How to Save on Event Tickets in Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub that hosts everything from sold-out concerts at the Ball Arena and intimate jazz nights at Dazzle to major sports events at Coors Field and world-class theater performances at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. With a thriving calendar of events year-round—ranging from the Denver Film Festival and Red Rocks concerts to Broncos games and the National Western Stock Show—demand for tickets often outpaces supply, driving prices up. But saving on event tickets in Denver isn’t just possible; it’s a skill that locals and visitors alike can master with the right strategies. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or a solo concert experience, knowing how to navigate ticket markets, timing, and exclusive discounts can save you hundreds of dollars without sacrificing the quality of your experience. This comprehensive guide walks you through proven, actionable methods to secure affordable tickets across Denver’s most popular venues, backed by real-world examples, expert best practices, and essential tools you can start using today.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sign Up for Venue and Artist Email Lists

The most reliable way to access presale tickets at discounted rates is by subscribing directly to the email lists of venues and artists you love. Venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Ball Arena, and the Ogden Theatre regularly send out exclusive presale codes to subscribers before tickets go on sale to the general public. These presales often offer lower prices, better seating, and fewer service fees. For example, signing up for the Red Rocks newsletter can give you access to a 48-hour presale window that typically opens three to five days before public sales. During this window, tickets are frequently priced $10–$30 lower than general admission. Similarly, many touring artists—especially those who perform regularly in Denver—offer fan club presales. Joining an artist’s official fan club (often free or low-cost) can unlock early access, VIP packages, and even ticket bundles that include merchandise or parking.

2. Use Verified Ticketing Platforms and Avoid Resellers

Always purchase tickets through official or verified platforms. In Denver, this includes the venue’s own website (e.g., redrocksonline.com, denverballarena.com), Ticketmaster (when used directly by the venue), and AXS. Avoid third-party resellers like StubHub, Vivid Seats, or SeatGeek unless you’re comparing prices as a last resort. Why? Because resellers often inflate prices by 50–300% above face value, especially for high-demand events like Coldplay at Red Rocks or a Denver Nuggets playoff game. Official platforms usually cap service fees and may offer payment plans or loyalty rewards. For instance, Ticketmaster’s “Ticket Guarantee” ensures you receive valid tickets, and some events on their platform include “Price Drop Protection,” which refunds the difference if the ticket price decreases before the event.

3. Target Off-Peak and Weekday Events

Denver’s event pricing follows predictable patterns based on demand. Weekend nights—especially Friday and Saturday—are the most expensive. Conversely, Tuesday and Wednesday shows, particularly for concerts and theater performances, often have significantly lower ticket prices. For example, a Broadway show at the Denver Center might charge $95 for a Saturday night seat but only $65 for a Wednesday matinee. Similarly, concerts scheduled during the week, especially in the off-season (late fall or early spring), can be up to 40% cheaper. Sports teams like the Rockies and Nuggets also offer “Thirsty Thursday” or “Family Fun Night” promotions with discounted tickets, free parking, or buy-one-get-one deals. Always check the event calendar for “value nights” and plan your schedule accordingly.

4. Leverage Local Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Denver residents have access to a wealth of local loyalty programs that offer ticket discounts. The Denver Public Library, for instance, offers free or heavily discounted tickets to cultural events through its “Cultural Pass” program. With a valid library card, you can reserve up to two free tickets per month to venues like the Denver Art Museum, Denver Zoo, and even select concerts at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Similarly, the Denver Botanic Gardens and Colorado Symphony offer “Free First Friday” events with discounted or free admission. Many employers in Denver also partner with local arts organizations to provide employee discounts—check your HR portal or benefits package. Even student discounts are widely available: with a valid ID, students can get 20–50% off tickets at the Denver Center, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and select Red Rocks shows.

5. Monitor Flash Sales and Last-Minute Deals

One of the most overlooked ways to save is by waiting until the last minute. Venues and promoters often release unsold tickets at steep discounts 24–72 hours before an event to fill seats. Follow social media accounts of Denver venues and ticketing platforms for flash sale announcements. For example, the Ogden Theatre frequently posts last-minute $15 ticket drops on Instagram stories for upcoming shows. The Ball Arena sometimes releases $20 standing-room-only tickets for Nuggets games just hours before tip-off. Set up Google Alerts for phrases like “Denver event tickets last minute” or “Red Rocks cheap tickets.” Apps like TodayTix and Goldstar also specialize in same-day deals for theater, comedy, and music events across the city. These platforms notify you of discounted tickets in real time and often have a “flash sale” section updated daily.

6. Bundle Tickets with Accommodations or Dining

Many hotels and restaurants in Denver partner with event venues to offer bundled deals. For example, staying at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center might include a discount code for a nearby concert or theater performance. Similarly, dining at a partner restaurant like Fruition Restaurant or The Kitchen on 13th can earn you a voucher for $10 off tickets to a Denver Center show. These packages often reduce the overall cost by 15–25%. Look for “Experience Packages” on venue websites—they may include parking, food vouchers, or even merch. For instance, a “Rockstar Package” for a Pearl Jam show at Red Rocks might include a limited-edition poster and a drink ticket, all for the price of a regular ticket elsewhere.

7. Use Cashback and Reward Apps

Before purchasing tickets, use cashback apps like Rakuten, Honey, or Capital One Shopping. These tools automatically apply coupon codes at checkout and return a percentage of your purchase as cash. For example, purchasing tickets through Ticketmaster via Rakuten might earn you 5–8% cashback. Some credit cards—particularly those with travel or entertainment rewards—offer bonus points for ticket purchases. The Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture card, for instance, can give you 2–5x points on entertainment spending, which can be redeemed for future travel or statement credits. Always check if your card offers a “ticket protection” benefit, which can refund your purchase if an event is canceled or postponed.

8. Volunteer or Work Events for Free or Discounted Access

Many venues in Denver rely on volunteers to staff events. In exchange for a few hours of work—setting up chairs, checking tickets, or assisting with guest services—you can receive free admission to the event. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Red Rocks, and even the Denver Folklore Center regularly recruit volunteers for concerts and festivals. Some organizations offer “Volunteer VIP” status, which includes backstage access or priority seating. Check VolunteerMatch.org or the venue’s “Get Involved” page for current opportunities. This method is especially effective for recurring events like the Denver Arts Festival or the Taste of Colorado, where you can volunteer multiple times per season and enjoy the event for free each time.

9. Join Local Community Groups and Facebook Pages

Denver has an active network of community groups focused on affordable entertainment. Join Facebook groups like “Denver Free & Cheap Events,” “Denver Concerts & Shows,” or “Red Rocks Ticket Swap.” Members often post about tickets they can’t use, last-minute resales, or group discounts. For example, someone might post: “Got 2 extra tickets to the Colorado Symphony—$20 each, cash only, pickup at LoDo.” These peer-to-peer exchanges are legal and safe if you meet in public and verify the tickets through official apps like Ticketmaster’s digital wallet. Always avoid cash-only transactions with strangers unless you’re confident in the seller’s reputation. These groups are also excellent for discovering underground shows at small venues like Syntax Physic Opera or Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom, where tickets rarely exceed $25.

10. Attend Free or Donation-Based Events

Not every great experience in Denver requires a ticket price. The city hosts dozens of free events weekly: free outdoor concerts at City Park, free museum days at the Denver Art Museum (first and third Sundays), and open mic nights at local cafes like Sputnik or the Lion’s Share. The Denver Public Library’s “Live at the Library” series features free performances by local musicians and authors. The Denver Botanic Gardens offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month. These events are often just as memorable as paid ones and allow you to enjoy Denver’s cultural scene without spending a cent. Keep an eye on Denver’s official events calendar at denvergov.org/events for curated lists of free activities.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

While planning ahead gives you access to presales and better pricing, rigidity can cost you money. If you’re flexible with your dates and times, you’ll unlock more savings. For example, instead of insisting on seeing a band on a Saturday night, consider their Friday or Sunday show—often less crowded and cheaper. Use calendar alerts to mark presale dates and set reminders for flash sales. Don’t wait until the day of the event to start looking—popular shows sell out within minutes.

Compare Prices Across Platforms

Even within official channels, prices can vary. Ticketmaster might list a show at $89, but the venue’s own website could offer it at $79 with lower fees. Always check multiple sources. Use browser extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to track price history and compare ticket prices over time. Some events are sold through secondary distributors like Live Nation or AEG Presents—these may have different pricing structures than Ticketmaster.

Understand Service Fees and Hidden Costs

Service fees can add 20–40% to the ticket price. Always read the fine print. Some venues bundle parking, drink tickets, or merch into the ticket price, making it appear higher than it is. Look for “ticket only” pricing to compare face value. Avoid premium seating unless necessary—many of Denver’s venues have excellent sightlines from mid-level or rear sections. For instance, at Red Rocks, seats in the “Garden” section (back rows) offer the same iconic views as front rows but cost half as much.

Buy in Groups for Discounts

Many venues offer group discounts for parties of 10 or more. This includes sports teams, theaters, and museums. Even if you don’t have 10 friends, join forces with other local enthusiasts through Facebook groups or Meetup.com to form a group. For example, a group of 12 people buying tickets to a Colorado Rockies game can often get 15–20% off and free parking. Group purchases also increase your chances of getting seated together.

Use Mobile Tickets and Avoid Physical Copies

Digital tickets reduce the risk of loss and often come with built-in discounts. Many venues now charge extra for will-call or physical ticket pickup. Mobile tickets are also easier to resell if your plans change. Always use the official app (e.g., Ticketmaster App, AXS App) to store and manage your tickets. This ensures authenticity and avoids scams.

Follow the Weather and Event Conditions

Outdoor events in Denver are subject to weather. If a concert at Red Rocks is forecasted for rain, tickets may drop in price as demand decreases. While you should never risk safety, mild weather doesn’t ruin the experience—many fans consider rainy Red Rocks shows unforgettable. Monitor forecasts and be ready to act if prices dip. Similarly, if a headliner cancels or a show is rescheduled, look for refunds or rescheduled ticket discounts.

Track Your Spending and Set a Budget

Before you start searching, decide how much you’re willing to spend. Set a budget and stick to it. Use apps like Mint or YNAB to track entertainment spending. If you’re saving for a big event like a Red Rocks concert, allocate a small monthly amount toward a “Denver Events Fund.” This prevents impulse buys and ensures you can afford the tickets you truly want without financial stress.

Tools and Resources

Official Denver Venue Websites

Always start here:

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre: redrocksonline.com
• Ball Arena: ballarena.com
• Denver Center for the Performing Arts: denvercenter.org
• Ogden Theatre: ogdentheatre.com
• Paramount Theatre: paramountdenver.com
• Coors Field: coloradorockies.com
• Denver Botanic Gardens: botanicgardens.org

Discount Ticket Platforms

These platforms specialize in affordable, verified tickets:

• TodayTix: todaytix.com – Same-day theater and comedy deals
• Goldstar: goldstar.com – Discounted tickets for concerts, theater, and museums
• StubHub (for price comparison only): stubhub.com – Use to benchmark prices, not to buy unless necessary
• SeatGeek: seatgeek.com – Aggregates listings and shows price trends

Free and Low-Cost Event Calendars

Stay updated on free and discounted events:

• Denver Post Events: denverpost.com/events
• Westword Events: westword.com/events
• Denver Gov Events Calendar: denvergov.org/events
• Eventbrite (Free Section): eventbrite.com/d/colorado--denver/free

Browser Extensions and Apps

Automate savings:

• Honey: Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout
• Rakuten: Earn cashback on ticket purchases
• Capital One Shopping: Compares prices and finds coupons
• Google Alerts: Set alerts for “Denver concert tickets discount” or “Red Rocks cheap tickets”

Local Loyalty Programs

Free or discounted access with membership:

• Denver Public Library Cultural Pass: Free tickets to museums and performances
• Denver Arts & Venues Insider: Email list with presales and member discounts
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science Membership: Free admission, discounts on events
• Colorado Symphony Friends: Early access and reduced pricing

Real Examples

Example 1: Saving $120 on a Red Rocks Concert

Jessica, a Denver resident, wanted to see Phoebe Bridgers at Red Rocks. The general public ticket price was $135. She signed up for the Red Rocks newsletter three months in advance. When the presale launched, she received a code for 20% off and free parking. She bought two tickets for $108 each—$27 less than face value. She also used her Denver Public Library Cultural Pass to get a free ticket to the Denver Botanic Gardens that same weekend, offsetting her overall entertainment spending. Total savings: $120.

Example 2: $15 Last-Minute Comedy Show

Mark, a student, wanted to see a stand-up show at the Comedy Works. Tickets were sold out online. He followed the venue’s Instagram and saw a post announcing a flash sale: 10 tickets at $15 each, available for pickup 90 minutes before showtime. He arrived early, bought two, and enjoyed the show with friends. The regular price was $45. Savings: $60.

Example 3: Free Theater Tickets Through Volunteer Work

Lisa, a freelance designer, volunteered for two hours during a weekend performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. In exchange, she received two complimentary tickets to the show and a backstage tour. She later used those tickets to host her parents, who were visiting from out of state. The tickets would have cost $110 each. Total savings: $220.

Example 4: Group Discount for a Rockies Game

A group of six coworkers pooled together to buy tickets to a Rockies game. They contacted the team’s group sales department and qualified for a 25% discount on tickets in the upper deck. They also received free ballpark hot dogs and parking. Each ticket cost $25 instead of $45. Total savings: $120 for the group.

Example 5: Using Cashback for a Broadway Show

Tom purchased two tickets to “Hamilton” at the Denver Center through Ticketmaster using the Rakuten browser extension. He earned 8% cashback, which amounted to $24. He also used a Capital One Venture card, earning 5x points on entertainment. He later redeemed those points for a free flight to Seattle. Total savings: $24 cash + $150 in travel value.

FAQs

Can I get free tickets to events in Denver?

Yes. Many venues offer free admission on specific days (e.g., first Tuesday of the month at Denver Botanic Gardens), and the Denver Public Library’s Cultural Pass provides free tickets to museums, concerts, and theater performances. Volunteering at events is another reliable way to gain free access.

Are last-minute tickets cheaper in Denver?

Often, yes. Venues release unsold tickets at discounted rates 24–72 hours before the event. Follow venue social media, use TodayTix, and check Goldstar for same-day deals.

Is it safe to buy tickets from Facebook groups?

It can be, if you take precautions. Only transact with verified users who provide screenshots of digital tickets. Meet in public places for pickup. Avoid cash-only deals unless you’re certain the tickets are legitimate. Always verify the event on the official venue website before purchasing.

Do student discounts apply to all Denver events?

No, but they’re widely available. Most theaters, museums, and music venues offer student discounts with a valid ID. Always ask at the box office or check the website’s “Tickets” page for student rates.

What’s the best time of year to find cheap tickets in Denver?

Early spring (March–April) and late fall (October–November) are the best times. Demand is lower, and venues offer promotions to fill seats. Avoid summer (June–August) and holiday weekends when prices peak.

Can I resell my tickets if I can’t attend?

Yes, but only through official platforms. Ticketmaster and AXS allow resales through their verified resale markets. Avoid third-party sites unless necessary, as they often charge high fees and may not be secure.

Do credit cards offer ticket protection?

Some do. Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred, Capital One Venture, and American Express Platinum offer purchase protection, including refunds if an event is canceled or rescheduled. Check your card’s benefits guide.

Are there any apps that notify me of price drops?

Yes. SeatGeek and Goldstar send alerts when ticket prices change. You can also set up Google Alerts for specific events or venues.

What should I do if a show sells out?

Join the venue’s waitlist if available. Follow their social media for last-minute releases. Check secondary platforms for resales—but compare prices carefully. Sometimes, venues add extra dates or open standing-room sections.

How do I avoid scams when buying tickets?

Always buy from official sources. Never send money through Venmo, Cash App, or Zelle without verifying the ticket. Use only platforms with buyer protection. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Conclusion

Saving on event tickets in Denver isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, timing, and awareness. Whether you’re a local resident looking to enjoy your city’s rich cultural offerings or a visitor hoping to make the most of your trip, the tools and techniques outlined in this guide empower you to attend the events you love without overspending. From signing up for presales and leveraging loyalty programs to using cashback apps and volunteering for free access, there are more than a dozen proven ways to cut costs. The key is to start early, stay flexible, and use verified resources. By combining these methods, you can transform a $150 concert into a $50 experience, or turn a $200 theater night into a free outing. Denver’s event scene is vibrant, diverse, and accessible—not just to those with deep pockets, but to anyone willing to take a few smart steps. Start implementing these strategies today, and you’ll not only save money—you’ll discover new venues, meet fellow enthusiasts, and create unforgettable memories that cost far less than you ever imagined.