How to Save on Concert Tickets in Denver

Denver, Colorado, is one of the most vibrant music cities in the United States, consistently ranking among the top markets for live performances. From the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre to the modern Ball Arena and the intimate Bluebird Theater, the city hosts an eclectic mix of national tours, indie acts, and local legends throughout the year. But with demand outpacing supplyespecially for high-profile artistsconcert tickets often sell out within minutes and command premium prices on secondary markets. The good news? Saving on concert tickets in Denver is not only possible, its achievable with the right strategy, timing, and tools. This comprehensive guide walks you through proven, actionable methods to reduce your concert spending without sacrificing the experience. Whether youre a casual fan looking to catch your favorite band or a dedicated concertgoer planning your annual schedule, these techniques will help you secure tickets at lower prices, avoid hidden fees, and maximize value every time.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Ticket Release Calendar

One of the most overlooked aspects of saving on concert tickets is timing. Artists and promoters follow predictable release schedules. Most major tours announce dates 36 months in advance, with presales occurring 2472 hours before public on-sale. Public on-sales typically happen on Fridays at 10 a.m. Mountain Time. By understanding this rhythm, you can plan ahead and avoid last-minute panic buying, which often leads to paying inflated prices on resale platforms.

Start by subscribing to artist newsletters and following official social media accounts. Many artists offer exclusive presale codes to fans who sign up directly. For example, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Coldplay have historically provided access to presales through their fan clubs or email lists. Even if youre not a superfan, signing up for newsletters from venues like Red Rocks, Mission Ballroom, or Ogden Theatre can unlock early access. Some venues also partner with credit card companies (like American Express or Chase) to offer presalescheck their websites for Verified Fan or Cardholder Presale programs.

2. Set Up Alerts for Price Drops and Restocks

Ticket inventory is dynamic. Even if a show appears sold out, tickets often reappear due to cancellations, order holds expiring, or returns. Use automated tools to monitor these changes. Platforms like TickPick, SeatGeek, and StubHub offer price-drop alerts. Set up notifications for your desired event, artist, and price range. For example, if youre targeting $75 tickets to a local indie band at the Bluebird Theater, set an alert for under $80. These platforms will email or push notifications when tickets matching your criteria become available.

Additionally, refresh the official venue website daily in the 72 hours following the on-sale date. Many fans buy multiple tickets and later sell extras on the primary sites resale section. Unlike secondary marketplaces, these resale tickets often come with no additional fees and are priced closer to face value. Red Rocks, for instance, has a Ticket Exchange feature that allows original purchasers to resell tickets directly through the venues platformeliminating third-party markups.

3. Target Weekday and Off-Peak Shows

Concerts held on weekdaysespecially Tuesdays and Wednesdaysare significantly cheaper than weekend shows. Most popular artists schedule weekend performances to maximize attendance, but smaller tours, local bands, and opening acts often play midweek. These shows have lower demand, which means lower prices and better seating options.

Check the calendars of venues like the Oriental Theater, Gothic Theatre, and Summit Music Hall. Many of these venues host midweek performances by touring indie, folk, and alternative artists who dont command stadium prices. For example, a Tuesday night show by a rising folk-rock band at the Gothic Theatre might cost $45, while the same artist playing Saturday at Red Rocks could be $120. Weekday shows also offer easier parking, shorter lines, and less crowdingadding to the overall value.

4. Buy Tickets in Person at the Box Office

While online purchases dominate, buying directly at the venue box office can save you money. Online ticketing platforms add service fees that can increase the ticket price by 1530%. These fees include processing, convenience, and facility charges. When you purchase in person, you pay only the face value.

Many Denver venues have box offices open during business hours, even on non-show days. For example, the Ogden Theatres box office opens at 12 p.m. Monday through Friday. Arrive early on the day of the on-sale to secure your spot in line. Bring cash or a debit card to avoid credit card surcharges. Some venues, like the Bluebird Theater, even offer a cash discount for in-person purchasesthough this isnt always advertised, its worth asking.

Pro tip: Combine this with presales. If youre eligible for a presale code, use it to get early access and then buy in person to avoid online fees entirely.

5. Leverage Local Radio and Community Events

Denvers music scene is deeply rooted in local media. Radio stations like 93.3 KBCO, 104.3 The Fan, and 102.5 The Voice regularly run contests for free or discounted concert tickets. Tune in during morning or afternoon drive times, follow their social media pages, and participate in text-in or online entry contests. These are often legitimate giveaways with no purchase necessary, as required by law.

Additionally, community organizations like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, local arts councils, and even libraries occasionally host ticket lotteries or partner with promoters to distribute complimentary passes. Check the Denver Public Librarys events calendar or visit the Denver Arts & Venues website. Some nonprofits also offer discounted tickets to low-income residents through programs like Arts for Alleligibility varies, but its worth exploring if you qualify.

6. Use Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

Many Denver venues offer discounted tickets to specific demographics. Students can often receive 1020% off with a valid .edu email or student ID. Military personnel (active, veteran, or reserve) may qualify for similar discounts at venues like Ball Arena, Pepsi Center, and Red Rocks. Seniors (typically 60+) can find reduced pricing on select shows, particularly at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

These discounts are rarely advertised on the main ticket page. Look for a Special Offers or Discounts link at the bottom of the venues website. If you cant find it, call the box office directly and ask. Some venues, like the Paramount Theatre, have dedicated discount lines for military and senior patrons. Always bring valid identification when picking up tickets.

7. Bundle Tickets with Travel or Accommodations

If youre traveling to Denver for a concert, consider bundling your ticket with lodging or transportation. Some hotels near Red Rocks or downtown venues partner with promoters to offer concert packages. These bundles include a room, parking, and discounted ticketsall for less than booking separately.

Search for Denver concert hotel package on travel sites like Expedia, Booking.com, or even the venues official site. For example, during the annual Denver International Jazz Festival, several downtown hotels offer room + ticket deals. Even if youre not traveling far, consider carpooling with friends to split parking fees or use shared ride services to avoid parking costs at popular venues.

8. Attend Openers and Local Acts

One of the most effective ways to save is to see the opening act. Many fans arrive late, missing the support band entirely. But local and emerging artists often deliver unforgettable performances at a fraction of the cost. For example, seeing a rising country artist opening for a headliner at the Fillmore Denver might cost $25$35, while the main act is $150+.

Follow local music blogs like Westword, Denver Music Scene, and 303 Magazine. They regularly spotlight up-and-coming bands playing at smaller venues like Syntax Physic Opera, Cervantes Masterpiece, and The Marquis Theater. These shows rarely sell out, and tickets often remain under $40. Plus, youre more likely to meet the artists after the showsomething rarely possible at large arenas.

9. Avoid Secondary Market Markups by Timing Your Purchase

Secondary marketplaces like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and Ticketmaster Resale are convenientbut expensive. Prices spike within 48 hours of the event as desperate buyers compete for last-minute seats. The best strategy? Wait until 2448 hours before the show. Sellers who cant attend often slash prices to recoup costs. This is especially true for shows in inclement weather or when the artist has a smaller following.

Use price trend tools like TickPicks Price History graph or SeatGeeks Deal Score to identify when prices are at their lowest. For instance, a $180 ticket to a Kendrick Lamar show at Ball Arena might drop to $110 on the day of the concert if the weather forecast predicts rain. Dont be afraid to waitits one of the most reliable ways to save hundreds of dollars.

10. Join Fan Clubs and Loyalty Programs

Many artists and venues have loyalty programs that reward repeat attendees. For example, Red Rocks offers a Red Rocks Club membership that gives early access to tickets, exclusive merch discounts, and invitations to soundcheck events. Similarly, fan clubs for bands like The Lumineers or Brandi Carlile often provide presale codes, contest entries, and member-only pricing.

These programs are typically free to join. Visit the artists official website and look for a Fan Club or Mailing List link. Even if youre not a diehard fan, joining a few key lists can open doors to discounts you wont find anywhere else. Some fan clubs even offer group ticket dealsbuy 4, get the 5th freeideal for friends or family outings.

Best Practices

1. Always Compare Prices Across Platforms

Never settle for the first price you see. Compare the same ticket across the venues official site, Ticketmaster, StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats. Fees vary widely: Ticketmaster often adds $15$25 in service charges, while SeatGeek may bundle fees into a single all-in price. Use browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten to automatically apply coupon codes at checkout.

2. Avoid Premium Seating Upsells

When purchasing online, youll often be prompted to upgrade to VIP, Platinum, or Enhanced Experience tickets. These packages can cost 23x more and include extras like merch or meet-and-greets you may not want. Decline these offers unless you specifically desire them. Stick to general admission or reserved seats at face value.

3. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

Many credit cards offer cashback on entertainment purchases. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Citi Double Cash give 25% back on concert tickets. Use these cards when buying tickets to earn rewards you can apply to future events. Also, consider using cashback portals like Rakuten or Ibotta when purchasing through official ticketing sites.

4. Buy Multiple Tickets at Once

Many venues offer group discounts for purchases of 4 or more tickets. Even if youre not going with a group, consider buying extra tickets and reselling them later on the venues official resale platform. This can offset your cost entirely. For example, buying four $60 tickets ($240 total) and selling one for $55 reduces your net cost to $185nearly 25% savings.

5. Check for Free Admission Events

Not all concerts require payment. Denver hosts free outdoor concerts throughout the year, especially in summer. Events like Concerts in the Park at City Park, Live on the Lawn at the Denver Botanic Gardens, and Free Fridays at the Denver Art Museum often feature local and regional artists. Bring a blanket, snacks, and friendsand enjoy a full concert experience for $0.

6. Be Flexible with Dates and Artists

If your favorite artist isnt coming to Denver this season, explore similar acts. Fans of Pearl Jam might enjoy a show by The Black Keys or The War on Drugs. Fans of Taylor Swift might love Halsey or Lorde. Use music discovery apps like Spotify or Bandcamp to find artists with similar sounds. Youll often find equally compelling performances at lower price points.

7. Avoid Scalper Bots and Third-Party Resellers

Scalper bots purchase tickets in bulk the moment they go on sale, then resell them at inflated prices. Avoid platforms like Viagogo or unauthorized resellers that lack transparency. Stick to official resale channels like the venues own ticket exchange or verified partners like Ticketmasters Transfer feature. These platforms verify seller legitimacy and cap markups.

8. Print or Save Digital Tickets Early

Many venues now use mobile entry only. If youre buying last-minute, ensure your ticket is loaded into your phones wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) before leaving home. Some venues charge $10$20 to reprint paper tickets at the box office. Save your tickets early to avoid last-minute fees or technical issues.

Tools and Resources

Official Venue Websites

Always start here. Denver venues maintain accurate, up-to-date calendars and ticketing systems. Key sites include:

• RedRocksAmp.com
• DenverArtsAndVenues.org
• BluebirdTheater.net
• MissionBallroom.com
• OgdenTheatre.com
• FillmoreDenver.com

Ticket Price Comparison Tools

Use these platforms to compare pricing and track trends:

• SeatGeek Aggregates listings from multiple sellers; features a Deal Score rating.
• TickPick No service fees; shows historical pricing trends.
• StubHub Large inventory; use price alerts and filters.
• Bandcamp For local and indie artists; often sells tickets directly.

Alert and Automation Tools

Set up automated monitoring:

• Google Alerts Create alerts for Denver concert tickets [artist name] to get email updates.
• Meetup.com Join local music groups that share ticket deals and group buys.
• Reddit: r/Denver A vibrant community where users post free tickets, giveaways, and resale offers.

Local Music Resources

Stay informed about Denvers music scene:

• Westword.com Weekly concert listings and reviews.
• 303Magazine.com Covers underground and emerging artists.
• DenverMusicScene.com Fan-driven calendar of local gigs.
• 933KBCO.com Free ticket giveaways and artist interviews.

Discount and Cashback Services

Maximize savings through rewards:

• Rakuten Earn 510% cashback on official ticket purchases.
• Cash App Use the Cash Back feature at select ticket vendors.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred 2x points on entertainment purchases.

Real Examples

Example 1: Saving $200 on a Red Rocks Show

Jessica wanted to see Phoebe Bridgers at Red Rocks in July. The face value was $135. She signed up for the Red Rocks Club and received a presale code. She bought two tickets in person at the box office on the day of the presale, paying $270 totalno fees. A week later, she noticed a friend couldnt attend. She resold one ticket through Red Rocks official Ticket Exchange for $110. Her net cost: $160 for two tickets$100 less than if shed bought both on the secondary market.

Example 2: Catching a Free Concert with a Group

Three friends from Boulder wanted to see a local band, The Motet. They checked the Denver Parks & Rec calendar and found a free Summer Sounds show at City Park. They brought picnic blankets, homemade snacks, and rode their bikes to the venue. The show featured 90 minutes of live funk, and they met the band after the set. Total cost: $0. Value: A memorable night out without spending a dime.

Example 3: Using Student Discounts for Multiple Shows

David, a CU Boulder student, used his student ID to buy $40 tickets to three different shows: The Head and the Heart at the Ogden, Moses Sumney at the Bluebird, and Margo Price at the Gothic Theatre. Each shows regular price was $65$75. He saved $105 across the three events. He also joined the venues student email list and received a code for 15% off merch.

Example 4: Waiting for Price Drops on StubHub

After missing the on-sale for Lizzos Denver show, Maria set a price alert on StubHub for under $100. Three days before the concert, prices dropped from $180 to $85 due to a weather forecast. She bought two tickets for $170 total. She later posted about her find on Reddit, where another user shared a tip: Check the venues resale pageits often cheaper. She checked and found one ticket for $70she bought it and resold the extra for $80, breaking even.

Example 5: Winning Tickets Through a Radio Contest

Mark listened to 93.3 KBCO every morning. One day, the DJ announced a contest: Text DENVER to 55555 to win two tickets to the Wilco show at Red Rocks. He texted in and won. He invited a friend, and they enjoyed the concert with VIP parking included. Total cost: $0. He later shared the experience on his blog, which helped other fans learn about the stations giveaway program.

FAQs

Can I get free concert tickets in Denver?

Yes. Local radio stations, community organizations, and venues frequently run contests and giveaways. Follow Denver-based music blogs and social media accounts for updates. Some events, especially in summer parks, are free to attend without any ticket required.

Are there discounts for seniors or military in Denver?

Many venues offer discounts. Red Rocks, the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and the Ogden Theatre provide reduced pricing for seniors and military personnel. Always ask at the box office or check the venues website under Special Offers.

Whats the best day of the week to buy concert tickets?

Ticket prices are lowest on weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday. For resale, the best time to buy is 2448 hours before the show, when sellers lower prices to recoup costs.

Is it cheaper to buy tickets in person or online?

In person is almost always cheaper because you avoid online service fees. However, if you cant make it to the box office, use official resale platforms like the venues own ticket exchange to avoid third-party markups.

How far in advance should I buy concert tickets in Denver?

For major artists, buy during the presale windowusually 13 days before public on-sale. For local or indie acts, waiting until 12 weeks before the show can yield better deals due to lower demand.

Do all Denver venues charge service fees?

Most online sellers do. But venues like Red Rocks and the Bluebird Theater offer fee-free purchases at the box office. Always compare total cost (ticket + fees) before buying.

Can I resell my concert tickets in Denver?

Yes. Most venues allow resale through their official ticket exchange platforms. Never use unauthorized resellersstick to the venues website or verified partners like Ticketmaster Transfer.

Are there apps that help find cheap concert tickets in Denver?

Yes. SeatGeek, TickPick, and StubHub offer price alerts and historical data. For local shows, use 303 Magazines app or Westwords event calendar.

What should I do if a concert I bought tickets for gets canceled?

If the event is canceled, youll receive a full refund through your original point of purchase. If its postponed, your tickets remain valid for the new date. Always check the venues official website for updates.

Can I use gift cards to buy concert tickets in Denver?

Some venues accept gift cards. Red Rocks sells its own gift cards redeemable for tickets and merch. Check the venues website or call ahead to confirm.

Conclusion

Concerts in Denver are more than just entertainmenttheyre cultural experiences that connect communities, celebrate creativity, and create lifelong memories. But they dont have to break the bank. By combining smart timing, strategic planning, and the right tools, you can attend more shows, see more artists, and spend less. Whether youre buying in person to avoid fees, waiting for price drops on resale platforms, or entering radio contests for free tickets, every dollar saved is a dollar earned toward your next experience.

The key is consistency. Dont wait until the last minute. Build habits: sign up for newsletters, set price alerts, follow local music blogs, and explore weekday shows. Over time, these small actions compound into major savings. And rememberthe best concert isnt always the most expensive one. Sometimes, its the hidden gem you discovered because you took the time to look beyond the headlines.

Denvers music scene is alive, diverse, and endlessly rewarding. With the strategies outlined in this guide, youre no longer just a spectatoryoure an informed, savvy concertgoer ready to make the most of every note, every beat, and every unforgettable night under the Colorado sky.