What questions to ask about concerts?

Going to a concert can be an exciting experience. However, there are many important questions to ask before buying tickets and attending a show. Having the right information ahead of time can help ensure you have the best concert experience possible.

Where and When is the Concert?

The first key details you’ll want to know are the venue location and show date/time. This info is essential for planning the rest of your concert outing. Be sure to confirm whether the venue is indoors or outdoors, as that can impact what you wear and bring. Also, note the start time so you can plan your arrival accordingly.

Additional Venue Questions

• What is the venue’s address and parking situation?
• Is the venue seating reserved or general admission?
• What are the venue rules on bags, cameras, etc?
• Is the venue accessible for those with disabilities?

Who is Performing?

Obviously you’ll want to know who the main performer or performers are at the concert. But also check if there are any opening acts on the bill. This will give you a better idea of when the headliner will take the stage. Research the performers online too, so you’re familiar with their music before the show.

Additional Performance Questions

• How long is the concert scheduled to last?
• Will there be an encore at the end?
• Are any songs being played live for the first time?

How Much Are Tickets?

Ticket prices can vary greatly depending on the artist, venue, and city. Prices will also fluctuate depending on how far in advance you buy. Be prepared for extra fees too. On top of the base ticket price, there are usually facility, service, and delivery fees.

Additional Ticketing Questions

• Where can tickets be purchased? Online, box office, etc?
• Do I need to join a fan club for presale ticket access?
• Are VIP tickets available for a meet-and-greet?
• What is the refund or exchange policy?

How to Get There?

Figuring out transportation to and from the concert is a big part of your planning. Decide if driving, taking public transit, or using a rideshare app is the best option based on parking, traffic, costs, and other factors. Give yourself plenty of extra time when traveling to account for delays and lines getting into the venue.

Additional Transportation and Arrival Questions

• How far is the nearest public transit stop?
• Is rideshare drop-off/pick-up convenient at this venue?
• Where is guest services if I need help upon arrival?
• Are nearby parking garages cash only or do they accept cards?

What Should I Wear and Bring?

Concert attire and accessories can be an exciting part of the experience for fans. Check the weather and venue rules to help decide what to wear. Bring essentials like your ticket, ID, cash, and phone. But also consider bringing earplugs, portable charger, and a small bag or clutch if allowed.

Additional Attire and Accessory Questions

• Is this concert standing room only or are seats available?
• Are jackets and bags allowed inside the venue?
• What band merchandise is available at the show?
• Will I need sunglasses for an outdoor daytime concert?

Where to Eat and Drink Nearby?

Having a plan for food and drinks before and after the show will make the experience more enjoyable. Search for dining and nightlife spots that are conveniently located near the venue. Some performing arts centers and arenas even have restaurants onsite.

Additional Dining and Nightlife Questions

• What restaurants are within walking distance of the venue?
• Do nearby bars or clubs have concert specials or live music?
• Does the concert venue allow re-entry if I want to eat later?
• Are there ice cream shops or late-night snacks on the way back?

Where to Stay if Traveling from Out of Town?

For concerts that require traveling to another city, booking accommodations should be part of your planning. Compare hotel rates and locations in different neighborhoods. Also consider alternatives like Airbnb, hostels, or even just getting a room for the night via split costs with other fans.

Additional Lodging Questions

• What hotels are closest to the concert venue?
• Is public transit readily available from nearby hotels?
• When is the hotel cancellation deadline if plans change?
• Do any area hotels offer concert ticket packages?

Will the Concert Sell Out?

Popular concerts often sell out quickly in advance. So if it’s a must-see show, you’ll want to act fast to secure tickets. Sign up for pre-sales and fan club offers when available. Consulting sales charts and reports can provide an idea of demand too.

Additional Demand Questions

• How quickly did past shows by this artist sell out?
• What are experts forecasting for ticket sales?
• Will scalped resale tickets be an option later?
• Is there a waitlist available if tickets do sell out?

How to Learn Songs Being Performed?

It’s always more fun at a concert when you already know the songs being played. Listen to the performer’s albums, look up setlists from recent shows, and watch YouTube to familiarize yourself. Streaming services also let you save favorites and create playlists for easy concert prep.

Additional Setlist Prep Questions

• Does the performer change up setlists night to night?
• What are the artist’s biggest hits and fan favorites?
• Will rarities and covers likely be played?
• Are any collaborators joining for special duets?

What Are Other Fans Saying?

Check out concert forums, Facebook event pages, Reddit discussions, and other social media to see what fellow fans are saying. This can provide tips on everything from the best seats to pre-show activities nearby. Connecting with other excited attendees can also enhance the experience.

Additional Fan Question Sources

• Artist-specific and general concert Reddit threads
• Facebook and Instagram comments on the event page
• Artist fan forums and message boards
• Reviews of past tour stops on Songkick or Setlist.fm

Will There Be Special Effects or Surprises?

Many concerts include pyrotechnics, light shows, balloons, confetti, and other special effects to enhance the performance. The artist may also have surprise guests, new song debuts, or an unexpected encore planned. Part of the fun is anticipating what extra excitement is in store.

Additional Surprise Questions

• Have any collaborators been at recent shows for duets?
• Are any special stage or in-crowd setups visible?
• Has the performer been teasing any announcements?
• What antics have happened at past concerts on this tour?

How Early Should I Arrive?

You’ll want to arrive with ample time to park or take transit, get through security lines, find your seats, and more. Extra time also allows you to soak up the pre-concert atmosphere and merch displays. Aim for at least an hour early, if not more for very popular shows that will have long lines.

Additional Arrival Time Considerations

• Is premier parking or VIP entrance available if needed?
• Are opener acts scheduled and when do doors open?
• How strict and thorough is the security screening process?
• Do I need to allow extra time for will call ticket pickup?

What Should I Do If I Can’t Make It?

If your plans change and you can no longer attend, start by checking the event ticket policy. Reselling through the official platform is best when available. You can also try selling to or swapping with friends and other fans online. As a last resort, see if you can donate the tickets to a charitable organization.

Additional Can’t Make It Questions

• What is the last day I can request a refund or credit?
• Are fan ticket exchanges or transfers allowed?
• Can I give tickets to friends and family instead?
• Is there a waitlist or rush tickets on day of show?

Conclusion

Asking the right questions ahead of time makes for the best concert experiences. Confirm all the key details about the when, where, who, and how much. Also look into transportation, attire, accommodations, and eating and drinking options. Prepping with setlists, fan tips, and venue policies will remove stress. Then you can just focus on having an amazing time at the show!