event tickets.
Enter contests and giveaways
One of the easiest ways to win free event tickets is to enter contests and giveaways. Radio stations, blogs, websites, sponsors, venues, and even the performers themselves often run promotions where you can win tickets by doing something simple like filling out a form, commenting on a social media post, or calling in at the right time. Make sure to follow bands, venues, radio stations, and promoters on social media and sign up for email newsletters so you never miss a giveaway opportunity.
You can find contests by:
- Searching online – Try search terms like “[event name] contest” or “win [event] tickets”
- Visiting event and radio station websites
- Following event social media accounts
- Signing up for email newsletters from bands, venues, radio stations, etc.
- Using contest aggregator sites and apps
The more contests you enter, the better your chances. But be sure to read the rules carefully so your entries are valid.
Use social media
Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are great places to find ticket giveaways. Follow the event, performer, venue, and sponsor accounts and turn on notifications so you don’t miss any offers. Reply fast when you see a giveaway post – these often go to the first person to respond or a random selection from the comments. You can also search hashtags like #ticketgiveaway to find open contests.
Another social strategy is to post on your own accounts that you’re looking for tickets. Share why you’re a big fan who deserves to go. Venues and sponsors may reach out with tickets for superfans who show passion and excitement. Tagging the event, performer, or sponsor accounts in your post can help grab their attention.
Check resale sites
Websites like Craigslist and StubHub are filled with people selling extra tickets, sometimes below face value just to make some cash back. You can find great last minute deals on sites like these. Set up alerts for the event you want so you’re notified when new ads are posted.
A few tips for buying from resellers:
- Sort by price to find the best deals
- Be wary of tickets that seem too good to be true
- Check for seller reviews to avoid scams
- Pay via a protected method like PayPal
- Only buy e-tickets or mobile transfers to ensure delivery before event
- Confirm the tickets are valid before completing the transaction
Wait for the pre-sale
Many major concerts and events will offer a pre-sale period where select groups of people can purchase tickets before the general public on-sale. Pre-sales allow you early access to buy tickets before they sell out. Ways to get pre-sale code access include:
- Joining the event email list
- Following the performer on social media
- Being a member of a fan club or VIP program
- Having an account with the ticket seller
- Using a special pre-sale link or code from a sponsor
If you don’t qualify for any pre-sales, you can try finding codes by searching online fan forums, social media, or the event’s mailing list sign-up page code.
Get on the guest list
Being on the guest list basically means you get free admission to an event. Venues and performers keep guest lists to allot tickets for friends, family, VIPs, industry people, and sometimes fans. You usually can’t get on the main guest list, but it’s possible if you have connections with someone involved or work in the industry yourself. Try reaching out to the box office, promoter, radio station, record label, or even band members if you have an in.
Some nightclubs and smaller venues have ongoing guest lists you can add your name to by calling, emailing, or even showing up early to put your name down. These are often first come, first served with limited space so get there as early as possible.
Volunteer
Big concerts, festivals, and major events take armies of volunteers to help run things smoothly. In exchange for a few hours of your time scanning tickets, driving guests, or running errands, you’ll get into the event for free. Plus you get to be part of the action behind the scenes!
Ways to find volunteer positions:
- Event websites – Look for a volunteer sign-up section
- Facebook – Search the event name and “volunteer”
- Volunteer listing sites like VolunteerMatch.org
- Local radio stations and promoters
Popular gigs like taking tickets or assisting backstage go fast so apply early. Not every event needs volunteers but it’s worth looking into for big concerts and festivals in your area.
Get free tickets from work
Some companies receive free event tickets to give out to employees as a job perk or incentive. They may raffle them off internally or allot tickets to top performers. If your company ever gets free event tickets, ask your manager politely if you can be considered. The squeaky wheel gets the grease!
You could also try organizing a large group outing for co-workers which enables you to score a discount or freebies. A venue may hook your company up if you promise to buy a block of 50 tickets together.
Purchase ticket insurance
When buying tickets to hot events months in advance, look into ticket insurance. For around 5-10% of the ticket price, you can purchase insurance that lets you return the tickets for a full refund if you can’t attend for a covered reason like an illness, traffic delay, or schedule conflict. This gives you the assurance to buy great seats knowing you can get a refund if needed.
Go to the box office
While it’s easiest to buy tickets online these days, don’t forget the old school box office! Showing up in person on the first day of sales demonstrates your dedication as a fan and builds a relationship with the staff. They may hook you up with tickets just for making the effort. You can also scope out the seating chart and venue layout to make informed choices if you do end up buying.
Win a radio call-in contest
Radio stations will often give away coveted event tickets to callers who win a trivia game or are the right numbered caller. Tune in frequently leading up to an event and be ready to dial the minute you hear the cue to call. Having speed dial ready improves your chances of getting through first. Repeat the phone number aloud until it’s memorized so you can dial smoothly. Multiple phones can increase your odds too – recruit friends and family to join the call-in contest!
Tips for call-in contests:
- Listen closely for the exact moment they announce calling
- Program the station’s number on speed dial
- Call from a landline instead of cell if possible
- Turn down radio so you can focus on the ring
- Stay on the line if you get a busy signal
- Speak loudly and clearly if you get through
Buy from the venue
Purchasing tickets directly from the event venue’s box office or website is smart because you know the source is legitimate. Many venues offer special pre-sales, package deals, or discounts for their email subscribers too. Buying straight from the venue cuts out shifty resellers and ensures the seats you choose are the ones you get.
A few venue buying tips:
- Sign up for venue email lists to get pre-sale codes and offers
- Check the venue site for fan club or mailing list pre-sales
- Compare to resellers to get the best price
- Avoid extra fees by picking up at box office
Get tickets as payment
If you have a special talent or service to offer, consider trading your services for tickets. Photographers and videographers can offer to work an event in exchange for admission. If you’re skilled at building websites, graphic design, or social media, pitch your services to bands, venues, and promoters in return for tickets. Creative bartering is a fun way to score seats and build real world experience too.
Time it right
Timing is crucial when trying to find ticket deals and discounts. Mark your calendar for pre-sales and on-sales. Sign up for pre-sale codes as early as possible – most events only allot a limited number. Set reminders on your phone so you remember to log in right at the on-sale time for the best selection. Resellers typically list extra tickets for the lowest prices right after the initial rush.
For very popular events, having multiple devices logged in to buy at the same moment can help you snag tickets before they sell out. Enlist friends and family to join the buying brigade!
Conclusion
Winning free or cheap event tickets takes effort and persistence, but the savings and excitement are well worth it. With some planning and creativity, you can see your favorite sports teams, bands, and shows on a budget. Use a combination of online contesting, social media networking, buying strategies, promotions, and old fashioned luck to secure the hot tickets you want. The more avenues you pursue, the greater your chances of scoring seats. Happy ticket hunting!