Concert Tips: Keep Calm and Avoid Traffic

Thumbnail: Crowd surf Green Day by Anirudh Koul (CC BY 2.0)

Attending your favorite concerts, shows, and sports events in America is a thrilling live experience yet can sometimes feel like a mighty expedition. The unfortunate concert fun went wrong. Examples like the “boisterous Swifties” who shook the concert, causing a 2.3 magnitude earthquake in Seattle. The tragic 2021 Astroworld crush, and many other crowd panic surges can turn your fun into a nightmare. Dealing with traffic is another big concern that will surely be a buzzkill and spoil your time, energy, and mood to enjoy the concert.

With so many live concerts around the corner, your heightened excitement to see your favorite stars yet anxiety to deal with a possible worst-case scenario might be conflicting in your mind.

TicketX understands your troubles, going beyond just offering you the cheapest tickets! Read on and make a mental checklist of being extra prepared to stay safe and follow the parking guidelines to focus on enjoying the event hassle-free.

Your Guide to Hassle-Free Parking

Planning for parking at a live event is a common concern for attendees, apart from those opting for public transportation. With over 250,000 parking passes sold annually for concerts and sporting events nationwide, navigating parking options can take time and effort.

FAQs: Event Parking & Passes

When do parking lots open?

Typically, parking lots open 1-2 hours before the event. Concert lots may open earlier for music festivals. Check the venue's website for exact times; some lots close shortly after the event ends.

How do I find my parking spot?

Note your parking location and input it into your GPS for easy navigation.

How much do parking passes cost?

Prices vary widely, with an average of $61 per pass. Passes can start as low as $10 and reach hundreds of dollars, depending on the event. We also have parking passes available for selected events so if you weren’t able to secure one, head over to TicketX to check it out!

Are mobile passes the same as tickets?

Most parking passes are mobile and require smartphone access. Some may need to be printed at home or are issued as hard stock passes.

Can I tailgate with a parking pass?

Tailgating rules vary by event, with specific lots designated for tailgating. Check your pass for tailgating permissions.

Will there be parking available?

Parking is allocated based on lot capacity. Arrive at least 1 hour before your event to secure a spot and account for any traffic delays.

What to expect upon arrival?

Parking setups vary, from multi-level structures to grassy lots**. Plan for potential traffic delays** and walking distances to the venue.

💡 Additional tips:

Parking maps may not be to scale, and walking may be required. Check travel time on the event day for any traffic or pedestrian restrictions changes.

Preparing for Safety in Advance

Before attending a concert or event, taking proactive measures to ensure safety is essential. Start by familiarizing yourself with the venue layout. Utilize maps available on your phone to identify key points such as exits, seating arrangements, and transportation locations. Establishing three designated meeting points for your group beforehand can be invaluable in the event of separation, ensuring easy identification amidst a crowded environment. Opt for landmarks like banners or well-lit areas for these meeting spots.

Equipping Yourself Appropriately

Be prepared for unforeseen circumstances by wearing comfortable shoes, ensuring your phone is fully charged, and bringing a portable charger for backup. Dress appropriately for the event and consider weather conditions, especially if waiting outdoors for an extended period. Staying hydrated is equally important to avoid heat waves. For families with small children, attach an AirTag to their ankles for easy tracking in case of separation.

Maintaining Group Awareness

Stick with your group, moving in pairs as you navigate the venue. Communicate your plans when separating, specifying where you're going and when you'll return. For instance, let them know if you're heading to a particular vendor and when to expect you back.

Understanding Incident Response

In emergencies or crises, understanding proper incident response protocols is crucial. Follow instructions from competent authorities and avoid rushing towards exits, as this can exacerbate panic and potentially lead to injuries. If forced into a crowded situation, maintain composure and purposefully navigate near walls to avoid being swept away by the crowd. Unless immediate danger is imminent, remain in place and await further guidance to avoid escalating the situation.

Reading The Room

Maintaining situational awareness and being attuned to your surroundings can help identify potential threats or risks. If you observe signs of agitation or anger nearby, calmly relocate to a safer area. Nonverbal cues often precede aggressive behavior, and trusting your instincts can be instrumental in avoiding dangerous situations.

Implementing Safety During Any Incident

In the event of Violence

Observe the importance of steering clear of areas of unrest, whether at a sporting event or while traveling. Instead, move in the opposite direction and inform authorities, leveraging your situational awareness to guide them to the issue.

In Case of an Explosion

Exercise caution when determining your exit strategy after an explosion. Avoid rushing towards popular exits, as they may pose additional risks, such as the potential for secondary explosions or targeted attacks.

During a Crowd Stampede

While instinct may prompt you to follow the crowd during a crisis, this approach can be unsafe, particularly in the case of stampedes or crowd crushes. If caught amidst a stampede, adopt a defensive posture by folding your arms in front of your chest to maintain balance and protect your breathing space. Avoid pushing against the crowd to conserve energy and remain uprigh