Navigating the Ticket Buying Mishaps: A Fan's Perspective from the Inside
Have you ever faced the frustration of buying tickets to a sporting event or concert, only to find out that online purchases are non-refundable and that inadequate systems or technology are not valid reasons? As a seasoned professional in the ticketing industry, I can shed some light on how ticket availability works from the inside, providing valuable insights to make your next purchase smoother.
The Fan's Perspective
As a fan, my goal is to get access to the best seats possible. Unfortunately, the system can be unpredictable and frustrating. Third-party ticket sales sites are a common source of annoyance for box offices.
Insight from the Box Office
Your local venue's Box Office likely feels the same way I do. We hate third-party sales sites. My venue, like many others, does not sell directly to ticketing agencies such as Stub Hub or Ace Tickets. We prefer to give fans access to the seats, which helps to avoid problems later.
How Ticket Availability Works
When your favorite band, let's call them the Spider Monkeys, announces a tour, the first place you should look is their official website. Signing up for the mail list can add you to their email list and potentially give you great seats from the inventory set aside for this very purpose. Another tried-and-true method is to visit the box office directly. By doing so, you can be there during the on-sale window and likely acquire tickets with minimal or no fees.
Understanding the On-Sale Process
When Ticket Master goes on sale, the actual box office and Ticket Master are pulling from the same inventory. This means that while you are in line, people can and will order tickets through Ticket Master at the same time. Keeping this in mind, it's important to understand the dynamics of the ticketing process.
Opening Before Ticket Master
Visitors sometimes can get a head start on the on-sale window. Some box offices may open a few minutes before Ticket Master to sell to waiting fans. This can be a good strategy, but be prepared, as spots can fill up quickly.
Inventory Management
A small portion of the inventory is reserved for the band and promoter. This is to ensure that each band member has access to seats for their friends and family. In reality, the amount held is quite minimal. However, if you visit the box office a couple of hours before the show, there is a good chance these seats will be released. This is because the promoter does not want to eat into the profits by holding on to them.
Conclusion
Understanding the ticket buying process and how it works from the inside can significantly influence your success in acquiring tickets. Whether you're buying directly from the box office or waiting for an on-sale window, knowing the dynamics can help you make informed decisions and secure the best seats possible.
FAQs
Do third-party ticketing sites guarantee better tickets?
No, third-party sites are often more expensive and can lead to issues with availability. The best seats are often found directly through the artist's website or the venue's box office.
Are there any tips for standing in line at the box office during an on-sale event?
Yes, arrive early, be patient, and be prepared. Come with any necessary identification and be ready to show enthusiasm for the event. This can help ensure you have a place in the queue when tickets go on sale.
How can I avoid being caught in the technical difficulties of online ticket sales?
Consider using your mobile device or a kiosk to make the purchase, as these tend to have fewer technical issues. Additionally, call the box office customer service line for assistance if you encounter problems.