How to Visit the Long Beach Symphony Cheaply

The Long Beach Symphony Orchestra is one of Southern California’s most cherished cultural institutions, offering world-class performances of classical masterpieces, contemporary compositions, and family-friendly concerts in the heart of downtown Long Beach. For music lovers, attending a live symphony performance is an unforgettable experience — but the cost of tickets, parking, and associated expenses can make it feel out of reach for many. The good news? With strategic planning, insider knowledge, and smart resource use, you can enjoy the full majesty of the Long Beach Symphony without overspending. This guide reveals exactly how to visit the Long Beach Symphony cheaply, without sacrificing quality, comfort, or the magic of live orchestral music.

Whether you’re a student, a senior, a local resident on a budget, or simply someone who values the arts but needs to be fiscally responsible, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every practical step, tool, and tactic to make your symphony experience affordable. You’ll learn how to access discounted tickets, take advantage of free events, leverage community partnerships, and even earn rewards that reduce future costs. By the end, you’ll not only know how to attend the Long Beach Symphony on a budget — you’ll know how to make it a regular part of your cultural life.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Season Schedule Early

The first step to visiting the Long Beach Symphony cheaply is understanding what’s on offer and when. The orchestra typically announces its full season schedule — including classical concerts, pops performances, and family series — between April and June for the following season. Visit the official Long Beach Symphony website and sign up for their email newsletter. This ensures you receive early access to ticket sales, special promotions, and last-minute availability.

Early research allows you to plan ahead for the most affordable concert options. For example, the “Family Series” concerts are designed for younger audiences and often cost 50% less than mainstage performances. Similarly, “Previews” or “Rehearsal Tickets” — sometimes offered at a steep discount — give you a behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra in action before the official performance.

2. Sign Up for Student and Youth Discounts

Students — from high school through graduate programs — can often access deeply discounted tickets. The Long Beach Symphony offers a “Student Rush” program, where valid student ID holders can purchase remaining seats for as little as $10 to $15, typically available one hour before showtime. These seats are subject to availability, so arrive early and be prepared to wait in line.

Additionally, many local colleges and universities partner with the symphony to offer free or reduced-price tickets to enrolled students. Check with your school’s student activities office or arts department. Some institutions even provide complimentary transportation to performances.

3. Explore Senior and Military Discounts

Adults aged 62 and older qualify for discounted ticket pricing on select concerts. These discounts typically range from 15% to 30% off regular prices. When purchasing tickets online or over the phone, look for a “Senior” option in the ticket type dropdown menu. If it’s not visible, call the box office directly and ask — many discounts are not advertised prominently but are available upon request.

Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their immediate family members are also eligible for special pricing. The Long Beach Symphony participates in the nationally recognized “TICKET TO THE ARMY” program, which offers up to 50% off tickets. Bring your military ID to the box office or present it during online checkout when prompted.

4. Utilize Community and Nonprofit Partnerships

The Long Beach Symphony collaborates with local nonprofits, libraries, and community centers to provide access to underserved populations. Organizations like the Long Beach Public Library, United Way, and local food banks often receive complimentary or deeply discounted tickets to distribute to their clients.

If you’re connected to any nonprofit or community group, ask if they have access to symphony tickets. Even if you’re not a direct recipient, many of these organizations hold raffles or giveaways for members. Attend their events — you might win free tickets to a concert.

5. Attend Free Outdoor and Community Performances

One of the best ways to experience the Long Beach Symphony for free is to attend their outdoor summer concerts. Each year, the orchestra performs at multiple public venues including the Long Beach Waterfront, Bluff Park, and various city parks. These “Symphony in the Park” events are completely free and open to the public.

Bring a picnic blanket, some snacks, and arrive early to secure a good spot. These performances often feature lighter, crowd-pleasing repertoire — think movie themes, Broadway tunes, and patriotic favorites — making them ideal for families and casual listeners. While not a full orchestral season concert, they offer the same musicians, same energy, and zero cost.

6. Use Ticket Exchange and Discount Platforms

Third-party ticket platforms like TodayTix, Goldstar, and BroadwayBox occasionally list discounted Long Beach Symphony tickets. These sites specialize in last-minute deals and unsold inventory. Set up alerts for “Long Beach Symphony” on these apps to receive notifications when tickets drop in price.

Additionally, check the Long Beach Symphony’s own “Last Minute Tickets” page. Every Friday, they release a limited number of $10 tickets for that weekend’s performances. These are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and often sell out within minutes. Bookmark the page and set a phone alarm for 10 a.m. on Fridays.

7. Join the Symphony’s Loyalty or Membership Program

The Long Beach Symphony offers a “Friends of the Symphony” membership program. While it requires a small annual fee (typically $50–$75), members receive substantial benefits: priority seating, 20% off all ticket purchases, free ticket exchanges, invitations to exclusive pre-concert talks, and discounted parking.

For frequent attendees, this program pays for itself after just two or three concerts. Consider it an investment in your cultural access. If you plan to attend more than three concerts per season, membership is the most cost-effective route.

8. Carpool and Use Public Transit to Save on Parking

Parking near the Long Beach Performing Arts Center can cost $10–$15 per vehicle. That’s money you can redirect toward tickets. Instead, coordinate with friends or neighbors to carpool. Splitting parking and gas costs reduces your per-person expense significantly.

Alternatively, use public transit. The Long Beach Transit bus system (Route 1, 4, and 10) stops within a five-minute walk of the venue. The Metro C Line (Green Line) also connects to downtown Long Beach via the Willow Street Station. A one-way fare is just $1.75, and with a reusable TAP card, you can transfer for free within two hours. Many local libraries offer free TAP card distribution — ask for one when you visit.

9. Attend Rehearsal Openings and Educational Events

One of the most underutilized opportunities is attending open rehearsals. The Long Beach Symphony occasionally invites the public to observe full dress rehearsals before major performances. These are free, often held on weekday afternoons, and provide a rare glimpse into the creative process.

Rehearsals are less polished than final performances — you might hear the conductor stop and restart sections — but the musicianship remains exceptional. You’ll also gain deeper appreciation for the complexity of orchestral music. Check the calendar on the symphony’s website or call ahead to confirm availability.

10. Volunteer for Event Support

Many arts organizations offer complimentary tickets in exchange for volunteer hours. The Long Beach Symphony relies on volunteers for ushering, guest services, and event setup. In return, volunteers often receive free admission to the concert they help with, plus a complimentary program.

Volunteering is also a great way to meet fellow music lovers and become part of the symphony’s community. Visit the “Get Involved” section of their website to apply. No prior experience is needed — just enthusiasm and reliability.

Best Practices

Plan Your Visit Around Off-Peak Days

Concerts on Thursday or Sunday evenings typically have lower demand than Friday or Saturday nights. As a result, ticket prices are often lower, and seating is more available. Even if you’re not attending a discounted ticket sale, choosing an off-peak night gives you more flexibility to upgrade seats or add extras like a pre-concert dessert.

Buy Tickets in Series, Not Single Concerts

Buying a full season subscription or a mini-series (3–5 concerts) almost always costs less per ticket than purchasing individual seats. Subscribers often receive up to 30% off the regular price, plus free exchanges and no service fees. If you know you’ll attend at least three concerts, a series pass is the smartest financial move.

Arrive Early for Last-Minute Deals

Many venues release unsold tickets at the door 30–60 minutes before curtain. These are often sold at 50% off or even free. Show up early, speak to the box office staff politely, and ask if any complimentary or discounted tickets are available. Don’t assume they’re gone — many go unclaimed.

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Concession stands at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center offer overpriced drinks and snacks. A bottle of water might cost $6, and a pretzel $8. Instead, bring your own water in a reusable bottle (empty it before security screening) and pack a small snack like granola bars or fruit. Many venues allow this, especially for family and outdoor events.

Use Library Resources for Free Concert Recordings

While not a substitute for live performance, public libraries often offer free access to streaming platforms like Kanopy, Hoopla, and Naxos Music Library. These include recordings of the Long Beach Symphony and other world-class orchestras. Use these to familiarize yourself with upcoming repertoire — you’ll appreciate the live performance even more.

Follow the Symphony on Social Media for Flash Sales

Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are the most common channels for last-minute ticket giveaways and flash sales. The Long Beach Symphony frequently posts “24-Hour Flash Sale” announcements, offering 40–60% off select seats. Follow them, turn on notifications, and act quickly when you see one.

Attend Pre-Concert Talks for Free

Many performances include a 30-minute “Meet the Music” talk led by the conductor or a musicologist. These are free with your ticket and take place in the lobby or a side hall before the concert. They’re educational, engaging, and help you understand the pieces you’re about to hear. Don’t skip them — they add tremendous value to your experience.

Consider Off-Season Visits

The Long Beach Symphony’s busiest season runs from October to May. During the summer months, they often perform fewer concerts, which means less competition for tickets and sometimes special “Summer Series” pricing. Even if you’re only able to attend one concert per year, timing it for July or August can yield better deals.

Know Your Seat Options

Not all seats are created equal. Orchestra-level seats near the center offer the best acoustics but come at a premium. Balcony or mezzanine seats, while farther from the stage, can be 40–50% cheaper and still provide an excellent listening experience. For many, the difference in sound quality is negligible — especially with modern acoustics. Prioritize value over prestige.

Track Your Spending and Set a Budget

Treat your symphony visits like a monthly entertainment budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend per concert — $25, $50, or $100 — and stick to it. Use a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app to track your spending. This prevents impulse buys and ensures you can attend regularly without financial strain.

Tools and Resources

Official Long Beach Symphony Website

www.longbeachsymphony.org is your primary resource. It contains the full season calendar, ticket purchasing portal, discount eligibility details, and contact information for special requests. Bookmark it and check it weekly.

TodayTix and Goldstar Apps

These mobile apps aggregate discounted tickets for performing arts events across the U.S. Set up alerts for “Long Beach Symphony” and enable push notifications. Both apps offer mobile ticketing, so you can skip the box office line entirely.

Library Access to Streaming Music

Use your local library card to access Kanopy (via longbeachlibrary.org) and Naxos Music Library. Both offer high-quality recordings of symphonic works, including past Long Beach Symphony performances. Great for pre-listening or on-the-go enrichment.

Long Beach Transit App

Download the Long Beach Transit app to plan your route, check real-time bus arrivals, and purchase digital passes. The app also features a “Ride Free” promotion during special events — keep an eye out.

Google Calendar Integration

Subscribe to the Long Beach Symphony’s public calendar feed (available on their website). This syncs all concert dates directly to your phone or computer calendar, so you never miss a ticket sale or deadline.

Facebook Groups and Local Community Boards

Join groups like “Long Beach Arts Lovers” or “Southern California Classical Music Fans.” Members often post about free tickets, group discounts, or carpool opportunities. These communities are active and supportive.

Student Discount Platforms

Use UNiDAYS or Student Beans to verify your student status and unlock discounts at select venues. While not all symphony tickets are listed here, it’s worth checking — especially for partnered events.

Bank and Credit Card Perks

Some local banks and credit unions — such as Navy Federal Credit Union or Bank of the West — offer exclusive discounts on cultural events for their members. Check your cardholder benefits portal or call your financial institution to ask about arts partnerships.

VolunteerMatch.org

This platform lists volunteer opportunities at arts organizations across the country. Search for “Long Beach Symphony” to find current openings. Volunteering is a powerful way to earn free tickets while giving back.

Meetup.com

Search for “Long Beach Symphony” on Meetup.com. There are often groups that organize group outings to concerts — splitting costs, sharing rides, and enhancing the social experience. Joining one can turn a solo outing into a community event.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, a College Student

Maria, a 20-year-old music major at California State University, Long Beach, wanted to attend the November “Beethoven’s Fifth” concert but couldn’t afford the $75 ticket. She signed up for the Student Rush program, arrived at the venue 90 minutes early, and purchased a $12 seat in the back balcony. She also used her library card to stream Beethoven’s symphonies beforehand and attended the free pre-concert talk. Her total cost: $12. She wrote a reflection paper on the experience for her music history class — earning an A+.

Example 2: The Ramirez Family

The Ramirez family — parents and two children — wanted to attend the “Holiday Pops” concert. Instead of buying four full-price tickets ($320), they waited for the “Family Pack” promotion, which offered two adult and two youth tickets for $60. They carpooled with neighbors, brought homemade cookies, and rode the bus. Total cost: $60. The children were so inspired they started violin lessons the next month.

Example 3: James, a Retired Veteran

James, a 71-year-old veteran, attends the Long Beach Symphony every season. He uses his veteran discount to buy tickets at 40% off. He volunteers as an usher twice a year, which earns him free tickets for those events. He also receives free parking passes through his VA healthcare provider. Last year, he attended 8 concerts at a total cost of $98 — less than $13 per show.

Example 4: The Arts Enthusiast Club

A group of six friends in Long Beach formed a “Symphony Circle.” Each month, one person hosts a pre-concert gathering at their home with themed snacks and music discussion. They pool money to buy a season pass, split parking costs, and rotate who brings the program. Their per-person cost for five concerts: $45 each. They’ve been doing it for three years and now host a yearly “Symphony Picnic” at the park.

Example 5: The Library Patron

Linda, a retired librarian, never bought a ticket until she discovered the Long Beach Symphony’s free summer concerts. She started attending every “Symphony in the Park” event, brought her grandchildren, and eventually joined the Friends of the Symphony program. She now attends 8 concerts a year, mostly through discounts, volunteering, and library partnerships. Her total annual spending on symphony events: $30.

FAQs

Can I really get free tickets to the Long Beach Symphony?

Yes. Free tickets are available through volunteer programs, community partnerships, library giveaways, and outdoor summer concerts. While full indoor season concerts rarely offer free admission, the alternatives are rich and rewarding.

Are student discounts available for all concerts?

Student discounts are typically available for mainstage and family concerts, but may not apply to special galas or fundraising events. Always check the ticket page or call ahead to confirm eligibility.

What if I can’t afford even the discounted tickets?

If you’re experiencing financial hardship, contact the Long Beach Symphony’s community outreach department. They have a limited fund for hardship-based ticket assistance and may be able to provide free admission upon request.

Do I need to be a Long Beach resident to get discounts?

No. Most discounts — including student, senior, military, and group rates — are available to anyone, regardless of residency. However, some local partnerships (like library giveaways) may prioritize residents.

Can I bring children to symphony concerts?

Absolutely. The Long Beach Symphony offers dedicated family concerts designed for ages 5 and up. For mainstage concerts, children under 6 are not recommended due to length and volume. Always check the event description for age guidelines.

Is parking ever free at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center?

On rare occasions — such as during city-sponsored cultural events — parking may be free. Otherwise, plan to pay. Use public transit or carpool to avoid this cost entirely.

How far in advance should I buy tickets to get the best price?

Buy early for series subscriptions (usually 6–8 months ahead). For single tickets, wait until the Friday before the concert for last-minute deals. Avoid buying during peak sales periods like holidays.

Can I resell my tickets if I can’t attend?

The Long Beach Symphony allows ticket exchanges for a small fee, but not resale. If you can’t make it, contact the box office — they may be able to donate your ticket to a community organization.

Are there any hidden fees when buying tickets online?

Yes. Online purchases often include service fees of $5–$10 per ticket. To avoid these, buy in person at the box office or through a membership program that waives fees.

What if I miss a concert I already paid for?

If you’re a member or subscriber, you can usually exchange your ticket for another date within the same season. Non-members may be charged a fee. Always read the refund and exchange policy before purchasing.

Conclusion

Visiting the Long Beach Symphony cheaply isn’t about cutting corners — it’s about making intentional, informed choices that align with your values and budget. The magic of live orchestral music doesn’t come from the price tag on your ticket. It comes from the resonance of strings, the swell of brass, the silence between notes, and the shared humanity of an audience listening as one.

By using student discounts, attending free outdoor concerts, volunteering, carpooling, and leveraging community resources, you can enjoy the full spectrum of the Long Beach Symphony’s offerings without financial stress. The tools are available. The opportunities are real. And the rewards — a deeper connection to art, culture, and community — are priceless.

Start today. Sign up for the newsletter. Check your library’s digital catalog. Call your local arts council. Attend one free concert this month. Let your first step be small, but let it be decisive. The symphony isn’t just for those who can afford it — it’s for everyone who listens.