How to Save on Event Tickets in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its dynamic cultural scene, world-class entertainment venues, and year-round calendar of events. From the Long Beach Grand Prix and the NAMM Show to jazz festivals, comedy nights at the Improv, and concerts at the Peacock Theater, there’s always something happening. But with demand high and popular events selling out fast, ticket prices can quickly escalate—especially during peak seasons or for headline acts. The good news? With the right strategies, you can enjoy Long Beach’s best events without overspending. Saving on event tickets isn’t just about luck or last-minute deals; it’s a skill built on timing, research, and leveraging the right tools. This comprehensive guide walks you through proven methods to reduce your ticket costs, maximize value, and ensure you never miss out on the events you love—without breaking the bank.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Ahead and Track Event Calendars

The foundation of saving on event tickets is anticipation. Waiting until the day of the event to look for tickets almost guarantees you’ll pay full price—or worse, miss out entirely. Start by identifying the types of events you’re most interested in: concerts, sports, theater, food festivals, or family-friendly activities. Once you have a list, subscribe to official event calendars. The City of Long Beach website, Visit Long Beach, and the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center all publish updated schedules months in advance. Bookmark these resources and set monthly reminders to review upcoming listings. When you spot an event you want to attend, note the date and the official ticketing platform. Early awareness gives you a critical advantage: access to presales, early-bird pricing, and the ability to compare prices across vendors before they spike.

2. Sign Up for Presale Access

Presale tickets are often released 24 to 72 hours before general public sales and are typically priced lower or come with better seat selection. Many venues and promoters offer presales to loyal fans, credit card holders, or newsletter subscribers. For example, Live Nation, AXS, and Ticketmaster frequently run presales for artists performing at the Peacock Theater or the Long Beach Arena. To qualify, sign up for email lists from the venue, the artist’s official website, and the ticketing platform. Some credit card companies, like American Express or Chase, also offer exclusive presales to cardmembers—check your benefits portal. Don’t overlook local organizations: the Long Beach Symphony or the Long Beach Opera often provide presales to members or donors. Even if you’re not ready to commit financially, signing up is free and gives you a head start.

3. Use Discount Platforms and Cashback Sites

Before purchasing tickets, always check discount aggregators. Sites like Groupon, Goldstar, and TicketLiquidator specialize in discounted event tickets. Groupon, for instance, regularly features deals on Long Beach comedy shows, theater performances, and even brewery tours with live music. Goldstar offers “buy one, get one half off” deals for theater and live performances, making it ideal for couples or small groups. For higher-value events, TicketLiquidator lists resale tickets at reduced prices—often 20–50% below face value—because sellers want to offload tickets before the event. Combine this with cashback platforms like Rakuten or Honey. When you buy tickets through these sites, you earn a percentage back in cash rewards. For example, purchasing two $80 tickets through Rakuten could net you $8–$16 in cashback. Always compare the final price after cashback to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

4. Leverage Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

Many Long Beach venues offer discounts for specific groups, yet these are often underutilized. The Long Beach Playhouse, California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) events, and even some concerts at the Aquarium of the Pacific offer reduced rates for students with valid ID. Military personnel and veterans can often access discounted tickets through ID.me verification on platforms like Ticketmaster or AXS. Seniors aged 62 and older may qualify for reduced pricing at theaters and cultural institutions—always ask at the box office or check the event page for “Senior Discount” eligibility. Even if a discount isn’t advertised, calling the venue directly can sometimes unlock unlisted offers. Don’t assume you’re ineligible; many organizations are happy to accommodate loyal community members.

5. Buy Tickets in Groups or Bundle Deals

Group discounts are one of the most effective ways to save. Many venues offer 10–20% off when you buy four or more tickets together. This applies to everything from Broadway-style shows at the Carpenter Center to family events at the Long Beach Zoo. Look for “Group Sales” links on the venue’s website or contact their box office directly to inquire. Bundling is another smart tactic: some events offer ticket + merchandise or ticket + parking packages at a reduced rate. For example, attending the Long Beach Beer Festival might include a discounted souvenir glass and entry to a VIP tasting area for just $10 more than general admission. Always compare the bundled price against buying items separately. Sometimes, the extra cost is negligible compared to the added value.

6. Attend Off-Peak or Weekday Events

Event pricing is heavily influenced by demand. Weekend nights, especially Friday and Saturday, command premium prices. If your schedule allows, consider attending events on Thursday nights, Sunday afternoons, or even weekday matinees. The Long Beach Symphony, for example, offers significantly lower prices for Thursday evening concerts compared to Saturday nights. Similarly, comedy clubs like The Improv Long Beach often have “Early Bird Specials” on Tuesdays with tickets as low as $15. Even major concerts sometimes schedule warm-up shows on weekdays before the main tour date, and these can be priced lower. Weekday events are also less crowded, giving you a more relaxed experience. Flexibility in timing can translate to substantial savings.

7. Monitor Resale Markets Strategically

Resale platforms like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and SeatGeek can be double-edged swords. Prices often surge as the event date approaches, but they can also drop significantly 48–72 hours before the show if sellers are desperate to offload tickets. Set up price alerts on these platforms for your target events. For example, if you’re eyeing a concert at the Long Beach Arena, create a notification for $75 or lower. Many sellers reduce prices after the initial rush to avoid losing the entire investment. Be cautious of last-minute purchases, though—some events sell out quickly, and resale prices can spike unpredictably. Use these platforms as a backup, not your first option.

8. Use Loyalty Programs and Rewards Points

Long Beach venues and ticketing platforms increasingly partner with loyalty programs. If you’re a member of a local bank or credit union, check if they offer event ticket rewards. Some credit cards, like the Capital One Venture or Citi Premier, allow you to redeem points for ticket purchases. Even grocery store loyalty programs like Ralphs or Vons occasionally partner with event promoters to offer digital coupons for local events. The Long Beach Public Library also provides free or discounted passes to museums, theaters, and cultural institutions through its “Library Pass” program—just reserve online using your library card. These programs are often overlooked but can deliver hundreds of dollars in annual savings.

9. Volunteer or Work Event Shifts

For those willing to trade time for tickets, volunteering at events is a powerful strategy. Many festivals, including the Long Beach Pride Celebration, the Long Beach Wine & Food Festival, and the Long Beach Blues Festival, rely on volunteers to manage entrances, distribute materials, or assist with logistics. In exchange, volunteers often receive free admission, food, and sometimes even merchandise. This is a fantastic way to experience events you might not otherwise afford. Check the volunteer pages on event websites or contact the organizing nonprofit directly. Even local theaters and art galleries often need help with setup or ushering—ask if they offer complimentary tickets as compensation.

10. Follow Local Influencers and Community Groups

Local Facebook groups, Instagram accounts, and Nextdoor communities are goldmines for hidden deals. Residents often post about giveaways, last-minute ticket drops, or discounted passes from friends who can’t attend. For example, a Facebook group like “Long Beach Events & Things to Do” regularly shares free ticket giveaways from local bands or pop-up events. Follow influencers like @LongBeachLocal or @VisitLongBeach on Instagram—they often partner with venues to offer exclusive promo codes. Don’t ignore Reddit threads like r/LongBeach, where users sometimes trade or give away tickets. These grassroots networks are often faster and more authentic than official channels.

Best Practices

Always Verify the Official Source

Before purchasing, confirm you’re buying from the venue’s official website or an authorized reseller. Counterfeit tickets and scalper scams are common, especially on unverified third-party sites. Look for secure URLs (https://), official logos, and contact information. If a deal seems too good to be true—like $10 tickets to a sold-out concert—it probably is. Stick to platforms like AXS, Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or the venue’s box office. When in doubt, call the venue directly and ask if the seller is authorized.

Set Price Alerts and Monitor Trends

Use browser extensions like Honey or Keepa to track ticket prices over time. These tools notify you when prices drop on major platforms. For recurring events like the Long Beach Grand Prix, study historical pricing trends. Prices typically rise 3–4 weeks before the event, then plateau. Buying during the early-bird window or 10–14 days out often yields the best balance of price and availability.

Avoid Convenience Fees When Possible

Online ticketing platforms often tack on service fees that can add 15–25% to your total. To minimize these, purchase tickets in person at the box office. Many venues, including the Terrace Theater and the Long Beach Convention Center, offer the same pricing online and in-person—but without digital fees. Arrive early to avoid lines, and bring cash or debit for faster transactions. In-person purchases also give you the chance to ask about unadvertised discounts or upgrades.

Buy Multiple Events at Once

Some venues offer “season passes” or multi-event bundles. The Long Beach Performing Arts Center, for instance, sells subscription packages for their theater season that include 4–6 shows at 30% off individual ticket prices. Similarly, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers annual memberships that include unlimited admission and discounts on special events. If you plan to attend more than two events in a season, a bundle is almost always the smarter financial choice.

Use a Separate Payment Method for Ticket Purchases

Keep a dedicated credit card or digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) for event purchases. This helps you track spending, earn rewards consistently, and avoid overspending. Some cards offer bonus points on entertainment purchases, making this a strategic financial habit. Plus, if a ticket is canceled or the event is postponed, using a credit card gives you stronger consumer protection and easier refund processing.

Be Ready to Act Fast

Popular events in Long Beach sell out within minutes. Prepare ahead: log into your ticketing accounts, pre-fill your payment and shipping details, and have your promo codes ready. Use multiple devices if possible—one for research, one for purchase. Set alarms for presale start times and avoid waiting until the last minute to decide. Speed and preparation are your greatest allies.

Read the Fine Print

Always check refund policies, transfer rules, and seating restrictions. Some discounted tickets are non-refundable or non-transferable. Others may have restricted views or be valid only for certain sections. Make sure you understand what you’re buying. If you’re purchasing from a resale site, confirm the tickets are “100% Guaranteed” and delivered electronically or via will-call.

Tools and Resources

Official Event Calendars

• Visit Long Beach – visitlongbeach.com/events
• Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center – lbcecc.com
• Long Beach Performing Arts Center – lbpac.org
• CSULB Events Calendar – csulb.edu/events

Ticketing Platforms

• AXS – axs.com
• Ticketmaster – ticketmaster.com
• Live Nation – livenation.com
• Goldstar – goldstar.com
• Groupon – groupon.com
• SeatGeek – seatgeek.com
• StubHub – stubhub.com

Discount and Cashback Sites

• Rakuten – rakuten.com
• Honey – honey.com
• Capital One Shopping – capitaloneshopping.com
• StudentUniverse – studentuniverse.com

Community and Loyalty Resources

• Long Beach Public Library Pass Program – lbpl.org/library-pass
• Long Beach Local Events Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/longbeachevents
• ID.me for Military & Veteran Discounts – id.me
• Long Beach Chamber of Commerce Events – longbeachchamber.org

Browser Extensions

• Honey – automatically applies coupon codes
• Keepa – tracks price history for tickets
• PriceBlink – compares prices across platforms

Real Examples

Example 1: Saving $120 on a Concert at the Peacock Theater

Sarah, a Long Beach resident, wanted to see a popular indie band performing at the Peacock Theater. Tickets were listed at $110 each on Ticketmaster. She signed up for the venue’s newsletter and received a presale code for a 15% discount. She used the code and bought two tickets for $93.50 each. Then, she purchased through Rakuten, which gave her 5% cashback. Her final cost: $88.83 per ticket—$21.17 saved per ticket, or $42.34 total. She also used her library pass to get free parking at the venue, saving another $15. Total savings: $57.34.

Example 2: Free Admission to the Long Beach Wine & Food Festival

Mark, a food enthusiast, volunteered for two shifts at the Long Beach Wine & Food Festival. He helped with guest check-in and event setup. In exchange, he received two free VIP tickets, a complimentary meal, and access to exclusive tastings. The regular VIP ticket price was $175. Mark saved $350 and gained a premium experience he couldn’t have afforded otherwise.

Example 3: $40 Theater Tickets Through a Group Deal

A group of five friends wanted to see a Broadway-style musical at the Carpenter Center. Individual tickets were $85. They contacted the box office and asked about group discounts. The venue offered 20% off for groups of five or more. They bought five tickets at $68 each. One friend used her Amex card, which gave her 10% back on entertainment purchases. Final cost: $306 for five tickets. Without the discount, they would have paid $425. Total savings: $119.

Example 4: Using a Library Pass for the Aquarium of the Pacific

Jessica, a single parent, wanted to take her two kids to the Aquarium of the Pacific. General admission was $34 per person. She checked the Long Beach Public Library’s website and found they offered a free “Library Pass” for the aquarium. She reserved the pass online using her library card, printed it, and gained free admission for her family of three. She saved $102 and used the day to explore the nearby Shoreline Village, where she found a $5 lunch deal. Total savings: $102 + $15 = $117.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to find discounted event tickets in Long Beach?

The best times are typically January–March and September–November. These are shoulder seasons when demand is lower, and venues offer promotions to fill seats. Major holidays and summer months (June–August) are peak times and usually have the highest prices.

Can I get free tickets to Long Beach events?

Yes. Free tickets are often available through library passes, volunteer programs, community giveaways, and promotional events. Follow local Facebook groups and sign up for newsletters to stay informed.

Are resale tickets safe to buy?

Yes—if you buy from reputable platforms like SeatGeek, StubHub, or Vivid Seats that offer buyer protection. Avoid unofficial sellers on Craigslist or social media. Always check for “100% Guaranteed” labels and electronic delivery.

Do Long Beach venues offer student discounts?

Many do. CSULB events, the Long Beach Playhouse, and the Museum of Latin American Art offer student discounts with valid ID. Always ask at the box office or check the event page for “Student Discount” options.

How far in advance should I buy tickets to save money?

For popular events, buy during the presale or early-bird window—usually 4–8 weeks before the event. For less popular events, waiting 1–2 weeks before the show can yield lower resale prices.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

Refund policies vary. Most primary ticket sellers (Ticketmaster, AXS) allow refunds only if the event is canceled. Resale tickets are typically non-refundable. Always read the terms before purchasing.

Are there any apps that help find cheap event tickets in Long Beach?

Yes. Apps like Goldstar, Groupon, and SeatGeek have mobile versions with push notifications for local deals. The Long Beach Events app (by Visit Long Beach) also sends alerts for discounted or free events.

Do credit cards offer event ticket discounts in Long Beach?

Some do. American Express, Chase Sapphire, and Capital One often provide exclusive presales or cashback on entertainment purchases. Check your card’s benefits portal before buying.

Conclusion

Saving on event tickets in Long Beach isn’t a matter of chance—it’s a strategic process that combines timing, research, and smart use of available resources. Whether you’re attending a high-energy concert at the Peacock Theater, a family day at the Aquarium, or a cultural showcase at the Carpenter Center, the principles remain the same: plan ahead, leverage discounts, avoid unnecessary fees, and tap into community networks. By signing up for presales, using cashback platforms, volunteering, and exploring library passes, you can dramatically reduce your spending without sacrificing the quality of your experience. The city of Long Beach is rich with opportunities to enjoy world-class entertainment, and with these tools in your toolkit, you’ll be able to participate more often, more affordably, and more confidently. Start implementing these strategies today, and turn your next event into a win—not a financial burden.