Getting access to presale tickets for popular concerts and events through Ticketmaster can be a great way to secure seats before the general public. Presale codes allow you to purchase tickets earlier than the general onsale date. However, knowing when you’ll receive your presale code can be confusing. Here are some tips on when and how you’ll get your Ticketmaster presale code.
How Presales Work
Ticketmaster presales allow access to tickets before the general public. Presales are usually available to certain groups like fan club members, credit card holders, Spotify listeners, or venue mailing list subscribers. Each presale has a specific promo code needed to access tickets.
Codes are released ahead of the presale date through various channels like email, text alerts, social media, or fan club portals. Presale code distribution methods can vary between events. Typically, presale codes go out 1-3 days before the presale begins. Once you have a code, you can use it to purchase tickets during the specified presale window before the general onsale.
When You’ll Get Your Presale Code
The timing of when you’ll receive a presale code depends on where it’s coming from. Here are some common sources for Ticketmaster presale codes and when they are released:
- Artist or Venue Presales – 1-3 days before the presale. Codes distributed via email, text, social media, or mailing lists.
- Spotify Presales – Codes sent via email to Spotify listeners 1 day before the presale.
- Fan Club Presales – Up to a week before the presale through the fan club’s portal.
- Credit Card Presales (Citi, Chase, AMEX) – Typically sent via email 1 week before the presale.
- Promoter Presales – 1-3 days before the presale via various channels.
- Radio Station Presales – Sent through text alerts or posted on the station’s website 1-3 days before.
The earlier you sign up for presale opportunities – like joining a fan club or venue mailing list – the sooner you may get access to a code. For credit card and streaming platform presales, you need to sign up with enough time for your account to recognized for presale access eligibility.
Getting a Presale Code
Here are some tips for securing a presale code before the big onsale date:
Join Artist Fan Clubs and Mailing Lists
Artist fan clubs and venue mailing lists should be your first stop to get presale access. Sign up well in advance of a tour announcement to get registered in time. Fan club presales usually have the most ticket inventory available.
Follow Social Media Accounts
Following the social media accounts of the artist, venue, and promoter can help you stay on top of presale announcements. Turn on notifications so you don’t miss any presale details.
Stream the Artist on Spotify
Spotify often sponsors presales for top artists. Make sure to stream the artist regularly in the months leading up to a tour, especially any new releases. This boosts your chances of getting a Spotify presale offer.
Use Presale-Eligible Credit Cards
Having a Citi, Chase, or American Express card can unlock presale ticket offers. Be sure to register your card with the bank’s entertainment access program.
Sign Up for Artist and Venue Newsletters
Look for newsletter sign-up options on the artist’s official website and at the venue’s website. These email lists frequently distribute presale codes.
Follow Reputable Presale Code Accounts
There are Twitter accounts and websites dedicated to sharing verified presale code info for upcoming events. Follow them to stay in the loop.
Wait for Presale Announcements
Often presale details aren’t shared until 1-3 days before the presales begin. Check social media and your inboxes regularly as the onsale date approaches.
When Are Presales?
Presale windows typically open 1-7 days before the public onsale date. Here are some common presale windows:
| Presale Type | Presale Window |
|---|---|
| Artist Fan Club Presale | 5-7 days before onsale |
| Venue Presale | 5-6 days before onsale |
| Spotify Presale | 2-3 days before onsale |
| Credit Card Presale | 1-2 days before onsale |
| Facebook Presale | 1 day before onsale |
| Radio Presale | 1 day before onsale |
| General Presale | 1 day before onsale |
However, each event can vary, so check the specific presale details. Most presales run for 1-2 days, ending shortly before the public onsale.
Onsale Dates
The general public onsale date is when tickets go up for sale to everyone. This usually occurs 2-4 weeks after a tour announcement. Mark your calendars for the onsale to take place right at the scheduled time. On high demand shows, tickets can sell out in seconds!
Buying Presale Tickets
Here are some tips for getting presale tickets:
Use the Presale Code
You’ll need to enter the specific presale code to access tickets. Presale codes are usually 12-20 characters long containing letters and numbers. Make sure to enter the code exactly as provided.
Search for the Presale Listing
Presales may not be visible on Ticketmaster until the presale window opens. On the presale start time, search directly for the event and look for a “Presale” listing.
Prep Your Account
Register for a Ticketmaster account and enter in your payment details beforehand so you can checkout fast once tickets are in your cart.
Use the Ticketmaster App
The Ticketmaster app can help bypass website traffic and lag time issues. Download the app and login ahead of the presale.
Be Ready Right at Start Time
Load Ticketmaster 10-15 minutes early and refresh right at the presale start time. Presales typically open at 10am local venue time if unspecified.
Act Quickly
Have seating sections picked out in advance and don’t hesitate to checkout. The best tickets go fast, so secure them as soon as you spot them available.
Try Again If Needed
If tickets seem sold out, keep refreshing as more inventory can open up over the presale window. Don’t give up too quickly!
Getting Help with Presales
If you need assistance securing presale codes or tickets, here are some options:
Contact Fan Club Support
If you have issues accessing an artist fan club presale, reach out to the fan club help desk for troubleshooting.
Call Your Credit Card Company
For credit card presale problems, you can call the customer service number on the back of your card for help.
Reach Out on Social Media
Many artists, venues, and Ticketmaster all offer customer service via Twitter and Facebook. Tag them with your issue.
Check Ticketmaster Help Articles
Ticketmaster’s website has detailed help articles that may address any errors or problems you encounter.
Use Ticketmaster’s Chatbot
Ticketmaster has an AI chatbot on its website to provide quick answers for common presale and ticket issues.
Call Ticketmaster
As a last resort, you can call Ticketmaster directly at (800) 653-8000 if you require any presale assistance.
Can’t Get Presale Tickets?
If you miss out on presale tickets, don’t fret yet. Here are some options to still get tickets:
Try Again During Other Presales
Often multiple presales occur for hot shows. Jump on any other presales you have access too.
Queue Up on Onsale Day
Be ready when the general onsale starts too. Have accounts prepped on Ticketmaster and other ticket sites.
Leverage Ticket Releases
Tickets can get released over time as holds expire. Check back leading up to the event.
Buy Resell Tickets
Use secure resale sites like StubHub where fans can resell extra tickets. Prices may be higher though.
Attend In Person
For local events, you can go to the venue box office on the onsale date to purchase tickets there.
Consider Other Locations
Look at buying tickets for shows at other tour stop locations that may have less demand.
Conclusion
While getting access to presales requires planning and effort, it can really pay off to beat the rush. Sign up for presales beginning one week before onsale dates and keep chasing down codes. Follow your presale retailer’s instructions closely when it’s time to purchase tickets. Persistence and preparation will be key to getting the best seats for your must-see concerts and shows. With some luck and these tips, you should have a great shot at scoring tickets during presales. Let the countdown to the show begin!
