A virtual ticket is a digital ticket that grants access to an online event or experience. Instead of receiving a paper ticket, attendees purchase and receive a virtual ticket that they can use to gain entry into a virtual event platform. Virtual tickets have become increasingly common as more events move online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Do Virtual Tickets Work?
When you purchase a virtual ticket for an online event, you will receive a confirmation email with a ticket code or link to access the event. This virtual ticket will grant you access to the event just like a regular ticket, but it exists entirely digitally.
Some of the most common ways virtual tickets work include:
- A unique code or link emailed to you that you enter on the event platform to gain access.
- An account you create during ticket purchase that you use to login to the event.
- A barcode or QR code you receive that you scan on the event platform.
- A virtual ticket downloaded to a digital wallet on your phone that you show for entry.
When you go to access the virtual event on the specified date and time, you will sign in with your virtual ticket credentials or scan your ticket barcode to be granted access by the platform.
Many virtual event platforms will have apps you can download to store your ticket. You simply open the app during the event and show your virtual ticket to gain entry and access the event features.
Benefits of Virtual vs. Paper Tickets
There are a few key benefits that virtual tickets have over traditional paper tickets for events:
- Convenience: Virtual tickets exist online and can’t be lost or forgotten. All you need is your confirmation email with the ticket details.
- Accessibility: Virtual tickets expand access since you don’t have to collect a paper ticket in person.
- Security: Virtual tickets come with QR codes and unique links that are near impossible to fake or duplicate.
- Sustainability: Virtual tickets are better for the environment since they don’t use physical resources.
- Flexibility: Virtual tickets allow entry from anywhere with an internet connection.
Types of Virtual Events Using Tickets
Virtual tickets can be used for all kinds of online events. Some of the most popular types of virtual events that use virtual ticketing include:
- Concerts: From small indie performances to huge globally-streamed concerts.
- Comedy Shows: Live standup comedy performances.
- Esports: Competitive video gaming tournaments and events.
- Fan Events: Events about TV shows, movies, books and more for fans.
- Fitness: Online exercise classes, lessons and workshops.
- Classes & Lectures: Educational presentations, talks, lessons.
- Business: Conferences, trade shows, corporate events and seminars.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to online events that use virtual ticketing. Any experience that was ticketed live can now be translated into a virtual event with virtual tickets.
How to Buy Virtual Tickets
Purchasing a virtual ticket is quite easy and similar to buying a regular ticket. Here are the basic steps:
- Find a virtual event and click the “Get Tickets” button.
- Select the type of ticket you want to buy and enter the quantity.
- Enter your contact information like name and email address.
- Enter payment details and complete the purchase.
- Receive a confirmation email with your virtual ticket info.
- Access the event on the date/time using your virtual ticket.
Make sure when you purchase a virtual ticket that the confirmation email comes through with your ticket details. This will contain the crucial info you’ll need to access the event. Keep the email handy so you can easily pull it up when the event starts.
Many virtual events will have apps you can download as well where they will store your virtual ticket. You can login with the same details from your confirmation email.
How Much Do Virtual Tickets Cost?
Virtual ticket pricing can vary greatly depending on the type of event. Some common virtual ticket price ranges include:
- Online classes and lectures – Free – $50
- Small online performances – $10 – $30
- Virtual conferences – $50 – $200
- Streamed concerts/festivals – $20 – $500+
- Big fan and esports events – $50 – $100+
Of course, some huge global virtual events with celebrity guests can charge much higher prices due to demand. But for most online events, virtual ticket prices aim to be affordable since there is an unlimited supply.
Certain factors also impact virtual ticket pricing:
- Event type
- Event size and scope
- Production costs
- Guest celebrities/VIPs
- Audience demand
- Desired revenue goals
In general, expect to pay less for a virtual ticket than an in-person event ticket since there are no venue and production costs to factor in. But popular virtual events still charge premium rates based on audience demand.
Biggest Platforms for Virtual Events
There are a variety of platforms used for hosting virtual events that utilize virtual ticketing. Some of the biggest and most popular include:
Platform | Details |
---|---|
Zoom | The video conferencing platform offers tools to host webinars, conferences, and other virtual events. |
Hopin | An event management platform with features to recreate in-person event experiences online. |
Run The World | An end-to-end platform tailored specifically for virtual and hybrid event hosting. |
Livestorm | A platform optimized for hosting virtual conferences, workshops, and other events. |
Airmeet | A feature-rich virtual event platform with apps, interactivity tools, and custom branding. |
These platforms and others like them allow organizers to easily create virtual tickets, manage registration and access, network attendees, and recreate the in-person event experience online.
Tips for Attending Events With Virtual Tickets
Here are some tips to ensure you enjoy events you attend using virtual tickets:
- Read your ticket email carefully: Know exactly how to access the event and use your ticket.
- Get tech details in advance: Many events will recommend internet speeds to properly stream.
- Download any required apps beforehand: Don’t wait until the event starts to download apps.
- Join the event 10-15 min early: Give yourself time to get logged in, connected, and ready.
- Charge devices fully: Ensure your laptop, phone, tablet, and headphones are fully charged.
- Find a quiet space: Reduce distractions and background noise.
- Engage actively: Ask questions, join discussions, react. The more active you are, the more you’ll take away.
Following tips like these will help you avoid any technical headaches and be fully engaged during virtual events you attend.
The Future of Virtual Events
While born out of necessity during the pandemic, virtual events are likely here to stay. They offer convenience, broad access, and savings compared to in-person events. Even when live events fully return, many organizers will adopt a hybrid model with both virtual and in-person options.
Some ways we’ll see virtual events continue to evolve include:
- More immersive and interactive platforms like 3D virtual worlds, AR, and VR.
- Seamless integration and transition between in-person and online attendees.
- Greater personalization, including AI-recommended sessions and connections.
- Platforms purpose-built for specific industries and event types.
- More hybrid event options blending live and virtual elements.
Virtual ticketing technology will improve in tandem, with enhanced security, convenience, and flexibility. What remains constant is that virtual tickets will continue enabling easy access to engaging online event experiences.
Conclusion
Virtual ticketing has opened the door to a vast array of online events and experiences. While live in-person events will make a return after COVID-19, virtual events are here to stay thanks to their lower barriers to access and convenience factors. Continued innovations will make virtual event platforms and ticketing even more immersive, secure and user-friendly. With a simple virtual ticket, engaging experiences from concerts to conferences and everything in between are now just a click away.