Standing tickets, also known as general admission tickets, allow concertgoers to stand in designated areas of a venue without an assigned seat. With standing tickets, you can usually get closer to the stage than those with seated tickets. However, there are some rules and etiquette to follow when you have general admission or standing room only tickets.
What are standing tickets?
Standing tickets, sometimes called ” GA tickets” or “SRO tickets,” give the ticket holder access to concert venues without an assigned seat. Areas for standing ticket holders are called “pit” areas or “general admission” sections. They are usually located closest to the stage, in front of the seated ticket holders. With standing tickets, concertgoers can get closer to the performers and potentially have better views than those sitting farther back.
Standing tickets are generally less expensive than seated tickets because there are no reserved spots. They allow more fans to experience live performances affordably. Fans are willing to stand for hours to get close to their favorite musicians.
Venues limit the number of standing tickets available for safety reasons. There needs to be enough space for everyone to stand comfortably. When shows sell out, standing room areas reach capacity quickly.
Benefits of standing tickets
There are several advantages to choosing standing tickets:
– Lower price – Standing tickets are usually the most affordable ticket type. Even for high-demand shows, standing tickets will be cheaper than seats farther back.
– Closer to the stage – Fans with standing tickets can get right up near the front of the stage if they arrive early enough. This provides amazing views and proximity to the performers.
– Livelier atmosphere – Standing room sections tend to have more energy as fans dance and sing along. The vibe is more immersive than a seated section.
– Flexibility – You can shift positions and spaces during the show. If someone tall is blocking your view, you can easily move.
– Make new friends – It’s easy to chat and bond with fellow fans around you in a standing room environment. You’re all packed in close together!
Where can you stand with general admission tickets?
Standing tickets give access to designated general admission areas, usually marked “GA” or “standing.” Holders can stand in their assigned sections, but they typically cannot enter seating areas. There are a few venue-specific policies to keep in mind:
Floor/pit standing
Most arena concerts have standing room only areas on the main floor in front of the stage. These “pits” or “GA floors” provide the best views. Fans line up hours before the doors open to get a front row spot.
Lower and upper bowl standing
Larger venues may have standing room sections in the lower and upper bowls behind the floor pit. However, most of the lower and upper sections will be reserved seating. Ushers will check tickets to ensure GA ticket holders stay in the designated standing zones.
Restricted areas
There are often off-limit areas even with standing room tickets. These include:
– VIP and premium zones – Special packages provide early access or reserved spaces. Standing ticket holders cannot access these areas.
– Sound/lighting booths – Equipment areas are restricted to authorized crew.
– Backstage – Production zones are off-limits unless you have an all-access pass.
Seated sections
Standing ticket holders cannot loiter or stand in the aisles of seated sections. Ushers will ask you to return to the GA zones. If a seat is unoccupied, you technically cannot sit there with a standing ticket.
Tips for making the most of general admission
To fully enjoy a concert on standing room tickets, follow these tips:
Arrive early
Get to the venue well before doors open to get a good spot in the GA line. The earlier you arrive, the closer you can get to the stage. Hardcore fans show up many hours in advance. Bring water and snacks and use the restroom before lining up.
No chairs/blankets
Do not bring chairs or blankets to “save” space in standing room. This is considered rude. You must actively stand in your space. Anything left unattended will be removed.
Charge your phone
A charged phone is crucial for meeting up with friends, taking photos/videos, and ordering rides home. Bring an external charger if your phone battery isn’t great.
Wear comfy shoes
You’ll be on your feet for hours, so wear supportive, closed toe shoes. Avoid flimsy flats or brand new shoes. Bring a second pair of shoes in case your feet start hurting.
Stay hydrated
Keep a water bottle with you and drink regularly. Venues may allow factory-sealed water into standing areas. Take bathroom breaks periodically to stay hydrated.
Protect your hearing
The sound levels near the stage can reach dangerous volumes. Wear earplugs for protection. Look for musician grade earplugs that lower decibels while preserving sound quality.
Standing tickets etiquette
There’s concert etiquette to follow with general admission tickets to keep the environment fun for everyone:
Don’t push or cut in line
Wait your turn and don’t cut into the GA line ahead of others. Pushing to get closer is unsafe and will upset those who arrived earlier.
No saving spots
Don’t try to save space for friends who show up later. The line is first come, first served. If you leave, you lose your place.
Keep aisles clear
Standing in aisles causes fire hazards and blocks foot traffic. Don’t camp out in walkways.
Respect space
Avoid invading others’ personal space. Maintain self-awareness and give those around you room to move freely.
Watch your belongings
Crowds attract pickpockets. Keep valuables secured. Don’t set down phones, wallets or merch unattended.
No moshing or crowd surfing
Unless it’s specifically permitted, don’t mosh, crowd surf or stage dive. This endangers others in tight quarters.
Get home safely
Have a plan for getting out of the area safely after the show. Use the buddy system or schedule your rideshare/transit ahead of time.
FAQ about standing tickets
Are standing tickets good?
Standing tickets let you get close to the band for a lower cost. If you don’t mind being on your feet, standing tickets provide an immersive concert experience.
What time should you arrive for standing tickets?
Arrive at least 2-3 hours before the doors open if you want a front row standing spot. Later arrivals will be farther back. The earliest fans wait over 12+ hours for hot shows.
Can you sit with standing tickets?
Technically, no. Standing tickets permit standing only in designated GA zones. You cannot sit in the aisles or occupy empty seats. However, many still sit once the show starts if space permits.
How early do standing tickets sell out?
For high demand concerts, standing tickets often sell out immediately. Even with pre-sales, they go fast since they are limited. Buy standing tickets the moment they are available to avoid missing out.
What’s the difference between standing and general admission?
Standing room only and general admission (GA) tickets are the same. Both terms mean you can access the venue without an assigned seat. You stand in special sections near the stage.
Conclusion
Standing tickets offer concertgoers an affordable way to get close to the action. While you won’t have an assigned seat, general admission areas put you near the music and energy. Arrive early, obey venue policies, and follow crowd etiquette to fully enjoy standing room only shows. With the right preparation, standing tickets can provide an epic concert experience.
