How and When Ticketmaster Releases Tickets: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to buying tickets for popular events, few platforms are as dominant as Ticketmaster. But if you’ve ever refreshed a Ticketmaster page endlessly waiting for tickets to drop, or wondered whether more seats might become available later, you're not alone. The process of ticket releases can seem mysterious, especially when high-demand events sell out in seconds.

This blog dives into all aspects of how Ticketmaster releases tickets, how long it takes, when they release more tickets, and whether you should check back on the day of the show.

How Does Ticketmaster Release Tickets?

Ticketmaster doesn't release all tickets at once. In fact, the way it releases tickets can vary depending on the event, venue, and even the artist or team involved. Here are the most common ways Ticketmaster releases tickets:

1. Initial Public Onsale

This is the main ticket drop that’s usually announced in advance. It’s the moment tickets first become available to the general public. Onsale times are often scheduled at 10:00 AM local time, and queues open shortly before the actual drop.

2. Presales

Before the public onsale, there are often presale periods. These can include:

Artist presales for fan club members
Venue presales
Radio station presales
Credit card holder presales (e.g., Citi or American Express) Each presale gets a portion of the overall ticket inventory.

3. Planned Ticket Holds

Ticketmaster often holds back a portion of tickets. These are reserved for various purposes like:

VIPs or friends and family of performers
Technical holds (in case camera or sound equipment blocks view)
Potential promotions or contests

These held tickets may be released later if they’re not used.

4. Dynamic Pricing

Some tickets are subject to Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing model, especially for concerts or events with high demand. Prices may adjust based on supply and demand, making some seats available later if demand drops.

When Does Ticketmaster Release Tickets?

There’s no universal time for ticket releases, but there are some standard patterns: when does ticketmaster release tickets

1. Presale and Onsale Times

Typically, both presale and general onsale tickets go live at 10:00 AM or 12:00 PM local time. These times are announced well in advance on the event page.

2. Rolling Releases

Ticketmaster sometimes releases tickets in waves. Not every ticket appears at once, even during onsale periods. This is often to:

Prevent bots from snatching all tickets instantly
Gauge demand and adjust inventory
Release more tickets as holds are removed

3. Day-of-Show Releases

Yes — Ticketmaster does release tickets the day of the show in many cases. These might be:

Production holds that become unnecessary
Last-minute returns from partners
Resale tickets from fans unable to attend

How Long Does It Take Ticketmaster to Release Tickets?

The duration for Ticketmaster to release tickets depends on the type of release. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Instant Release During Onsale

For most onsale events, tickets are released instantly once the onsale begins. But not all tickets are released simultaneously, even during this period.

2. Staggered Release Over Weeks

Some events gradually release additional tickets over days or even weeks. This keeps interest high and allows for demand-based pricing.

3. Last-Minute Drops

Many shows see last-minute ticket drops 24–48 hours before the event, and sometimes even minutes before doors open.

So if you missed out on the initial drop, don’t lose hope—Ticketmaster often releases more tickets closer to the event date.

How Close to the Show Does Ticketmaster Release Tickets?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions, and for good reason. Many fans want to know if they should wait it out. how close to show does ticketmaster release tickets

1. Same-Day Ticket Releases

Yes, Ticketmaster often releases tickets on the same day as the show. These can be:

Production holds that are no longer needed
Returned tickets from sponsors or media
Last-minute seat map adjustments

These tickets are usually limited, but sometimes they’re incredible seats — even front row or VIP!

2. 12–48 Hours Before the Event

Some ticket releases occur one or two days before the show. This is especially common for larger venues where there are more moving parts, such as camera setups or obstructed-view seats that become usable.

3. Hour-Of-Show Drops

For major concerts or sporting events, some tickets become available as late as an hour before showtime. It's worth checking Ticketmaster right up to showtime.

Does Ticketmaster Release More Tickets?

Yes — Ticketmaster frequently releases more tickets, even after the event appears sold out.

Here are the most common scenarios when more tickets are released:

1. As Holds Are Released

Tickets held for production, sponsors, or venue personnel are sometimes returned to the pool. This can happen at various times between the initial onsale and the event date.

2. Fan-to-Fan Resale

If someone who bought a ticket can’t attend, they may list it for resale on Ticketmaster’s verified resale platform. These tickets show up mixed with standard ones and can appear at any time.

3. Demand Adjustments

If a show isn’t selling as quickly as expected, Ticketmaster may open up more sections or release less desirable seats.

Will Ticketmaster Release More Tickets Closer to the Event?

Absolutely — this is actually very common. The closer you get to the event, the more likely you are to see:

Released hold tickets
Returned VIP/comped tickets
Obstructed-view seats that become available

It’s also when Ticketmaster’s Fan Exchange heats up with resale tickets being listed by other fans.

So while it might seem risky to wait, many savvy buyers score great last-minute tickets this way.

Does Ticketmaster Release Tickets the Day of the Show?

Yes, Ticketmaster Often Releases Tickets on Show Day.

This happens more than people realize. The day of the show, the following can occur:

Extra tickets get released as final seat maps are confirmed
Ticket holders list their tickets for resale at lower prices
Holdbacks from artists, promoters, or venues are returned

If you're willing to wait, checking Ticketmaster the morning of the event or a few hours before showtime can result in scoring last-minute gems.

However, it’s a gamble — you might miss out entirely if no new tickets drop or demand skyrockets. But it’s a strategy that’s worked for many concertgoers and sports fans alike.

Tips for Scoring Ticketmaster Releases

Now that you understand how Ticketmaster releases tickets, here are some pro tips:

1. Set Up a Verified Account Early

Make sure your payment method is ready and your profile is set up ahead of time.

2. Join Presales

3. Use Multiple Devices

4. Check Back Often

Don’t just look once. Check the Ticketmaster event page daily as new tickets could drop anytime.

5. Be Ready on Show Day

If you missed out, get ready the morning of the show. New tickets and resale listings often appear then.

6. Be Flexible

If you’re willing to sit further from the stage or accept an obstructed view, you may find last-minute deals others avoid.

Final Thoughts

So, how does Ticketmaster release tickets? In a nutshell: gradually, strategically, and often unpredictably. Tickets can appear weeks in advance or just hours before an event. Even if a show sells out, more tickets may be released closer to the date, including day-of-show drops.

Whether you’re planning months ahead or trying to score a last-minute seat, knowing how Ticketmaster works can give you the upper hand. Keep checking, stay alert for announcements, and be persistent.

TL;DR:

Ticketmaster releases tickets in phases: presales, general onsale, holdbacks, and last-minute drops.
More tickets can be released closer to the show, including the day of the event.
Don’t give up if an event is “sold out” — seats often become available again.
Stay ready and keep refreshing — you just might land the perfect ticket.

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