The landscape of event planning has evolved, and offering different types of event tickets has become a vital aspect of ensuring your event stands out and attracts diverse audiences. With so many choices—from general admission to VIP experiences—it’s essential to know how to use these options effectively to maximize attendance.
We know that as event organizers, figuring out how best to utilize event ticket categories effectively can be a bit of a puzzle, but don’t worry—we’re here to help you put the pieces together.
In this article, we will learn about the importance of varied ticket offerings and show you how to make the most of them. We’ll also show you how to use Checkout Page to create eye-catching, user-friendly event pages in minutes that enable you to add a host of ticket types, discount codes and much more.
Why offer a variety of event ticket types?
Because offering a variety of ticket types can significantly enhance your event's success and appeal to a wider audience. Here are some of the top reasons why:
🤲 Broadening audience reach: Different ticket categories can accommodate attendees with varying budgets and preferences, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to participate.
🚀 Boosting revenue: Premium ticket types, such as VIP passes, can generate additional income, while discounted tickets can encourage early sales and boost attendance.
🦄 Providing a unique guest experience: Tailored ticket options can provide attendees with a more personalized and enjoyable experience, leading to positive word-of-mouth.
🙋🏻♀️ Increasing engagement: Themed promo code tickets and coded discount tickets can be used as part of your marketing strategy to attract specific audiences and incentivize sharing and referrals.
🤸🏽♂️ Agility in planning: Different ticket types can offer greater flexibility in planning and logistics, allowing you to manage crowd control effectively and allocate resources accurately.
How do I use different types of event tickets?
🔑 The key to using ticket types effectively is to evaluate your event's needs, characteristics, and venue features. To select the right ticket types, carefully consider your event's:
- Type of event: Is it a concert, corporate conference, festival, a retreat?
- Target audience: Who are you trying to attract?
- Goals: What are you trying to achieve with your event?
- Event venue and capacity: The size and layout of your venue will impact the types of tickets you can offer.
⭐ Remember, the key is to create a ticket category structure that aligns with your event's structure, goals and venue, and of course provides value to your attendees.
18 types of tickets + how to use them to maximize sales
Time to dive in and look at some ticket category names, most of which we are sure you’ll be familiar with but may be unsure how to use, or whether they are right for your event. We’ll walk you through a definition of each ticket type, how to use them and who they work best for!
1. General admission tickets
General admission tickets are a common type of event ticket that grants attendees access to an event without reserved seating or additional perks. These tickets typically allow attendees to enter the venue and participate in activities or performances, providing a cost-effective option for accessing events.
How to use general admission tickets
General admission tickets are primarily used when guests need only basic access to an event. They are ideal for events where multiple ticket tiers are available, such as VIP or all-access passes, offering guests the option to choose a more exclusive experience if desired. When allocating General admission ticket numbers it’s very important to consider your venue capacity.
What kinds of events use general admission ticket types?
These ticket categories are perfect for concerts, music festivals, fairs, and sporting events. They accommodate large crowds and allow attendees the freedom to explore and enjoy different areas of the venue. Event organizers can easily manage large crowds without the complexities of assigned seating.
2. Pre-sale tickets
Pre-sales tickets are made available before the general public sale, typically offered to individuals who have registered in advance or have attended previous events by the same organizer. These types of tickets offer dedicated customers the advantage of early access, often to secure popular event entries before they sell out during the general sale.
How to use pre-sales tickets
To purchase pre-sales tickets, interested attendees usually need to receive a special code or email invitation from you, the event organizer. This often requires a prior registration, membership/ loyalty program or a database of previous event ticket holders to market your pre-sales tickets to. These tickets are often offered at a discounted rate or at the early-bird rate if there is one.
What kinds of events use pre-sales ticket types?Pre-sales tickets are especially suited for high-demand events, such as concerts, theater performances, and sports events. They help event organizers gauge early interest and reward loyal attendees.
3. Super early-bird tickets
Super early bird discount tickets are a special type of ticket offered at a significantly reduced price, available at a limited number and for a limited period. This strategy is designed to reward the earliest purchasers and generate initial excitement and revenue well in advance of the event.
How to use super early-bird tickets
These tickets can usually be purchased during a limited time frame and often in limited quantities, encouraging quick decision-making from potential attendees. Interested buyers need to keep an eye out for announcements regarding these discounts, so it is important to make some noise about them via newsletters, social media, and your event's official channels.
What kinds of events use super early-bird ticket types?
Super early bird discount tickets are ideal for events such as repeating events such as conferences, festivals, and other large-scale events where early commitment and budget-friendly options are appealing to potential attendees. They also help organizers secure an upfront cash flow to support event planning and logistics - useful for events that require a long planning period.
4. Early bird tickets
Early bird tickets are discounted and available for purchase earlier than the standard ticket sales but at a higher price than super early bird tickets. This ticket type encourages early purchases over a more extended period, offering a compromise between savings and longer availability.
How to use early bird tickets
These types of tickets are available for a limited time and in larger quantities than super early bird options, giving attendees more leeway to plan ahead without missing out on discounts. Potential attendees should be reminded regularly about when this pricing starts and ends via your event’s social media channels and email marketing.
What kinds of events use this ticket type?
Early bird tickets are well-suited for various events, including conferences, exhibitions, festivals, and performances, where getting attendees to commit early can help with logistical and financial planning. This strategy can generate an early influx of attendees, providing funds for event preparation long before the event date.
5. Reserved seating tickets
Reserved seating tickets allow attendees to select and secure specific seats at an event. This ticket type is ideal for events where seating arrangement significantly impacts the experience, such as theater or cinema and concerts with seated only or partially seated arrangements. Offering attendees the opportunity to choose their seats ensures they have a clear view and a comfortable space tailored to their preferences or accessibility needs.
How to use reserved seating tickets
When offering reserved seating, event organizers will typically use event management platforms such as Cvent that feature tools for integrating floor plans and pricing. Organizers typically offer tiered pricing based on seat desirability—charging more for seats closer to the stage while offering more budget-friendly options further back.
What kinds of events use reserved seating ticket types?
Reserved seating tickets are most commonly used for events such as theater performances, talks, sports events, concerts, and similar occasions where all or most of the audience is seated, and comfort and visibility are crucial.
6. Multi-day tickets
Multi-day tickets provide attendees access to an event spanning multiple days, offering flexibility to choose the specific days they wish to attend. These tickets can cover the entire duration of an event or just selected days.
How to use multi-day tickets
These passes enable attendees to select which days they want to attend, often at a reduced rate compared to purchasing individual day tickets. Attendees are able to tailor their event to their interests and schedules, and this flexibility encourages higher ticket sales by removing barriers to attendance.
Organizers must ensure ticketing infrastructure is in place for verification on designated days.This can be achieved through technology such as ticket scanning, digital wristbands, or by employing sufficient staff to check standard wristbands at key access points.
What kinds of events use multi-day ticket types?
Multi-day tickets are essential for events like festivals, conferences, expos, and conventions where activities and sessions are spread over several days.
7. Single-day tickets
Single day tickets allow attendees access to a multi-day event on just one day, providing flexibility for those who may not want to commit to multiple days or don’t have the availability or budget. This ticket type is ideal for events with a variety of sessions or activities, ensuring that attendees can participate in exactly what interests them on that specific day.
How to use single day tickets
To maximize the effectiveness of single day tickets, event organizers need to clearly communicate the event schedule and ticket options to potential attendees. These tickets are typically sold at a set price for a specific day and can be purchased in advance or at the door, depending on the event. As with multi-day tickets, organizers should use ticket verification systems to manage entry on the event day effectively.
What kinds of events use single day ticket types?
Single-day tickets are typically used for a wide range of multi-day events, including festivals, expos, concerts, and conventions.They are especially beneficial for events that attract local attendees or those who might only want to see specific performances or sessions on a particular day. Events that are intimate such as retreats usually don’t use these tickets as they are designed around group community building over the full length of the event.
8. Discount code tickets
Who doesn’t love a discount code? They are a valuable marketing tool for event organizers, driving ticket sales and enhancing customer engagement. They create urgency for potential attendees to purchase tickets, increase audience reach with targeted discounts for specific demographics, and encourage referrals through shared promo codes.
How to use discount code tickets
Discount codes may be theme based (such as Black Friday or a holiday such as halloween) or reward friends and family of ticket holders with money off. Event organizers can promote these event ticket types through various channels, including email campaigns, social media, influencer partnerships, and collaborations with other events. A discount code campaign is a good way to boost ticket sales if they are lagging. Just ensure you don’t reduce your profit margin too much!
What kinds of events use discount code ticket types?
Almost every type of event can benefit from utilizing the discount code ticket category, as they appeal to all audiences and help drive ticket sales. From concerts and festivals to conferences and community gatherings, discount codes draw in attendees and enhance participation. Consumers are very familiar with using discount codes in various capacities such as online shopping, making them a trusted incentive.
9. VIP tickets
VIP event tickets offer a more exclusive experience compared to general admission tickets. These tickets often include priority access, dedicated areas, meet-and-greets with special guests, exclusive perks, and enhanced services. They are commonly used for events where exclusivity and prestige are highly valued, such as concerts, conferences, sporting events, and festivals.
How to use VIP tickets
To effectively sell VIP tickets, event organizers should clearly outline the exclusive benefits that come with these tickets. This may include early entry, access to VIP-only areas such as lounges or special seating sections, complimentary food and beverages, free gifts and opportunities to meet performers or speakers. Promoting VIP tickets through targeted marketing campaigns can attract attendees seeking an elevated experience. Ensure that the value offered aligns with the price.
What kinds of events use VIP ticket types?
VIP tickets are beneficial for a variety of events, including concerts featuring famous artists, speaking engagements with notable personalities, and exclusive product launches. They are ideal for events designed to create a lavish atmosphere, such as charity galas. Less exclusive events may also offer VIP bundles that include an exclusive goodie bag and drinks as well as a wristband that enables attendees to skip queues or gain access to the best viewing spots.
10. Family tickets
A family ticket is an option designed to accommodate families attending events together, typically offering access for multiple family members at a discounted rate. This type of pass makes it more affordable for families to participate in events and encourages higher attendance by providing an economical option that makes family outings more financially manageable.
How to use family tickets
Event organizers should clearly define the age and number of attendees that qualify for the pass, usually specifying adults and children. Promoting family passes through various marketing channels can help attract families, making it clear that the option is meant to enhance the experience for those attending together. It’s important to ensure that all family members have access to the same activities and amenities.
What kinds of events use family ticket types?
Family passes are commonly used for a wide range of events, including festivals, amusement parks, zoos, museums, and family-oriented concerts or theater performances. They appeal to families looking for cost-effective ways to enjoy outings together, making them a great option for events aimed at children, parents, and guardians.
11. Donation tickets
Donation tickets are a unique ticketing option that allow attendees to contribute to a cause or organization while gaining access to an event. These tickets are often priced at a suggested donation amount, giving attendees the flexibility to contribute more if they wish. Donation tickets not only help raise funds for charitable organizations but also engage participants in meaningful ways, often tying the event's purpose directly to a positive outcome for a cause.
How to use donation tickets
To effectively utilize donation tickets, event organizers should communicate the cause or purpose behind the tickets, making it clear how the funds will be used to benefit the community or support specific projects. Providing various suggested donation levels can encourage attendees to give at a level they are comfortable with, potentially increasing overall contributions.
It's essential to promote donation tickets through appropriate channels that resonate with the target audience, emphasizing the impact of their contributions by clearly expressing the mission of the charity or organization hosting the event.
What kinds of events use donation ticket types?
Donation tickets are commonly used for charity events, fundraising galas, community festivals, and nonprofit organization events. They can also be effective for benefit concerts or performances where proceeds support a specific charity or cause.
12. Hidden or invisible tickets
Hidden or invisible tickets designed for specific individuals, such as sponsors, VIPs, members of the press, or guest attendees. These tickets are not visible to the general public and can only be accessed by those provided with an access code. This exclusivity not only enhances the value of the tickets but also helps organizers control attendance and create a more intimate experience for special guests.
How to use hidden or invisible tickets
To effectively implement hidden tickets, event organizers should utilize event ticketing software that allows for the creation and management of access codes and guest lists. By setting up codes that allow only select people to view and purchase these tickets, organizers can maintain a level of exclusivity.
What kinds of events use hidden or invisible ticket types?
Hidden or invisible tickets are commonly used for high-profile events such as exclusive product launches, press previews, charity galas, or events that require special access for sponsors and partners.
13. Giveaway tickets
Giveaway tickets are complimentary tickets offered to attendees as part of a promotional campaign or event strategy. These tickets are typically provided for free, either through contests, social media promotions, partnerships, or as rewards for specific actions, such as signing up for a newsletter or following a brand on social media.
How to use giveaway tickets
Event organizers should create clear promotional campaigns that outline how attendees can enter to win or claim these tickets. This could include social media contests, collaborations with influencers, or engaging activities that encourage sharing and spreading the word about the event. Setting a limited quantity for the giveaway can create a sense of urgency and excitement.
What kinds of events use giveaway ticket types?
Giveaway tickets are commonly used for a variety of events, including festivals, concerts, launch parties, and community gatherings. They are particularly effective for events looking to boost attendance, create buzz, or attract new audiences.
14. Members-only tickets
Members-only tickets are available solely to individuals who belong to a particular group or organization, such as fans, subscribers, or loyalty program participants. These tickets often provide access to special events, early sales, or discounted rates as a benefit of membership. By offering members-only tickets, organizations can enhance the sense of community among members while incentivizing individuals to join or renew their memberships.
How to use members-only tickets
To effectively utilize members-only tickets, event organizers should establish clear eligibility criteria for membership and promote the benefits associated with joining. Communication through newsletters, social media, and the organization’s website can help raise awareness of these exclusive ticket offerings. Additionally, ticketing systems should be configured to require membership verification.
What kinds of events use members-only ticket types?
Members-only tickets are commonly used for a variety of events, including fan conventions, exclusive screenings at local cinemas, special promotional events, and member social or networking gatherings. These tickets help cultivate a sense of exclusivity, making members feel valued and fostering a stronger connection to the organization or community.
15. Virtual pass tickets
Virtual pass tickets are digital tickets that allow attendees to participate in events remotely, providing access to live streams, recorded sessions, or interactive online experiences. This ticket type enables organizations to reach a broader audience by accommodating those who may not be able to attend in person. Virtual pass tickets have become increasingly popular, especially in light of recent trends toward online and hybrid events.
How to use virtual pass tickets
Clear communication regarding what is included with the virtual pass—such as live streaming access, on-demand content, or interactive sessions—is essential. Organizers should also provide detailed instructions on how attendees can log in and access the event, creating a seamless experience. Promoting these tickets through various channels, such as social media, email newsletters, and partnerships, can help attract and inform potential virtual attendees.
What kinds of events use this ticket type?
Virtual pass tickets are used for conferences, webinars, workshops, concerts, and other events where online participation is feasible in terms of the event forma, and the organizers have the right technology for hosting online or hybrid event types.
16. Group tickets
Group packages are ticketing options designed for multiple attendees who wish to attend an event together, usually at a discounted price compared to purchasing individual tickets. This type of ticketing is appealing to families, friends, or organizations looking to attend events as a collective, making group outings more affordable and encouraging higher overall attendance.
How to use group packages
To effectively utilize group packages, event organizers should clearly define the number of attendees required to qualify for a group rate. Communication should emphasize the benefits of purchasing as a group, such as cost savings, reserved seating, or exclusive experiences.
What kinds of events use group ticket types?
Group packages are commonly utilized for concerts, festivals, sporting events, theater performances, and educational outings. They are particularly effective in appealing to schools, corporate groups, and recreational clubs looking for team-building experiences or community engagement.
17. Sliding scale tickets
Sliding scale tickets are a flexible pricing option that allows attendees to pay what they can afford within a specified range. This type of ticketing is designed to increase accessibility for individuals from diverse financial backgrounds, enabling them to participate in events without the barrier of fixed pricing. Sliding scale tickets reflect a commitment to inclusivity by accommodating varying levels of income.
How to use sliding scale tickets
Event organizers should clearly communicate the pricing structure, outlining the range of ticket prices available and the rationale behind this approach. Providing guidelines on how to choose a price based on personal circumstances can promote transparency and encourage participation. In addition, explaining the philosophy of the sliding scale model on your payment page can foster a sense of community support and understanding.
What kinds of events use sliding scale ticket types?
Sliding scale tickets are commonly used for workshops, community events, performances, and educational programs aimed at promoting equity and access. They are particularly beneficial for events within artistic, cultural, or social justice contexts, where the goal is to encourage broad participation regardless of financial means.
18. Tickets at the door
For those who value spontaneity, tickets at the door enable attendees to purchase tickets at the venue at the start of the event, rather than in advance. Offering tickets at the door can help increase attendance and accommodate those who could not commit in advance.
How to use tickets at the door
Event organizers should clearly communicate the availability of this option through promotional materials, social media, and the event’s website. It’s essential to specify any limitations, such as potential price differences compared to advance tickets or capacity constraints. Organizers must also ensure that there is adequate staffing and a process to handle on-the-spot purchases smoothly.
What kinds of events use at the door ticket types?
Tickets at the door are commonly utilized for music gigs, concerts, festivals, community events, and casual gatherings where spontaneous attendance is encouraged.
How do I create event ticket types with Checkout Page?
Thank you for staying with us as we explored 18 different types of tickets that could help you maximize sales for your event. As event organizers, we think you’ll love Checkout Page’s intuitive and easy-to-use event ticketing features, which empower you to create and sell as many ticket types as your heart desires.
Whether you’re looking to offer general admission, VIP experiences, or special promotions, our platform provides the flexibility and tools necessary to meet your ticketing needs and makes buying tickets a breeze for your attendees.
Let’s dive into how to effectively utilize the Checkout Page to bring your event ticketing vision to life!
Step 1: Create an event page
When you start out creating a checkout page, we give you the option of Event, Form or Checkout. Today we’re going for an Event:
Step 2. Add key event details
Next, you’ll be promoted to add key event details for your page, such as name, date duration, location and capacity:
Step 3: Add ticket types
Next, you’ll be invited to create your first ticket type, including ticket category name, description, price and quantity available, helping you manage venue capacity.
Step 4: Choose page layout
Select what kind of page you’d like and what the layout should be from the options displayed.
Step 5: Add ticket groups
Checkout Page has a ticket group option to help you organize your tickets better. In this example we’ve got a full weekend ticket group, and single day ticket group.
Step 6: Add ticket types
Under each group, you can add as many ticket types as you need, including price and number available. In this example we’ve added three types of weekend tickets.
Step 7: Create bulk discounts
Checkout Page has an option to create bulk discount rules either on total tickets or total of any ticket type so that you can offer discounts to group purchases.
Step 8: Create discount coupons
We’ve made it easy for you to create any number of discount codes to share with your audience. Decide on what percentage discount you want to offer and if you want to limit the amount of times a code can be applied.
Step 9: Preview your page
Use the preview page function at any time during your page editing process in order to see how your final page will look!
Step 10: Share and embed your page
When you are happy with your event page and feel ready to start selling your tickets, use the share and embed function to generate embed code, or a link which you can use on your social media platform or anywhere you interact with your audience!
Conclusion
This guide has highlighted the wide variety of event ticket options available and demonstrated how to use them to your advantage throughout the sales process to attract a broad audience. By understanding the benefits of each ticket type and how to best apply them to your unique event, you’ll boost your ticket sales and enhance your chances of achieving a sold-out event.
A well-designed checkout page that makes it easy for your attendees to see all their options when purchasing is key to ensuring a smooth ticket purchasing experience, allowing you to focus on creating the unforgettable event your attendees deserve.
If you’d like to see how easy it is to create an event page of your own, sign up for a free trial, no card needed!
To get you going, you can even use our template shown in the step-by-step guide above (we are generous like that 😁).
Looking for more ways to ensure your event tickets sell like hot cakes? Check out our article 5 proven tactics to increase event ticket sales and sell out your next event
Evaluating which ticket platform is going to best serve your event? We’ve got you covered with Best event ticketing platforms {2024]
