Introduction
The NFC Championship game is one of the most anticipated events on the NFL calendar every year. As the gateway to the Super Bowl, the NFC Championship decides which team from the NFC will represent their conference on the biggest stage in American sports. Fans are always eager to get their hands on the coveted NFC Championship tickets as soon as they become available. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the key details around when and how NFC Championship tickets are sold.
When do NFC Championship tickets go on sale?
NFC Championship tickets typically go on sale to the general public 6-8 weeks prior to the game. However, the exact on-sale date can vary from year to year depending on the teams playing and schedules. Some key factors that influence when tickets are released include:
- If teams playing are pre-determined (division winners) or TBD (wild card weekend)
- The date of the NFC divisional playoff games
- The schedule for any potential college football playoff or title games
For the 2023 NFC Championship slated for January 29th, tickets will likely go on sale in mid-to-late December. Fans can expect an on-sale announcement from the host stadium (likely to be determined after Week 18 of regular season) in late November or early December.
How to get tickets when they go on sale
Here are some tips for fans looking to secure the best NFC Championship tickets right when they go on sale:
Register for pre-sale access
Many NFL teams and stadiums offer pre-sale opportunities for fans on their email lists and season ticket holders. Signing up for team and stadium newsletters in advance gives you a chance at early access. Also, having season tickets for your home team provides pre-sale ticket access should they make the big game.
Know the on-sale time and date
Mark your calendar for the expected on-sale date based on past years. Also, keep an eye on team and stadium websites for the official announcement, which normally comes 2-4 weeks prior. Ensure you know the exact date and time tickets are released.
Use the stadium or ticket provider’s website
For the best selection, go directly to the official stadium or ticket provider’s website right when tickets go live. Secondary sites may not have full inventory immediately. Official team and stadium sites ensure you’re buying verified tickets.
Be ready online with accounts set up
Having accounts created on the ticket site in advance saves precious time during the rush of on-sale. Make sure your payment details, passwords and everything are good to go well before tickets go live.
Don’t panic if tickets sell out right away
Limited quantities may sell out instantly to season ticket holders. But more tickets often are released in the following days and weeks. Maintain persistence and keep checking back leading up to the game.
Ticket prices
Pricing for NFC Championship tickets can vary depending on the participating teams, stadium location and demand. Fans can expect to pay a premium well above regular season games. Some average price ranges include:
Section | Average Price Range* |
---|---|
Lower Level Sideline | $500 – $1,500+ |
Club Level | $400 – $1,000 |
Upper Level End Zone | $200 – $500 |
*Prices can be 2-3x higher for premier matchups and large markets like NY, Boston, Green Bay, etc.
Fans hoping to get the best deals can target upper deck corner seats. However, even the cheapest seats normally run $150+ at minimum. It pays to purchase early during pre-sale and general on-sale periods versus waiting until last minute.
Where to buy from
Here are some of the best places to buy legit NFC Championship tickets:
Official team websites
Places like SeatGeek.com, Ticketmaster.com and TicketExchange by Ticketmaster are the official providers for most NFL teams. Purchasing directly from the team site ensures authenticity.
Stadium ticket offices & box offices
Sometimes teams hold back select ticket inventory for sale directly at the stadium ticket office or box office. Visit in person when tickets go on sale for access to these tickets.
Primary market ticket providers
StubHub.com, VividSeats.com and TickPick.com are the safest and most reputable reseller marketplaces. They offer buyer guarantees and verified tickets.
NFL Ticket Exchange
The NFL Ticket Exchange is the official secondary ticket market of the NFL. Fans can re-sell extra tickets here as well.
Avoiding scams
With NFC Championship tickets in such high demand, fans need to be extra cautious of potential scams. Some tips:
- Never buy from anonymous sellers like Craigslist or social media.
- Be leery of sellers advertising prices well below market value.
- Make sure listed ticket quantities, seat info and pricing add up.
- Use trusted sellers and marketplaces.
- Pay only through safe provider-protected methods, avoid cash transfers.
- Ensure tickets can be easily transferred to your account prior to the event.
Buying from one of the recommended official team or primary marketplace sources is the surest way avoid fraud.
Getting to the game
Along with great tickets, fans need solid travel and accommodations set for the NFC Championship:
Book hotels early
Rooms near the host stadium sell out fast. Reserve hotel rooms as soon as you have tickets. Expect major rate hikes compared to normal weekends.
Browse flight options
Flight prices also skyrocket for the big game. Search for deals on airfare once you have your tickets locked in. Signing up for price alerts can help find sales.
Figure out ground transportation
If driving, make sure to have parking arrangements set. For others, research transit, rideshares, cabs or shuttle options to the stadium. Allow extra time for traffic delays pre-game.
Conclusion
NFC Championship tickets are some of the toughest draws in sports. By registering for pre-sales, knowing on-sale dates, using official ticket sources and booking accommodations early, fans give themselves the best shot at scoring seats. While not cheap, the chance to see your team one step from the Super Bowl live is truly priceless for diehard NFL fans.