To reach the coveted front row, you'll need to be resourceful and determined. If the seats are numbered, you need to prepare to buy tickets right away. Non-reserved ones are usually the cheapest, but the low cost has certain disadvantages. If you don't have an assigned seat, remember the proverb "Everyone for himself and God for all". Getting to the front row won't be easy, but it'll be worth it.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Plan Ahead
Step 1. Try to buy front row tickets as soon as the sale opens
If the venue or the artist has a newsletter available, sign up. Presale tickets are often offered which can give you the chance to get limited front row seats. If you're willing to spend a little more, you can also consider a VIP package that features a respectable seating. Whether you're looking to buy through a presale or regular sale, be sure to set up a reminder and log into the website as soon as tickets start becoming available for purchase. The faster you are, the more alternatives you will have.
- If there are no front row seats available, you can try to wait until concert day and check again. This is a high-risk approach that can, however, allow you to get the ticket you want. Some venues provide additional front row seating just before the gates are opened. Usually, these are tickets reserved by the artist or the club management that have ended up unused.
- Sometimes, it is possible to buy front-row tickets from touts, which are found in both the real and virtual world. In any case, you risk not being able to get them until there is little time for the concert, moreover buying them from an unauthorized seller is risky.
Step 2. If you don't have a numbered ticket, arrive before the gates open
Sometimes they open when there is only an hour left for the show to begin, in other cases hours before. The more you want to be in the front row, the earlier you will have to show up. You can grab a nice spot before the venue fills up. Obviously, this is the easiest way to be in the front row without bumping into a lot of people.
- Sometimes it is necessary to make an extra sacrifice and camp the night before to be able to find interesting places, especially if it is a big concert. Prepare well to spend the night standing in line.
- Arriving well in advance or camping can turn a simple concert into an event that will last a whole weekend. Let your friends accompany you so you don't get bored.
Step 3. Bring everything you need
If the concert is being held outdoors, you can claim your territory with picnic blankets or folding chairs. The sun protection factor and water (if allowed) are useful for keeping your seat comfortably. If the show is being held indoors and you can only stand up, you will need to wear comfortable shoes so that you can keep your seat smoothly. Find out in advance where the concert will take place: you will know what to expect and what is allowed.
- You also need to inquire about where the concert will take place to make sure you dress the right way. If you go to a small bar full of people, you may want to wear fewer clothes so you don't feel hot. If the concert will be outdoors, bring a jacket, as temperatures will drop after dark.
- Also remember to fully charge your cell phone so that it lasts throughout the concert. If you break up with your friends, you won't have a chance to track them down.
Step 4. Reduce your fluid intake a few hours before the concert starts
It may sound ridiculous, but if you have to run to the bathroom, you won't be able to keep your seat. On this occasion, you will not have the right to claim anything, plus you will have to face a tide of people and endless lines. To avoid this, cut your water or alcohol consumption in time.
Sometimes it is inevitable to go to the bathroom, it's not a problem! Unless you're on your own, you can take turns with your friends, that way there will always be someone to hold the spot
Part 2 of 3: The Right Moves to Make to Get to the Front Row
Step 1. Follow the path on which you will find less resistance
It is not wise to walk straight into the middle of the crowd. Instead, try to get as close to the front as possible by moving sideways around the perimeter. Once you have approached the first row, try to walk sideways among the people.
In general, people will be more willing to let you pass when you come in from the side rather than making your way from behind. In fact, they may think you are simply looking for a new place rather than trying to steal someone else's
Step 2. Take your friends by the hand
This is especially important in crowded places, where you run the risk of separating from the group and getting lost. Hold hands, so you can move through the crowd by creating a chain. You won't be able to walk side by side, so shake hands to stay together.
If the crowd is aggressive, there is always the risk of separating from their friends. In these situations, it is important for everyone to have their cell phones close at hand so that they can track each other down. If there is no signal, arrange in advance where to meet at the end of the concert
Step 3. Be firm but polite, especially if you lead your friends
You have to be mildly aggressive to move around people, but also say "Thank you" and "You're welcome". If treated with respect, people will feel much more willing to help you.
- If a person doesn't move even after asking them to let you pass, you can take a slightly more cheeky attitude.
- Don't be afraid to make yourself heard and matter to pass among people. You will probably never see these people again, but you will always remember the thrill of seeing your favorite artist up close.
Part 3 of 3: Defending Your Territory
Step 1. Sacrifice the beer
If you walk away to queue at the counter, you will never keep your seat. Even if you send a friend to buy a drink, you always run the risk of losing sight of him for the rest of the concert or of a larger group of people passing by. If possible, don't think about beer and focus on your seat instead.
- If there are not many people, the hall is small or easier to walk, you can give it a try instead.
- The more rebellious can try to bring a flask. If it is not confiscated at the entrance, it will help you keep a good seat and save money.
Step 2. Take a firm stance
If you seem docile and insecure, the spectators who are behind you and to the sides will have no problem pushing you and taking your seat. Instead, take all the space you need and firmly claim it. Keep your legs apart at the same width as your hips, your shoulders straight and your head held high. Don't be afraid to take up your rightful space in the front row.
If some viewers push you or try to steal your seat even though you are claiming it with determination, try to respond with an equally firm attitude. Get in touch. Look them in the eye and invite them to back down
Step 3. Dance, sing and have fun
If you are in the front row, you have to show that you deserve it. If you stand still, with your arms folded and don't seem interested, staunch fans will likely usurp your space. Dance, sing and have fun. After all, if you have arrived in the front row, it is impossible not to get involved.
