Getting to a concert extra early may seem like a waste of time or a big hassle, but it can make your concert experience so much better. The old saying “the early bird gets the worm” is equally true when it comes to what time to show up for a show. Getting there early can mean the difference in getting your preferred spot, or even getting a chance to chat with the band. Here are the six reasons I always get to concerts early.
1. You can scope out the best spots
When it comes to concerts, for many people, it’s all about finding the perfect spot. Whether you love to be right at the barricade every time, or prefer a center balcony, where you stand can make a huge difference in your concert experience. If you have a general admission ticket, the only way to guarantee getting the perfect spot it to show up early, but getting that perfect view makes the long wait worth it.
2. If you plan to take pictures, you can make sure you have the right settings
Whether you are at a show with just your phone or a professional camera, venue lighting can be tricky to work with. Getting to a show early gives you a chance to check the settings on your phone or camera and to take a few test shots. It may seem like a small thing, but once the band is out, you won’t want to look away to try to figure out camera settings.
3. You can check out the merch booth early
You’ve searched online for pictures of the merch, and you know exactly what you want, but if you show up late, you might miss out. Most bands have a limited amount of merch and if it’s close to the end of their tour, they may be running low. Getting to a show early means you will be one of the first people to check out the merch table, and you will be able to avoid the crazy long line at the end of the night.
4. There is a possibility of meeting the band
If you get to a show extra early, like before the band even gets there early, you have the potential to meet the band! Most bands love and appreciate their fans’ support and love to have the chance to meet with them. If you happen to be waiting outside the venue early, it is very possible that when the band arrives, they will stop to say a quick hello and thank you for the support.
5. You can meet new friends
Shyness seems to disappear for me at concerts. You already know you have at least one thing in common with everyone there: you love the band you’re about to see. While you’re waiting for the doors to open or for the band to come on stage, chat with the person next to you! Ask if they’ve seen the band before or if they have a favorite song or member. I met one of my best friends at a Struts concert, while waiting for the band to come out, and we’ve remained friends and been to countless shows together since then, in three different states.
6. You might just find a new favorite band
Last, but certainly not least, as it’s actually one of the best reasons on the list, getting to concerts early means you are there in time to see the opening acts. This gives you a chance to learn about new bands you may never have discovered otherwise. At the moment, two of my favorite bands are bands I learned about by seeing them as opening acts. I first heard The Struts when they were opening for Twenty One Pilots, and I’ve recently discovered a new favorite, Spirit Animal, while seeing them open for The Struts. These are bands I probably never would have been exposed to if I hadn’t shown up early. I know the band you care about most is the headliner, but you never know what hidden gems you might find in an opening act.
Whether you’re trying to snag a limited edition t-shirt, scout out the perfect spot, or find a cool new band to jam out to, getting to a concert early is definitely the way to go!
Photos by author Garnette Ransone