When buying tickets for a concert or other event through Ticketmaster, you’ll often see two different times listed – one for when doors open, and another for when the show starts. This can understandably lead to some confusion about when you actually need to arrive at the venue. In this article, we’ll break down what the door time means on Ticketmaster and how early you should plan to get to the event.
What does the door time mean on a Ticketmaster ticket?
The door time listed on Ticketmaster tickets indicates when the venue will open its doors to begin letting concert-goers into the building. This is usually 30 minutes to 1 hour before the advertised start time of the show. The doors open time gives attendees time to enter the venue, find their seats, visit the restrooms, buy merchandise, and get settled in before the performance begins.
Some key things to know about the doors open time on Ticketmaster tickets:
- It is set by the venue and/or event organizer, not Ticketmaster.
- It may vary between different shows at the same venue.
- Doors will usually open at the listed time, but could open slightly earlier or later.
- The doors open time only applies to the main entrance gates; special VIP entrances may open earlier.
- Make sure to check your specific ticket for the doors time for that event.
How early should I arrive for the doors open time?
To ensure you get inside in time for the doors open time listed on your Ticketmaster tickets, plan to arrive at the venue 60-90 minutes ahead of the listed door time. This gives you a buffer for travel delays, parking, and waiting in line outside the entrance. Cutoff times for when you need to be in line vary between venues, but arriving 90 minutes early is a safe bet.
If you want to be among the very first inside, plan to arrive 2+ hours before door time. For extremely popular shows that are likely to sell out and have long lines, some fans may show up 4 or more hours early to get a spot at the front of the queue.
Tips for arriving ahead of doors open time
- Check traffic and parking information to accurately budget time needed.
- Bring entertainment – books, music, games – to make waiting in line more enjoyable.
- Dress appropriately for the weather if you’ll be queuing outdoors.
- Pack snacks and water to refuel while you wait.
- Use the restroom before getting in line – facilities may be hard to access once in line.
- Follow venue rules about camping out, chairs, etc. for the queue.
When should you plan to arrive after doors open?
Some concert-goers prefer to skip the lines and arrive closer to show time. As a rule of thumb, you should arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes after the doors open time on your Ticketmaster ticket. This will give you sufficient time to park, enter the building, find your seat, and get situated before the performance starts.
Here are some tips for timing your arrival if you don’t plan to enter right at doors open:
- 45-60 minutes after doors is a good target if you want to arrive when the crowds are lighter but still have plenty of time.
- Arriving 15-30 minutes after doors gives you the minimum leeway; be prepared for some rushed logistics getting inside.
- For reserved seating shows, arriving just 5-10 minutes before showtime is doable since your seat will be waiting.
- If parking or entry lines are long, err on the side of coming earlier rather than risk missing the start.
- Account for extra time getting through security at venues with bag checks and metal detectors.
Keep in mind the opening act may start promptly at the advertised showtime, so arriving too close to that risks missing part of their performance.
When should you absolutely not arrive?
To ensure you don’t miss any of the event, avoid timing your arrival during the 15-30 minute window right before the advertised show start time. This is when lines and crowds will be at their peak, making it difficult to enter quickly and find your seat.
Likewise, you want to avoid arriving after the show has started, as you may have trouble getting to your seat or be prohibited from entering mid-show by the venue. If the doors are still open and you have a ticket, you can generally enter between sets.
What happens if you arrive late?
If you arrive after the doors have closed for the event, you may or may not be allowed inside, at the discretion of the venue. Some policies for late arrivals include:
- You won’t be permitted entry until there is a break between acts.
- You can enter but will have to stand in the back or watch from a screen in the lobby.
- You must wait to enter until an act break and may need to show your ticket stub to re-enter.
- If the show is general admission, you may not get a good spot if you show up late.
Before the show, check with the venue about their policies to avoid surprises. If you anticipate a late arrival, you can call the box office ahead of time and see if accommodations can be made.
Should you ever show up hours late?
Generally, no – arriving hours after the advertised start time means you will miss significant portions of the concert and may not even be allowed inside the venue. The only exception would be festivals or multi-act events lasting an entire day, where showing up in the evening could still allow you to see later headliners.
However, unless you have specifically purchased a partial-day festival ticket for the evening only, arriving excessively late is never recommended. You’ll still miss early acts which were part of the reason you bought tickets, and have no guarantee you’ll even make it through the entrance gates after doors have long since closed.
Key takeaways
- The doors open time on Ticketmaster indicates when entry to the venue begins.
- Arrive 60-90 minutes before doors if you want to be among the first inside.
- 30 minutes after doors is the minimum recommended arrival to still get settled before showtime.
- Avoid arriving right before show start when crowds peak.
- Late arrival risks not being allowed in or missing part of the show.
By carefully timing your arrival around the doors open time listed on your Ticketmaster tickets, you can maximize your concert experience and minimize hassle getting into the event. Allow plenty of buffer room in your plans, and scope out the venue details in advance so you can arrive at the optimal time to enjoy the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I arrive at the exact doors open time on my ticket?
You do not need to arrive right at the stated doors open time – you can arrive earlier to get in the front of the line, or later to skip long wait times. Arriving at the exact listed time runs the risk of getting stuck in the peak rush of people trying to enter.
What if I’m running late to arrive after doors open?
If you’re running behind, call the venue box office to explain the situation. They may be able to hold your tickets at will call to streamline your entry. If you arrive late, politely ask staff if you can still enter and be prepared to potentially miss part of the show.
Should I wait until after opening acts finish before I go in?
Don’t intentionally arrive after opening acts are done, as you’ll miss part of the concert experience. The start time on your ticket includes all advertised performances. Arrive in time to see the opening sets and avoid paying for a show you don’t fully attend.
What if my tickets don’t list a door time?
If your Ticketmaster tickets don’t specify a doors open time, call the venue to confirm when entry begins. Without an exact time, plan to arrive 90 minutes before show start to ensure you get in. The venue website may also have estimated door times.
Can I enter the venue earlier than the listed door time?
Typically, no – doors will not open earlier than the advertised time. Special VIP ticket holders may get early access. Otherwise, you usually cannot enter before the scheduled door time even if you arrive extremely early.
Conclusion
Timing your arrival is an important part of having the best possible concert experience. While the doors open time on Ticketmaster tickets provides a starting point, also factor in the venue’s policies, when you actually want to enter, and enough buffer time to park, get tickets, find seats, etc. With smart planning based on the door time for your specific event, you can settle in with minimal stress and focus on enjoying the show.
