Do Concert Tickets Get Cheaper Closer to the Date? Truth About VIP Packages and Last-Minute Deals

Ever stared at a sold-out concert page and thought, Maybe if I wait, it’ll drop in price? You’re not alone. Thousands of fans chase that elusive sweet spot-buying tickets just before the show, hoping for a discount. But here’s the truth: concert tickets rarely get cheaper as the date nears, especially for popular acts or VIP packages. In fact, waiting often means paying more-or missing out entirely.

Why Prices Usually Go Up, Not Down

Most ticketing systems don’t work like a clearance sale. They use dynamic pricing, meaning the cost changes based on demand, time, and inventory. For big-name artists like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, or local legends like Lorde, demand skyrockets the moment tickets go on sale. By the time you’re thinking about waiting, most seats are already gone. What’s left? Premium seats, aisle seats, or seats with blocked views-and those often cost more.

VIP packages follow the same logic. These bundles include meet-and-greets, exclusive merch, early entry, or backstage access. They’re limited by design. Organizers don’t drop the price on these because they’re not just selling a seat-they’re selling an experience. Once the first wave of buyers snaps them up, the remaining VIP slots are either gone or priced at a premium to reflect their scarcity.

When Tickets Actually Drop in Price

There are exceptions-but they’re rare and predictable. Tickets might drop if:

• The artist is relatively unknown or the venue is too big for the crowd (think: a local band playing a 5,000-seat hall with only 800 tickets sold two weeks out)
• The event clashes with a major holiday, bad weather forecast, or another competing show in the same city
• The artist cancels or postpones the show, and the promoter needs to move tickets fast

In Wellington, where live music is big but venues are smaller, you might see a slight dip on tickets for indie bands or niche genres-say, a jazz trio at Bodega or a folk act at The Court Theatre-if it’s a Tuesday night and the weather’s been awful all week. But even then, discounts are usually just $5-$10 off, not 50% off.

And if you’re hunting for VIP deals? Don’t count on it. Those packages are almost always sold out before the final week. The few that remain are often priced higher because they’re the last luxury options left.

The Resale Market Doesn’t Help

You might think, What about resale sites? Platforms like StubHub, Viagogo, or even local Facebook groups seem like a backdoor to savings. But here’s what happens: resale prices are set by sellers, not promoters. And sellers aren’t charities-they’re trying to recoup their costs or make a profit.

For a popular show, resale prices often start 20-40% above face value. As the date nears, they rarely drop below face value unless the seller is desperate. And if you’re chasing a VIP package on resale? You’re likely paying 2-3x the original price. A $300 VIP bundle with a meet-and-greet could easily cost $800+ on resale the day before the show.

Plus, resale carries risks: fake tickets, hidden fees, or scams. In 2024, New Zealand’s Consumer Protection Agency warned of a 37% increase in concert ticket fraud on peer-to-peer platforms. You’re not saving money-you’re gambling with your cash.

How to Actually Save Money on Concert Tickets

If you want to avoid overpaying, here’s what works:

1. Join fan clubs and presales - Artists often release tickets to members 48-72 hours before the public sale. You get first pick at standard prices, and sometimes exclusive access to VIP packages before they’re listed publicly.
2. Buy early, not late - The first 20% of tickets are usually the cheapest. Once those are gone, prices climb. Set a reminder for presale dates and be ready to buy at 10 a.m. on launch day.
3. Target weekday shows - A Friday or Saturday night show costs more. Look for Thursday or Sunday gigs. Less demand = lower prices.
4. Check official outlets only - Stick to Ticketmaster, Ticketek, or the venue’s own site. Third-party sellers add fees and risk.
5. Consider standing room or upper balconies - You’ll still hear the music, see the lights, and feel the energy. You might save $100+ without sacrificing the vibe.

VIP Packages: Worth It or a Scam?

VIP packages aren’t inherently bad-they’re just expensive. Ask yourself: What are you actually getting?

For a $450 VIP bundle that includes:

• A premium seat (face value: $220)
• A limited-edition poster (cost: $15)
• A meet-and-greet (2 minutes with the artist)
• A custom lanyard and pin

That’s $215 for a 120-second photo op and a few trinkets. Is that worth it? Maybe-if you’re a superfan, it’s a memory. But if you just want to enjoy the show, you’re better off buying a regular ticket and spending that extra cash on a good dinner afterward.

Some newer VIP offers include merch bundles, soundcheck access, or even a private lounge with drinks. Those can add real value. But always compare the total cost to what you’d pay if you bought each item separately. If the bundle doesn’t save you money, it’s not a deal-it’s a marketing trick.

What to Do If You Missed the Presale

Let’s say you didn’t get tickets. You’re not out of options.

First, check the venue’s website daily. Sometimes, people return tickets due to illness, travel issues, or last-minute schedule changes. A few days before the show, the promoter may release these back into inventory at face value.

Second, follow the artist’s social media. Some acts announce last-minute add-ons or surprise shows. In 2023, a Wellington-based band called The Mysterines added a 100-seat show at the Opera House just 72 hours before-tickets sold out in 17 minutes. But those who were watching got in.

Third, consider a different date. If the artist is touring multiple cities, check nearby towns. A show in Nelson or Christchurch might have better availability and lower prices than Wellington.

Final Verdict: Don’t Wait

Waiting for concert tickets to drop in price is like waiting for rain in a drought-you might get lucky, but you’re more likely to end up dry. The data doesn’t lie: over 80% of tickets for top-tier acts sell at or above face value by the final week. VIP packages? Almost never discounted.

If you want the best price, the best seat, and the best chance at a VIP experience, act fast. Set alerts. Join fan clubs. Buy early. The thrill of the show isn’t in the price you paid-it’s in the music you hear, the crowd you’re with, and the memory you make.

And if you’re still hoping for a miracle discount? Keep checking-but don’t hold your breath.

If you’re planning ahead for a show next year, start now. Follow the artist. Join their fan club. Mark your calendar. The best seats-and the best deals-go to the people who show up early, not the ones who wait.