Getting the best deal on tickets through Ticketmaster often comes down to timing. With dynamic pricing models that respond to supply and demand, ticket prices can fluctuate significantly leading up to an event. By carefully considering factors like when tickets go on sale, when an event is scheduled, and when resellers start listing seats, you can find the ideal time to purchase tickets for the lowest cost.
When Do Ticketmaster Tickets Go On Sale?
Tickets for most major concerts, sports games, theater shows, and other events go on sale through Ticketmaster roughly two to six months prior to the event date. Typically, an initial block of tickets will be released right when the event is announced. Fans eager to get great seats for highly anticipated events will want to try grabbing tickets as soon as sales begin.
Following the initial on-sale date, Ticketmaster will often release more tickets in batches leading up to the event. The event organizer may hold back some seats for pre-sales offered through fan clubs, credit card companies, and other groups. Any unsold tickets could be released again closer to the event. This creates more chances for bargain hunters to find last-minute deals.
Ticketmaster On-Sale Dates
- Major concerts: 4-6 months before the event
- Sports games: 2-3 months before the event
- Theater shows: 1-3 months before the event
- Comedy shows: 1-2 months before the event
Keep an eye out for announcements from the event organizer or venue about when more tickets will be released on Ticketmaster. Act fast when you see new seats pop up.
How Event Day and Time Affects Prices
When an event is scheduled can impact Ticketmaster prices. Generally, tickets for events on weekends and during peak hours cost more than events at less desirable times. Here are some timing factors that commonly influence Ticketmaster ticket prices:
Weekend vs. Weekday Events
Ticket prices typically spike for events on Friday and Saturday nights compared to weeknights. Since most people are off work on weekends, demand increases. For example, a concert ticket on a Saturday night could be $20-$30 more expensive than the same event on a Tuesday. Consider attending weekday shows to save.
Matinee vs. Evening Shows
For theaters and other timed events, matinee shows earlier in the day usually come with lower ticket prices. Patrons need to take time off work to attend evening shows, so event organizers charge more for the convenience. Matinee prices can be 20-40% cheaper than evening tickets.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Hours
Ticket prices for events tend to be highest when demand is highest. For sports games and concerts, the most popular start times around 7-8 PM come with premium pricing. Games or shows starting earlier in the day or night are more affordable. If you have flexible schedule, choosing off-peak event times can lead to big savings.
Event Type | Cheaper Time | More Expensive Time |
---|---|---|
Concerts | Weeknights, Sundays | Friday and Saturday nights |
Sports Games | Afternoons, weeknights | Friday and Saturday nights |
Theater Shows | Matinees, weekdays | Evenings, weekends |
How Far in Advance Should You Buy?
As a general rule, ticket prices tend to be lower the further in advance you purchase. But there are some exceptions to consider.
Buy Early for Hot Events
The most in-demand events often see tickets sell out completely within hours or days of going on sale. In these cases, early buyers get first pick of the best seats before they’re snatched up. Buying as soon as sales open can secure you tickets before prices skyrocket in the secondary market. This applies to things like major concert tours, championship games, Broadway blockbusters, and more.
Wait for Last-Minute Deals
For less popular events that don’t instantly sell out, ticket prices often drop in the final weeks leading up to show time as organizers try to fill remaining seats. You may be able to find great deals a month or less before the event if availability is still high. This is common for things like minor league sports, small music acts, non-hit Broadway shows, and events during slow seasons.
Watch Out for Dynamic Pricing
Many Ticketmaster events now use dynamic pricing that adjusts over time according to demand. Prices may randomly spike then plummet again weeks later. Closely watch ticket listings for your desired event to try and purchase when the cost dips. Signing up for price alerts can help catch price drops.
How Resale Ticket Listings Affect Cost
The flood of resell tickets from third-party brokers also influences Ticketmaster prices as an event nears. Here’s how it shakes out:
Early Buying Beats Resale Prices
Right when tickets initially go on sale, buying direct from Ticketmaster virtually guarantees the best rates. Early buyers get first pick of seats before reseller sites scoop up inventory. But you have to act almost instantly for very popular events.
Resellers Can Drive Prices Down
As resell sites accumulate excess ticket inventory that needs to be offloaded later, it can drive prices down across the board. Excess supply on the secondary market may force brokers to drop prices lower than face value. This can allow patient fans to swoop in for last-minute deals.
Resellers Can Also Inflate Prices
For big games and top concerts, huge demand on reseller sites can conversely send prices through the roof. Brokers may charge four or five times more than face value. Buying directly from Ticketmaster before things sell out helps avoid inflated resale pricing.
Tips for Finding the Best Ticketmaster Prices
Here are some top tips for getting the cheapest prices on Ticketmaster:
Sign Up for Pre-Sales
Getting exclusive access to pre-sales through fan clubs, artist newsletters, credit card rewards programs, and other offers is key to getting the first crack at tickets before they sell out and prices jump. This takes planning ahead but can save you big.
Use the Ticketmaster App
The Ticketmaster app typically loads new seats faster than the website when seats are released in batches. You may be able to snag newly available discounted tickets using the app if the website shows sold out.
Consider Season Tickets
If you plan to attend multiple games, shows, or events over an entire season, look into season ticket packages. Buying a season pass can secure you tickets to all events at a discounted bulk rate compared to buying individually.
Go For General Admission
When available, opting for general admission pit tickets rather than reserving a specific seat can lead to big savings. You won’t get an assigned chair, but you’ll pay less at the door.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest Ticketmaster prices requires closely tracking when new seats are released for sale, acting fast when in-demand events go on sale, and having flexibility on dates and times. Following ticket price patterns across weekdays, evenings, pre-sales, and general admission seats can help you unlock the best deals. With strategic timing based on factors like event popularity, day of the week, and proximity to the event date, you can discover when Ticketmaster tickets are most affordably priced for any show or game.