How to Find Cheap Concert Tickets in 2024: A Complete Guide
How to Find Cheap Concert Tickets in 2024: A Complete Guide
Blog Article
Going to Cheap Concert Tickets is an unforgettable experience, but the rising cost of tickets can sometimes make it hard to enjoy your favorite artists live. Fortunately, with the right strategies, you can find cheap concert tickets without sacrificing quality. This guide will walk you through the best ways to secure affordable tickets, from using trusted platforms to leveraging discounts and timing your purchase wisely.
Why Concert Ticket Prices Are Rising
Over the years, ticket prices for major concerts have increased, largely due to production costs, demand, and venue size. Popular artists can sell out arenas quickly, driving up prices on both primary and secondary ticket markets. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable options—there are many ways to secure discount concert tickets if you know where to look.
Top Ways to Find Cheap Concert Tickets
1. Use Official Ticket Websites Early
One of the easiest ways to get cheap concert tickets is by purchasing them directly from the artist’s or venue’s official website as soon as they go on sale. Many events offer early-bird pricing or presale tickets for fans who act quickly. Sign up for newsletters and notifications from your favorite artists or ticket platforms to be the first to know when tickets go live.
2. Take Advantage of Presales
Presales are often available to fan clubs, credit card holders, or email subscribers. These presales give you early access to tickets before the general public. Credit cards like American Express or Chase often offer presale opportunities, so check if your card provides these perks.
3. Use Ticket Resale Platforms
When primary tickets sell out, resale platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats become key sources for finding concert tickets. While these platforms can sometimes have inflated prices, they also offer last-minute deals if sellers are trying to offload extra tickets closer to the event date. Use the filtering tools to sort tickets by price to find the best deals.
4. Look for Discounts and Promo Codes
Many ticketing websites offer discount codes or special promotions, especially around major sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Websites such as Groupon and Ticketmaster occasionally provide deals on concert tickets. Also, make sure to check social media platforms and artist fan pages where discount codes are sometimes shared.
5. Buy Tickets Last Minute
Though it may sound risky, purchasing concert tickets at the last minute can sometimes lead to substantial savings. Ticket holders often resell their tickets at a reduced price in the days or hours leading up to the event, especially if they can no longer attend. Use apps like Gametime or StubHub to find discounted last-minute tickets.
6. Choose Less Popular Concert Dates
Ticket prices can vary dramatically depending on the date and time of the concert. Shows scheduled for weekdays or during off-peak seasons often have cheaper tickets than weekend performances. If you're flexible with your dates, aim for a midweek concert for better deals.
7. Opt for General Admission or Lawn Seats
Many concerts offer general admission (GA) or lawn seating tickets, which are typically much cheaper than reserved seats. These options may not provide the best view of the stage, but they allow you to enjoy the concert atmosphere for a fraction of the price.
8. Attend Smaller Venues or Local Shows
Major concerts by big-name artists tend to come with hefty price tags. If you’re open to discovering new music, consider attending concerts at smaller venues, where ticket prices are often much lower. Local artists and smaller touring acts frequently perform in intimate settings, providing a more affordable and personal concert experience.
9. Group Ticket Discounts
Many venues and ticket sellers offer discounts for bulk purchases. If you’re attending a concert with a group of friends or family, check if the venue provides any group ticket pricing options. Buying tickets in a group could save you money per ticket.
10. Follow Artists and Venues on Social Media
Social media is a valuable tool for finding out about flash sales or exclusive ticket offers. Follow your favorite artists, venues, and ticket platforms on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to stay in the loop on the latest deals. Sometimes artists release promo codes or additional ticket availability exclusively to their social media followers.
Best Websites for Cheap Concert Tickets
1. StubHub
StubHub is one of the most well-known ticket resale platforms, offering tickets for concerts, sports events, and theater shows. With its user-friendly interface and large inventory, you can find a wide range of ticket prices. StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee ensures that you receive valid tickets, giving you peace of mind when purchasing from resellers.
2. SeatGeek
SeatGeek is a popular platform for comparing ticket prices across various sellers. It uses a Deal Score system that helps you identify the best-priced tickets relative to their value. SeatGeek is especially useful for finding last-minute tickets at discounted rates.
3. Vivid Seats
Another trusted resale marketplace, Vivid Seats offers tickets for a variety of concerts and events. The site often features promotional deals, and its 100% Buyer Guarantee ensures that your tickets are valid and delivered on time. Vivid Seats also has a rewards program that lets you earn credit towards future ticket purchases.
4. Gametime
For spontaneous concert-goers, Gametime is an excellent app that specializes in last-minute ticket deals. It’s known for offering tickets at reduced prices just hours before an event starts. The app also provides real-time updates on ticket availability, making it ideal for finding cheap tickets on the go.
5. Ticketmaster
As one of the largest ticketing platforms, Ticketmaster offers both primary tickets and verified resale options. While Ticketmaster’s prices can be higher, the site regularly features flash sales, presale tickets, and discounted tickets for selected events.
Additional Tips for Saving on Concert Tickets
1. Avoid Ticket Fees
Many ticketing platforms charge service fees or handling fees that can add up. To avoid these, consider buying tickets directly from the venue box office. In some cases, you can also find promotional offers that waive these fees during specific sales events.
2. Set Ticket Alerts
Most ticketing websites and apps offer the option to set up price alerts for specific events. This way, you’ll get notified when ticket prices drop, giving you the opportunity to buy at the best possible time. Platforms like SeatGeek and Ticketmaster make it easy to track price changes.
3. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs
Many credit card companies offer cashback or reward points for purchases made on ticketing platforms. If you frequently attend concerts, consider using a card that offers bonuses or points for entertainment purchases.
4. Be Wary of Scams
When purchasing from secondary ticket markets, make sure you’re buying from reputable sellers. Stick to platforms that offer buyer protection, such as StubHub, SeatGeek, or Vivid Seats, to avoid fraudulent tickets.
Conclusion
Attending concerts doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right approach, you can score cheap concert tickets without compromising on the experience. By utilizing trusted resale platforms, taking advantage of presales, and knowing when to buy, you can enjoy your favorite artists live without overspending.