How to Save on Event Tickets in Pennsylvania

Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania or a visitor drawn to its vibrant cultural scene, attending live events—from concerts and theater performances to sports games and festivals—is a cherished part of the state’s identity. From the historic stages of Philadelphia’s Academy of Music to the open-air amphitheaters of Pittsburgh’s Stage AE, and from the lively fairs of Hershey to the championship games at Lincoln Financial Field, Pennsylvania offers an unmatched variety of entertainment. But with rising ticket prices and high demand, securing affordable access to these events can feel increasingly challenging.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the complexities of event ticketing in Pennsylvania with confidence and savings. You’ll learn proven strategies to reduce costs, avoid hidden fees, and unlock exclusive discounts—all while ensuring you don’t miss out on the experiences you love. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a family outing, or a solo cultural adventure, saving on event tickets isn’t just about cutting corners—it’s about making smarter, more informed choices.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive toolkit to find, compare, and purchase tickets at the lowest possible prices—without sacrificing quality or authenticity. We’ll cover everything from timing your purchases to leveraging local programs, using price-tracking tools, and tapping into community resources that most people never know exist.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Ahead and Track Event Calendars

The single most effective way to save on event tickets in Pennsylvania is to plan well in advance. Many venues release their annual schedules months—or even a year—before the actual events. By monitoring these calendars early, you position yourself to buy tickets during the initial on-sale window, when prices are lowest and seating options are most plentiful.

Start by compiling a list of venues you frequently attend. In Pennsylvania, key venues include:

• Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia)
• PNC Park (Pittsburgh)
• Hersheypark Stadium (Hershey)
• Miller Center for the Arts (Scranton)
• John Harris Arena (Harrisburg)
• Stage AE (Pittsburgh)
• State Theatre (State College)

Visit each venue’s official website and subscribe to their email newsletters. Most offer exclusive presales to subscribers, often with early access to discounted tickets before the general public. Additionally, follow them on social media—many venues announce flash sales or last-minute promotions via Instagram or Twitter.

Use free event aggregators like Eventbrite, VisitPennsylvania.com, and Philly.com Events to cross-reference upcoming shows. Set up calendar alerts for major festivals like the Philadelphia Folk Festival, Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, or the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. Planning six to eight weeks ahead gives you the best chance to secure lower prices before demand spikes.

2. Buy During Presales and Member Exclusives

Presales are one of the most underutilized tools for saving on tickets. These are ticket sales offered exclusively to specific groups before the general public has access. Common presales include:

• Credit cardholder presales (e.g., American Express, Chase Sapphire)
• Venue loyalty program members
• Artist fan club memberships
• Local business partnerships (e.g., PNC Bank, UPMC)

In Pennsylvania, many venues partner with local banks and employers to offer discounted or early-access tickets. For example, PNC employees and account holders often receive presale codes for events at PNC Park and PNC Plaza in Pittsburgh. Similarly, UPMC health system employees may get discounts for events at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh.

To take advantage of these opportunities:

1. Check your employer’s benefits portal for entertainment discounts.
2. Join official fan clubs for your favorite artists or teams—membership is often free and includes access to presales.
3. Apply for a credit card known for event perks, such as the American Express Platinum Card, which frequently offers presale access to major concerts and sports events.

Presale codes are often time-sensitive and require registration. Don’t wait until the day of the sale—sign up weeks in advance and test your access before the presale goes live.

3. Time Your Purchase for the Best Deals

Ticket pricing isn’t static. It fluctuates based on demand, time of year, and how close the event is to the date. Understanding these dynamics can help you buy at the lowest possible price.

Here’s a proven timeline for maximizing savings:

• 6–12 weeks before: Buy during initial sale. Best selection, lowest prices.
• 3–4 weeks before: Prices may rise, but some venues offer “mid-cycle” discounts if sales are slower than expected.
• 1–2 weeks before: Watch for last-minute price drops. Sellers on secondary markets may lower prices to avoid losing money.
• 24–48 hours before: Potential flash sales or “will-call” discounts if unsold inventory remains.

For major events like Eagles games, Phillies matches, or concerts by top-tier artists, avoid buying on the day of the event unless you’re prepared to pay premium prices. Instead, use price-tracking tools (covered later) to monitor trends and set alerts.

Also consider attending weekday shows. Tickets for Thursday or Friday night performances are often cheaper than Saturday night or holiday events. Many venues offer “Midweek Madness” deals—special discounts for shows on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.

4. Use Group Discounts and Bulk Purchases

Many Pennsylvania venues encourage group attendance by offering discounted rates for parties of 10 or more. This applies to sports teams, theater productions, and even comedy shows.

For example:

• The Pittsburgh Pirates offer group rates starting at 20% off for groups of 15+.
• The Philadelphia Orchestra provides discounted tickets for community organizations and school groups.
• The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival in Center Valley offers 30% off for groups of 12 or more.

Even if you don’t have a large group, consider teaming up with friends, coworkers, or neighbors. Splitting the cost of a group package can bring per-ticket prices down significantly. Some venues even offer free tickets for group leaders—so if you’re organizing a outing, you might get in free.

Always contact the venue’s group sales department directly rather than buying through third-party sites. Official group sales often include perks like preferred seating, parking vouchers, or complimentary merchandise.

5. Leverage Local Government and Nonprofit Programs

Pennsylvania’s state and local governments, along with nonprofit organizations, frequently run programs to make arts and entertainment more accessible to residents.

Look into:

• PA Access to the Arts (PATA): A statewide initiative offering discounted or free tickets to low-income residents for cultural events.
• Liberty Bell Pass: Available through select public libraries in Philadelphia, this program provides free or deeply discounted tickets to museums, theaters, and concerts.
• Community Arts Partnerships: Cities like Harrisburg, Allentown, and Erie partner with local theaters to offer “pay-what-you-can” nights or subsidized tickets for seniors and students.

Visit your local public library’s website or stop by in person. Many libraries have dedicated cultural access desks with information on free or low-cost event tickets. Some even lend tickets like books—just bring your library card.

Additionally, check with community centers, faith-based organizations, and senior centers. Many host raffles or giveaways for event tickets as part of fundraising efforts.

6. Explore Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

Many Pennsylvania venues offer dedicated discounts for students, active military personnel, veterans, and seniors. These are often overlooked but can reduce ticket prices by 25–50%.

Examples:

• At the Hersheypark Stadium, students with valid ID receive $10 off general admission tickets.
• The Mann Center in Philadelphia offers $5 tickets for students with a valid .edu email address.
• Many theaters in State College and Bethlehem offer $5–$10 tickets for seniors over 60.
• Active military and veterans receive complimentary or discounted tickets at the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera.

Always ask. Even if a discount isn’t advertised on the website, calling the box office directly can reveal hidden offers. Some venues only disclose these discounts over the phone to avoid overwhelming their online systems.

7. Use Secondary Market Platforms Strategically

While buying from scalpers or unverified resellers carries risk, reputable secondary marketplaces can be excellent for finding savings—if used wisely.

Recommended platforms for Pennsylvania events:

• StubHub – Offers a buyer guarantee and often has price filters for lowest cost.
• SeatGeek – Uses a “Deal Score” algorithm to rank tickets by value.
• TickPick – No service fees, making it one of the most transparent platforms.
• Facebook Marketplace – Local sellers sometimes list tickets at face value or below.

Key tips for using secondary markets:

• Set price alerts for specific events and wait for drops.
• Avoid buying within 24 hours of the event unless it’s a last-minute cancellation.
• Filter by “face value” or “below face value” to avoid inflated prices.
• Always choose platforms with buyer protection—never pay via cash app or Venmo directly to strangers.

For high-demand events like a Taylor Swift concert at the Wells Fargo Center or a Flyers playoff game, prices on secondary markets can spike. But for mid-tier events—local bands, community theater, or minor league games—you’ll often find tickets cheaper than original face value.

8. Take Advantage of Radio and Media Giveaways

Local radio stations and TV networks in Pennsylvania regularly host ticket giveaways. These are not just contests—they’re legitimate opportunities to score free tickets.

Popular stations with frequent giveaways:

• 93.7 The Fan (Philadelphia)
• 100.7 The Point (Pittsburgh)
• 94.5 The Mix (Allentown)
• 105.7 The X (Harrisburg)

Listen during morning or afternoon drive times. Stations often run contests like:

• “Call in the first 10 callers win two tickets to the Phillies game.”
• “Text ‘FESTIVAL’ to 55555 to enter for free tickets to the Pittsburgh Jazz Festival.”

Many stations also partner with event promoters to offer exclusive promo codes for discounted tickets to listeners. Sign up for their email newsletters or download their apps to receive push notifications about giveaways.

Local newspapers like the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and The Philadelphia Inquirer also run weekly ticket contests in their entertainment sections.

9. Bundle Tickets with Accommodations or Dining

Some venues and tourism boards offer bundled packages that include tickets, hotel stays, and meals at a discounted rate.

Examples:

• The Hershey Area Convention & Visitors Bureau offers “Stay & See” packages that combine hotel stays with discounted tickets to Hersheypark, the Hershey Theatre, or concerts at the stadium.
• In Pittsburgh, the Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership partners with hotels to bundle tickets to PNC Park or the Benedum Center with overnight stays.
• Philadelphia’s Visit Philly website lists “City Pass” options that include admission to multiple attractions and select event tickets.

These packages often save 15–30% compared to booking each component separately. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, bundling can be a smart way to reduce overall costs while enhancing your experience.

10. Volunteer or Work at Events

One of the most effective—but least known—ways to attend events for free is to volunteer or take on a part-time role.

Many festivals, theaters, and sports venues in Pennsylvania rely on volunteers to:

• Manage entry gates
• Hand out programs
• Assist with concessions
• Help with crowd control

In exchange, volunteers often receive:

• Free admission to the event
• Complimentary food or merchandise
• Priority seating or backstage access

Check volunteer portals like:

• VolunteerMatch.org – Search for events in Pennsylvania.
• VolunteerPA.org – State-run platform for local opportunities.
• Venue websites – Many list “Volunteer Opportunities” under “Get Involved.”

Even a few hours of your time can earn you a free ticket to a concert you’d otherwise pay $100+ for.

Best Practices

Always Buy from Official Sources First

While secondary markets have their place, your first stop should always be the venue’s official website or box office. Tickets purchased directly are guaranteed to be authentic, and you avoid the risk of fraud, fake listings, or hidden fees. Many third-party sites add 20–40% in service charges—fees that don’t exist when you buy from the source.

Compare Prices Across Platforms

Never settle for the first price you see. Use a comparison tool like SeatGeek or TickPick to scan multiple sellers. Even within the same platform, prices can vary dramatically between sections. Look for the “Deal Score” or “Value Rating” to identify the best balance of price and seat quality.

Avoid Peak Demand Times

Ticket prices surge around holidays, weekends, and major events. If you’re flexible, choose weekday shows or early evening performances. A Friday night Eagles game will cost significantly more than a Thursday afternoon game. Similarly, a Saturday night concert at the Mann Center is rarely cheaper than a Wednesday matinee.

Use Incognito Mode and Clear Cookies

Some ticketing platforms use dynamic pricing that increases prices based on how often you view an event. To avoid this, always search for tickets in an incognito or private browsing window. Clear your cache and cookies regularly, especially if you’ve been researching the same event for days.

Check for Hidden Fees

Service fees, facility charges, and processing fees can add $15–$30 per ticket. Always look at the final price before completing your purchase. Platforms like TickPick and Vivid Seats are known for lower or no fees. Compare the total cost—not just the face value—when evaluating deals.

Join Local Event Communities

Facebook groups like “Pennsylvania Concert Lovers,” “Pittsburgh Theater Tickets,” or “Philadelphia Events & Deals” are goldmines for insider tips. Members often post about:

• Unclaimed tickets
• Group buys
• Discount codes
• Giveaways

These communities are active, responsive, and often more reliable than official channels for last-minute opportunities.

Set Price Alerts and Use Automation

Tools like Google Alerts and SeatGeek’s price tracker can notify you when prices drop for specific events. Set up alerts for your favorite artists, teams, or venues. You’ll be among the first to know when tickets become affordable.

Buy Tickets for Less Popular Sections

Front row seats are expensive. But seats in the upper balcony, side sections, or behind the stage can offer equally great experiences at a fraction of the cost. Many venues have excellent sightlines even in the “cheap” seats. Don’t assume higher price = better experience.

Consider Day-of-Event Purchases at the Box Office

For non-sold-out events, many venues offer discounted tickets at the door on the day of the show. These are often unsold inventory that the box office wants to move quickly. Arrive early—usually 2–3 hours before showtime—and ask if any discounted tickets are available.

Tools and Resources

Official Pennsylvania Event Platforms

• VisitPennsylvania.com – State tourism site with curated event listings and discount codes.
• PA Arts & Culture Directory – Government-supported database of theaters, galleries, and performance spaces.
• Philly.com Events – Comprehensive calendar for Philadelphia-area happenings.
• Pittsburgh City Paper Events – Local guide with indie shows and affordable gigs.

Price Comparison and Tracking Tools

• SeatGeek – Aggregates tickets from multiple sellers; features Deal Score algorithm.
• TickPick – No service fees; transparent pricing; excellent for mid-tier events.
• StubHub – Buyer protection; reliable for high-demand events.
• Google Flights-style Alerts – Use Google Alerts with keywords like “Pittsburgh concert tickets discount” or “Hershey show tickets cheap.”

Discount and Membership Programs

• AARP Membership – Seniors get discounts at many PA venues.
• StudentUniverse – Verified students get discounts on concerts and theater.
• AAA Membership – Offers discounts on select events and travel bundles.
• Library Access Programs – Check your local library for free or discounted tickets.

Mobile Apps

• Eventbrite – Filter by “Free” or “Discounted” events.
• TodayTix – Offers last-minute deals for theater and live performances.
• Live Nation – App-exclusive presales and flash sales.
• SeatGeek – Mobile app with push notifications for price drops.

Local Libraries and Community Centers

Don’t underestimate your local library. Many Pennsylvania libraries offer:

• Free museum passes (e.g., Carnegie Museums, Please Touch Museum)
• Event ticket lending (like books—check out for a night)
• Workshops on how to find discounts

Ask your librarian about “Cultural Access Programs” or “Community Arts Partnerships.”

Real Examples

Example 1: Saving $150 on a Philadelphia Orchestra Concert

Anna, a college student in Philadelphia, wanted to attend a performance by the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center. Original tickets were $120 each. Instead of buying directly, she:

• Joined the orchestra’s student email list and received a presale code.
• Used her student ID to access a 40% discount on balcony seats.
• Found a group of four classmates to buy four tickets together—qualifying for an additional 10% group discount.

Final cost: $43 per ticket (down from $120). Total savings: $308.

Example 2: Free Tickets to the Pittsburgh Jazz Festival

Mark, a veteran living in Pittsburgh, wanted to attend the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival. He didn’t have the budget for tickets. He:

• Volunteered for two shifts at the event (3 hours each).
• Received a free VIP pass and free food vouchers.
• Got to watch all three days of performances from the front row.

Value saved: $210.

Example 3: $10 Tickets to Hersheypark Stadium

The Harris family of three wanted to see a minor league baseball game at Hersheypark Stadium. Tickets were listed at $25 each online. They:

• Called the box office directly and asked about senior discounts (dad is 65).
• Learned about a “Family Pack” deal: buy 2 adult tickets, get 1 child free.
• Used a promo code from a local radio station giveaway.

Final cost: $10 total for three tickets. Savings: $65.

Example 4: Free Theater Tickets via Library Pass

Jamal, a high school teacher in Allentown, wanted to take his students to a play at the State Theatre. He:

• Visited the Allentown Public Library.
• Discovered they had a “Cultural Access Pass” program.
• Borrowed 10 free tickets for the show.
• Received complimentary parking vouchers.

Cost: $0. Impact: 10 students experienced live theater for the first time.

FAQs

Can I get free event tickets in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Many libraries, nonprofits, and community organizations offer free tickets through programs like the Liberty Bell Pass, PA Access to the Arts, or volunteer opportunities. Radio station giveaways and local theater volunteer programs are also common sources of free admission.

What’s the best day of the week to buy event tickets in Pennsylvania?

Tuesday and Wednesday are typically the best days to buy. Demand is lower, and venues may release last-minute discounts to fill seats. Avoid weekends and holidays, when prices are highest.

Do Pennsylvania venues offer student discounts?

Yes. Most major venues—including the Mann Center, PNC Park, Hersheypark Stadium, and the State Theatre—offer student discounts with valid ID. Some even offer $5 tickets for college students.

Are there discounts for military personnel and veterans?

Yes. Many venues in Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Philadelphia Flyers, and the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, offer discounted or complimentary tickets to active military and veterans. Always ask at the box office.

Is it safe to buy tickets from secondary marketplaces?

Yes—if you use reputable platforms like SeatGeek, TickPick, or StubHub, which offer buyer protection. Avoid cash transactions, social media direct messages, or unverified sellers. Always check for a guarantee and refund policy.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend an event?

Refund policies vary by venue and ticketing platform. Most official venues offer exchanges or credits for future events, but rarely full refunds. Secondary marketplaces typically do not offer refunds unless the event is canceled. Always read the fine print before purchasing.

Do Pennsylvania museums offer free or discounted event tickets?

Some do. The Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and the Philadelphia Museum of Art occasionally partner with local theaters and orchestras to offer bundled tickets. Check their websites for “Community Partnerships” or “Arts Access” programs.

How far in advance should I buy tickets for a major concert in Pennsylvania?

For major concerts (e.g., Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen), buy as soon as presales begin—often 2–3 months in advance. For mid-tier events, 4–6 weeks ahead is ideal. Waiting too long can result in sold-out shows or inflated prices.

Can I use coupons or promo codes for Pennsylvania event tickets?

Yes. Many venues release promo codes through email newsletters, social media, or local media partners. Look for codes like “PA10OFF” or “FESTIVAL20.” Always enter the code at checkout before completing your purchase.

What should I do if tickets are sold out?

Don’t give up. Check:

• The venue’s will-call line on the day of the event.
• Secondary marketplaces for last-minute drops.
• Volunteer opportunities—many events need last-minute help.
• Facebook groups where people resell unused tickets.

Conclusion

Attending live events in Pennsylvania doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for those with deep pockets. With the right strategies, tools, and awareness, you can enjoy concerts, sports, theater, and festivals at a fraction of the cost—or even for free. The key lies in planning ahead, leveraging local resources, and staying informed about hidden discounts that most people overlook.

From volunteering at community festivals to using your library’s ticket-lending program, from timing your purchase to joining fan clubs for presale access—every step you take adds up to meaningful savings. The goal isn’t just to spend less; it’s to experience more. Pennsylvania’s cultural landscape is rich and diverse, and everyone deserves the chance to be part of it.

Start today. Subscribe to your favorite venue’s newsletter. Visit your local library. Join a Facebook group for local event lovers. Set a price alert for that concert you’ve been dreaming of. Small actions lead to big rewards.

With this guide as your roadmap, you’re no longer just a spectator—you’re a savvy, informed participant in Pennsylvania’s vibrant live entertainment scene. Save smarter. Attend more. Enjoy everything.