There’s nothing great like the electric atmosphere of a live concert. However, the uncertainty over whether the venue’s accessible seats will meet their needs frequently dampens the excitement of fans with disabilities.
And they might ask, Can you buy handicap concert tickets that ensure an unobstructed view and comfort? Absolutely! Our guide is your key to unlocking a seamless live music experience.
Understanding Accessible Seating: Definitions and Rights
What is Accessible Seating?
Accessible seating is a game-changer for many disabled people who want to enjoy concerts. These seats are designed to accommodate individuals who use wheelchairs or have other mobility concerns. They are typically located in prime areas that are easier to reach and may offer additional space for wheelchairs or service animals.
Accessible seating is a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring all fans enjoy the event equally. The ADA Standards for Accessible Design provide clear guidelines on what constitutes accessible seating and secure venues to meet the needs of all people.
The Importance of Accessible Seating
Like any other place, an accessible seat in a concern is essential. It not only helps disabled people book a spot but also provides the necessary space and, often, a better outlook, ensuring that the live music experience is genuinely inclusive.
The Variety of Accessible Seating Options
From wheelchair-accessible seats to designated aisle seats, venues offer a range of options.
These assigned seats may include features like clear floor space for mobility devices and companion seating to enjoy the event with friends and family.
ADA and Concert Tickets
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a significant role in the concert-going experience, especially when purchasing tickets. The federal law mandates that public accommodations, like concert venues, must provide equal access to disabled individuals. It includes accessible seating, parking, and restrooms.
ADA compliance affects not just the physical layout of venues but also the ticket sales process. Platforms and ticket sellers must ensure that a portion of their tickets are allocated for accessible seating.
It ensures that individuals with disabilities have an equal opportunity to attend and enjoy live events.
How to Purchase Accessible Seats for Concerts: Step-by-Step Guide
Purchasing accessible seating tickets is a straightforward process, but with these steps, you can ensure a more accessible and enjoyable concert experience.
Research the Venue
Start by researching the venue where the concert will be held. Each venue has its own layout and accessibility features, so it’s important to know what to expect in advance. Also, it will provide details about purchasing multiple tickets in the case of groups.
Finding the Ticket Vendor
Find out which ticket provider is selling tickets for the event. They could be any of the following:
Ticketmaster and Similar Vendors
Platforms like Ticketmaster make it relatively simple to find and purchase accessible seats. You can filter the search results on their website to show only accessible seating options. It’s crucial to use the same methods and have access to the same selection of seats as any other patron, ensuring equal opportunity.
Kate Ringland shared a tutorial on buying tickets, particularly regarding accessible seating.
Secondary Ticket Market
The secondary ticket market refers to the resale of tickets through platforms other than the original vendor. These markets are more complex. Sites like StubHub or SeatGeek also sell accessible tickets, but verifying the details and ensuring they meet your needs is essential.
Always look for guarantees of authenticity and transparent information on accessible features to avoid surprises on the event day.
At the Venue: Box Office Purchases
If you prefer to buy tickets in person, the venue’s box office must sell accessible seating under the same conditions as other tickets. It includes pre-sales and general sales, ensuring access to accessible seats without hassle.
It is recommended to contact the venue in advance to confirm their availability and any specific accessibility needs you may have.
Remember, if you require assistance or have specific questions, the box office staff will ensure you get the support you need.
Look For Accessibility Information
On the ticket provider’s website, look for a section dedicated to accessibility. The section should provide information on how to purchase tickets for accessible seats.
If you have specific questions or needs, don’t hesitate to contact the ticket provider or the venue’s customer service team. They can provide detailed information and assist you in securing the right seats.
Confirm the Selection
Once you’ve selected your seats, make sure to review and confirm all details before completing your purchase.
Other Tips and Tricks
Here are some of the best tips to book an accessible ticket and seat:
Early Booking for Accessible Seats
To secure accessible seating, booking tickets as early as possible is advisable. Popular events can see these specific tickets sell out quickly. Early booking secures a spot and gives more options regarding seating preferences and companion seats.
Checking for Pre-Sales and Offers
Look for pre-sales and special offers, sometimes providing early access to accessible seat tickets. Joining fan clubs or subscribing to venue newsletters can be a great way to stay informed about these opportunities.
Look for Companion Seating
If you’re attending with someone, check the policy for companion seating. It ensures that individuals requiring accessible seats can enjoy the event with a friend or family member, enhancing their experience and providing necessary support. Most venues allow at least one companion to sit with you in the accessible seating area.
FAQs: Addressing Common Questions
Can people in a wheelchair go to a concert?
People in wheelchairs can and should enjoy concerts. Venues must provide wheelchair-accessible seats and features, ensuring that attending a concert is an inclusive experience for individuals who use wheelchairs.
What does ADA mean when buying concert tickets?
When buying concert tickets, ADA refers to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires venues to sell accessible tickets, providing equal access to disabled individuals. It ensures that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy live events.
Can normal people sit in wheelchair-accessible seats?
Wheelchair-accessible seats are reserved for individuals with disabilities and their companions. However, if a venue has remaining accessible seats close to the event time, they may be sold to the general public to ensure total capacity is reached.
To know more about it, we already have a well-written article on buying wheelchair-accessible seats if you’re not handicapped.
Dealing with Sold-Out Scenarios
If you’re faced with such a situation, keep hope. Reach out to the venue or ticketing service immediately—there may be accessible seats not listed online.
Another issue is the risk of accessible seats being purchased fraudulently. Venues are implementing stricter verification procedures to address accessibility issues. At the time of purchase or entry, proof of eligibility for accessible seating may be needed. It ensures that spaces are given to people who need them, which is what accessible seating is supposed to do.
Concert Experience for Wheelchair Users
Here are real-life stories highlighting the importance of accessible concert seating and how it enhances their experience.
Lindsay shares her experiences and insights about securing wheelchair-accessible seats at the venue.
Richard, who has paraplegia, shared his whole journey of attending a concert in a wheelchair. The concert video begins at 17:00.
Tony Billy, a user on the forum, shared his experiences attending concerts and music tours, often securing prime spots close to the stage. He attended the Roc-the-Mic Tour and saw artists like Busta Rhymes, Black Eyed Peas, and Ghostface Killah. A memorable experience was gaining backstage access at an Anthrax concert. He adds that I’ve never had to wait in line at any venue.
Conclusion
Purchasing handicapped concert tickets requires some planning and research, but it’s a process that can be navigated successfully with the correct information. By understanding the venue’s accessibility features, booking early, and communicating your needs, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable concert experience.
Remember, music is a universal joy, and concert venues increasingly recognize the importance of making such pleasure accessible to all.
