What You Actually Get in a Weeknd VIP Package
Imagine walking into a concert and skipping the long lines, grabbing front-row seats, and meeting The Weeknd himself. That's the reality of a VIP package-but what's really inside? For the After Hours: The Encore Tour The Weeknd's current 2026 tour featuring new album tracks and immersive visuals, VIP packages deliver specific perks that make the experience unforgettable. Let's cut through the hype and see exactly what you're getting.
When you pay for a VIP package, you're not just buying a ticket. You're investing in a full sensory experience designed to make you feel like a part of The Weeknd's inner circle. But not all VIP packages are the same. For example, a premium VIP package the top-tier option for The Weeknd's 2026 tour with exclusive meet-and-greets and luxury perks might include things a basic VIP package doesn't. We'll break it all down.
Core Inclusions You Can Expect
Most Weeknd VIP packages include these key elements:
- Premium seating: Usually in the front 10 rows or a dedicated VIP section. At the Madison Square Garden New York City venue where The Weeknd performed in January 2026 show, VIP seats were positioned for unobstructed views of the stage.
- Early entry: Arrive 1-2 hours before general admission. This means less waiting in line and more time to enjoy the VIP lounge. At the Los Angeles Convention Center 2026 venue for The Weeknd's West Coast shows, VIP guests entered through a separate entrance with dedicated staff.
- Exclusive VIP lounge: A private area with comfortable seating, complimentary drinks (non-alcoholic), and light snacks. During the 2026 tour, this included a curated selection of The Weeknd's favorite beverages like Starbucks cold brew a drink The Weeknd has mentioned in interviews.
- Personalized merchandise: Limited-edition items like custom jackets, vinyl records, or posters signed by Abel Tesfaye. For the 2026 tour, this often includes a custom-designed piece with your name on it. At the Barclays Center Brooklyn venue where VIPs received signed vinyl records in January 2026, fans got a limited-edition "Dawn FM: The Remix" vinyl.
- Meet-and-greet opportunity: A 10-15 minute session with The Weeknd himself. This isn't just a quick photo-usually includes a brief conversation and a personalized autograph. For example, in January 2026, a VIP guest at the United Center Chicago venue where Abel Tesfaye spent 15 minutes chatting with fans shared how he asked about his new album.
- Dedicated security and check-in: A separate entrance to avoid crowds and a staff member to guide you through the process.
How VIP Packages Compare Across Tiers
Not all VIP packages are created equal. Here's how the main tiers compare for The Weeknd's 2026 tour:
| Package Tier | Price Range | Key Inclusions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard VIP | $850-$1,000 | Premium seating (rows 5-10), early entry, VIP lounge access, basic merch | First-time VIP buyers looking for a step up from regular tickets |
| Premium VIP | $1,200-$1,400 | Front-row seats, meet-and-greet with The Weeknd, personalized merchandise, photo opportunity | Serious fans wanting a deeper connection with the artist |
| Ultimate VIP | $1,500-$2,000 | All Premium VIP perks plus private lounge with catered food, backstage tour, dedicated security escort | Collectors and die-hard fans seeking the ultimate experience |
How to Secure Your VIP Package
Buying a VIP package isn't as simple as clicking "Buy Now" on Ticketmaster. Here's what to do:
- Check official sources: The Weeknd's official website and authorized ticketing partners like Ticketmaster primary ticketing platform for The Weeknd's 2026 tour are the only places to guarantee authenticity. Avoid third-party resellers unless you're certain they're verified.
- Sign up for presales: Fans who join The Weeknd's mailing list or are part of his fan club get early access. For the 2026 tour, presales started 48 hours before general sale.
- Act fast: VIP packages often sell out within minutes. At the Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta venue where VIP packages sold out in 12 minutes in January 2026, tickets were gone before the main sale began.
- Verify details: Before purchasing, confirm exactly what's included. Some venues offer different VIP packages based on location. For example, the Wembley Stadium London venue with unique VIP offerings for The Weeknd's European shows had a different package than U.S. venues.
Is It Worth the Cost?
VIP packages for The Weeknd typically range from $850 to $2,000 depending on the venue and tier. Here's how that breaks down:
- Standard VIP ($850-$1,000): This gets you solid seating and basic perks. It's a good entry point for first-timers. At the SoFi Stadium Los Angeles venue where the Standard VIP was $899, this package included a custom t-shirt and early entry.
- Premium VIP ($1,200-$1,400): Worth it if you want a meet-and-greet. The personal interaction with The Weeknd is often the highlight. In 2026, fans at the AT&T Stadium Dallas venue where Premium VIPs received a signed album reported the meet-and-greet was worth the extra cost.
- Ultimate VIP ($1,500-$2,000): For die-hard fans. The private lounge with catered food and backstage access adds significant value. At the O2 Arena London venue where Ultimate VIPs got a private tour, this package included a 30-minute backstage tour.
Myths About VIP Packages
There are plenty of misunderstandings about VIP packages. Let's clear them up:
- Myth: VIP packages include backstage access. Reality: Most VIP packages don't grant backstage access. The "backstage" experience is usually limited to the VIP lounge area, not the actual backstage where the artist is preparing.
- Myth: You can meet The Weeknd anytime. Reality: Meet-and-greets are scheduled and limited. They're not guaranteed for every VIP package-some only include a photo opportunity without personal interaction.
- Myth: VIP packages are always sold out. Reality: While they sell quickly, some venues release additional VIP packages closer to the event. Check the official site up to 48 hours before the show.
Maximizing Your VIP Experience
Once you've got your package, here's how to make the most of it:
- Arrive early: Even though you have early entry, aim to arrive 30 minutes before the VIP entrance opens. This gives you time to settle in before the lounge gets crowded.
- Bring a camera: Most VIP packages include photo opportunities, but you'll want to capture the moment. Just remember to check venue rules-some prohibit professional cameras.
- Ask questions: During the meet-and-greet, prepare specific questions. At the Barclays Center where fans asked about album inspiration, those who prepared thoughtful questions had more meaningful interactions.
- Check for hidden perks: Some venues include unexpected bonuses like a custom gift bag or a private restroom. Always review your package details before the event.
Can I buy a Weeknd VIP package at the venue on the day of the concert?
Almost never. VIP packages sell out weeks or months in advance. For the 2026 tour, venues like the Staples Center Los Angeles venue where VIP packages sold out 3 months early had zero same-day availability. Always purchase through official channels well before the event.
Are VIP packages refundable?
Generally no. Most ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster list VIP packages as "final sale" due to their high demand and limited availability. Always read the fine print before purchasing.
Do VIP packages include transportation or hotel stays?
Rarely. The Weeknd's standard VIP packages focus solely on concert experiences. Some luxury travel agencies offer "VIP package bundles" that include flights or hotels, but these are separate from official tour offerings. Always check if the bundle is authorized by The Weeknd's team.
How early do VIP guests enter the venue?
Typically 1-2 hours before general admission. At the Madison Square Garden show in January 2026, VIP guests entered at 6 PM for an 8 PM show. This allowed time to enjoy the lounge before doors opened.
Can I upgrade a regular ticket to VIP later?
Not usually. VIP packages are separate products with limited quantities. Once they sell out-which often happens within minutes-there's no way to upgrade. Always buy the VIP package upfront if you want it.
Mbuyiselwa Cindi
Just got my Premium VIP for the NYC show next month. Front row seats are insane – I can see every detail of Abel's performance. The early entry was worth it alone; I had time to chill in the lounge with Starbucks cold brew, which he actually mentioned in an interview. The personalized merch with my name on it? Chef's kiss. But honestly, the meet-and-greet is where it's at. I asked about the new album's inspiration, and he was super chill. Just remember, the Ultimate VIP at the O2 Arena has that backstage tour, which is way better than people think. Some think it's just the lounge, but no, you actually get to walk through the backstage areas where they prep. The Standard VIP is decent for first-timers, but if you're a true fan, go Premium or Ultimate. The key is to book early – they sold out at Staples Center in 3 months. And no, you can't upgrade later. Always buy the VIP upfront. Trust me, the extra cost is worth it for the experience. Just be prepared for crowds even in VIP areas, but the separate entrance helps. Also, bring a camera for photos, but check venue rules. At MSG, they allowed phones but no professional gear. Overall, best money spent. Can't wait for the next show!
Jim Sonntag
Wow, thanks for the detailed breakdown. So if I'm a 'true fan' (whatever that means), I should shell out $2k for a 'backstage tour' that's really just the VIP lounge? Because let's be real, 'backstage' is code for 'not actually backstage'. And 'personalized merch with my name on it'? Sounds like a glorified name tag. Next thing you know, they'll charge extra for a high-five. Classic marketing ploy. Save your cash, folks.
Sarah Meadows
As an American patriot, I'm proud that The Weeknd's VIP packages showcase U.S. venues' excellence. The Madison Square Garden experience is top-tier. Our nation's infrastructure supports world-class events. Why would anyone want to go abroad for a concert when the USA has the best venues? The Ultimate VIP package at AT&T Stadium is a testament to American ingenuity. Let's keep our money here. No need for foreign venues. This is why America is great.
Nathan Pena
Your 'patriotism' is as shallow as the VIP lounge snacks. Let's not forget that The Weeknd's tour is global, and venues like Wembley and O2 Arena are far superior to anything in the States. The 'American ingenuity' you mention is just a marketing gimmick. Real fans know better than to fall for such jingoistic nonsense.
Mike Marciniak
The entire VIP package is a government surveillance scheme designed to track fans.
Deepak Sungra
Oh my god, this is such a scam! I paid $2000 for a VIP package and got nothing! The 'front row' was actually the 20th row, and the meet-and-greet was just a quick photo with a body double. The whole thing was a lie. I'm suing The Weeknd's team. This is the worst experience ever. My life is ruined.
Kathy Yip
I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe it's a one-off bad experience. But maybe you should check the package details before buying. Sometimes venues have different offring. Also, maybe the body double thing is a myth. But I think it's important to be cautious.
Jack Gifford
There's a typo: 'offring' should be 'offering'. Also, Deepak's experience might be an outlier. Most VIP packages are legitimate. I've been to several, and they're great. Just make sure to read the fine print and verify the details. The Weeknd's team is reputable.
VIRENDER KAUL
Correction noted. However, the fine print often contains misleading information. It is advisable to research thoroughly before purchasing. The term 'reputable' is subjective. In my view, the pricing structure is exploitative. One should consider the value proposition carefully.
amber hopman
Worth every penny.