This U2 General Admission (GA) Guide has been updated for the U2: UV opening weekend in Las Vegas. I attended the opening weekend of the U2:UV residency at the Sphere and documented what to expect. And yes, the venue does respect the fan-led GA line and look at our numbers in order to assign numbered venue wristbands.
Ever since I began seeing U2 concerts during the Elevation Tour, I have preferred watching the band from GA. For those unfamiliar with GA – it is a concert ticket on the floor that is first-come-first-serve. But the GA is more than just a ticket. Because it is first-come-first-serve, there is the inevitable situation where dedicated fans queue (line) up early, in order to secure a good place on the floor near the stage. Some cities have fans line up over night, while others wait for days. Indeed, a community of fans have arisen out of these U2 queues. As such, norms, understandings, and expectations have developed over time by fans on what to expect when we line up for general admission. I should stress that these are not my rules or anybody else’s set rules, this is a collection of observations I’ve noticed in 90+ GA lines I’ve seen around the world throughout Europe, North America, Australia/New Zealand, and South America.
This is my “Guide” to the U2 General Admission Queue. While I outline several aspects of general admission, I do highlight some of the ‘not-so-pleasant’ things of queuing up. But in the end, it is important to remember that seeing a U2 show through GA is an amazing experience all together – for the fellow fans you meet, the music we hear, and the tribal community that gathers.
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Time to Arrive in the Queue
- The Check-In and Number System
- Morning of the Queue
- Back-to-back shows and the GA
- Saving Spots in the Queue
- Fanclub Membership Line Does Not Exist
- Security Checks
- What happens when doors open at 6PM?
- What is it like on the Floor
- Where is the best spot on the floor to see U2?
- What if I arrive in the GA much later?
- Pitfalls of the GA
- Conclusion: GA Adds to the U2 Concert Experience
1) Introduction
Thinking back on all the U2 concerts I’ve been to (the vast majority of which were through the GA) I thought it would be fun to post a ‘Guide to the U2 GA Queue’. This page is not for everyone and is really intended for those who plan on queuing up early – for whatever reason they so choose. Maybe because they want to get to the front or ensure they will end up on the floor. I’ve received a few questions about this topic and felt a special page was warranted.
I find the whole GA queue to be more than just trying to get to the front or in the pit. I find the GA line to be a great U2 community experience, and a wonderful way to make new friends. These are friends I’ve remained in touch with since Elevation, Vertigo, 360°, iNNOCENCE + eXPERIENCE, and Joshua Tree tours, as well as the U2:UV residency. This may explain why out of all of the shows I will see during a U2 tour, all will be through GA. For me, there’s no other way but GA!
2) Time to Arrive in the Queue
Q: What time should I show up to the queue?
A: It depends on where you want to be on the floor and type of show. To be clear, you don’t have to line up, if you feel it’s not that important to be near the front, and prefer to hang out in the back or sides. It’s still an an amazing show where ever you are in the Sphere.
If you do want to get near the front, important to note this is just a rough estimate and vary between concerts. For example, lines will start earlier and be longer for the opening and closing shows, and weekend concerts. Lines may be smaller for mid-week shows.
I advise people to visit the venue at least 1-2 days before the concert to see what’s going on with the queue.
- 1-2 Days Before the Show
- If you want to maximize your chances for being in the first or second rows, look out for the queue 1-2 days in advance.
- This is how the ‘GA Crazies’, ‘GA Hardcores’, or what I prefer to call, the ‘GA International Traveling Contingent’ often do. So if you want to join or get ahead of them, keep your eye on the GA 1-2 days in advance.
- Why do I like going close to the front? I’m not too tall and like to have a clear view of the stage. I also like taking photos, so being along the rail makes photography easier.
- Morning of the Show
- I estimate you would be third row or so.
- Afternoon of the Show
- You may be five rows off the rail.
- 6PM to Showtime
- While the GA floor is rather narrow, with most of the space near Bono and Edge clustered with fans, there is plenty of dancing space on the wide ends of the GA floor, particularly on Adam’s side.
3) The Check-In and Number System
Because the Sphere stated that there would be no camping or queues, a “check-in” system has been adopted by fans, which has been used since 2009, and common-place since 2015 around North America, Australia/New Zealand, and parts of Europe and Great Britain.
How the Check-In System Works:
Usually, venues allow a few people to manage the queue by collecting names in a book and writing numbers on people’s hands. These are self-appointed fans, not ones chosen by U2 management or the venue, who started the queue themselves and put together “rules”. Fans arriving thereafter are put a list and given numbers on their hands via a marker, and asked to return at periodic times to check-in (e.g. 9AM, 5PM the day before; and 6AM show day). If you don’t show up at any of the check-in times, you are crossed off the list. The morning of the show, there’s a ‘roll-call’ for everyone to be there in person (i.e. they go down the list to make sure you are there at the time). In Las Vegas, this has tended to be at 6:00AM on show day. If people were not in person or there during check-in times and during the final roll-call, they were taken off the queue list and are not able to re-join the queue and would have to go to the back of the line. This was effective during Las Vegas (360 Tour) (see below), where security cooperated completely, and actually kicked late-comers out. Since then, security have been largely hands off, but on the morning of the show, they recognized the queue since it helped manage large crowds upon entry from a safety perspective.
Some fans like this system because it allows them to do some sightseeing in the city they are visiting or get additional rest during the day. For others, this was a despised system because it’s a self-appointed system by those who decide to start the queue themselves and tell others to follow their rules. These fans find this system abhorrent because line runners are incentivized to start the ‘line’ a lot earlier than necessary and get to benefit from a fairly slack system, as opposed to real camping. It also privileges’ those ‘in-the-know’. With that said, I can’t imagine 200 people all showing up at 8AM on-the-dot and expect a line to form nicely to get a venue wristband. I’ve seen U2 in Italy (2005) where there was no queue or numbering, and it was just a rush into the venue, and almost being pushed down the stairs at the San Siro to get to the pitch. I didn’t feel safe.
In any event, the venue ends up recognizing and respecting the GA line. I saw fans try to cut this queue, only for Sphere security to weed them out and put them at the back of the line.
4) Morning of the Queue
Q: What happens when we check-in at 6AM, morning of the show?
A: We queue up at 6AM and get in order. The line organizers will go down the queue, check numbers and see that you are there. If you’re not there, they cross your name off the list. By 7:30-7:45AM, venue security start to organize themselves. By 8AM, they let us enter through the initial gates and check our numbers to make sure we’re in order. Yes, that’s right, venue security respects the GA line and are grateful that it’s well organized and not chaos that they have to deal with.
We are then led to the ticket scanning system just inside the Sphere, where they scan us “in” to make sure we have legitimate GA tickets.
Next, we proceed to the official venue numbered wristband station, where venue staff place a wristband on us.
After, the venue scan us “out” so that we can use the ticket later tonight to get back “in” at concert time. A
5) Back-to-back shows and the GA
Q: What do I do if I am attending back-to-back GAs?
A: If you are up for a marathon of GAs and have the stamina, I would recommend after the first show, immediately go back to where the queue was being organized the day before. The ‘GA Crazies’ will leave after the last encore of the first show in order to get a good number for night two (don’t ask me why they do that, kinda perplexes me, to be honest).
It is possible that find queue organizers there giving out numbers for the following night. Conversations of who will start organizing the next night usually takes place on the day of the first show. In Vancouver 2017, it was agreed upon that the organizers for night 2 would be those who had seats or didn’t have tickets for night 1. Once the GA line for night 1 entered the venue, the organizers for night 2 would then start taking names and giving numbers for night 2. I’ve heard of some bad stories of the queue being organized by GAers while they were in the GA of night 1. This was completely unfair because it advantaged those already at the front of the GA for night 1 – so a decision was made in some cities so that those who weren’t in the GA for night 1 would be the organizers for night 2.
When I attended the Mexico City shows during the 360 Tour, it was back-to-back-to-back GAs. It was awfully tough on the body, but a great chance to get to know the fans from Mexico. I now look back at those times with a lot of pride because of the endurance and the fun I had with the people I camped out with.
Of course, you do not need to get another number if you don’t want to be near the front. Because the Sphere is an amazing venue – visually and acoustically – I’ve have friends who chose to not get numbers the next night and enter the GA closer to show time, and enjoy the show at the rear of the GA.
6) Saving Spots in the Queue
Q: Can I get the queue early and save spots for my friends who will arrive later?
A: No…. well kinda. Even if you bought a pair, three, or four GA tickets together (but not everyone is there yet), line organizers will insist the whole group is together to get on the list. This is largely because when it’s time for entry, the venue needs to scan everyone together.
This isn’t a hard rule, however. I have seen and heard workarounds.
One instance, I saw the U2Valencia group of friends enter separately, despite having all the tickets on one phone. The person nearer to the front scanned in, passed his phone to one of the security guards (see video of him below) (who they must have befriended earlier, likely spoke Spanish, and asked for a favour), and then that security guard ran back and passed the phone to the rest of the U2Valencia group to scan in later.
I’ve heard that a person got in with the Ticket that was on their Google or Apple Wallet ticket; and then a friend or group of friends logged into that person’s Ticketmaster account on their phone, bring up the tickets on the Ticketmaster App (which uses a scan, not NFC reader like the Google or Apple wallet ticket), and got in separately. I can’t verify this, but if someone was successful, let me know.
7) Fanclub Membership Line
Q: Will there be special access for U2.com members?
A: No. There is no special line for U2.com members. The last time this happened was 2005!
8) Security Checks
Q: What is security check like? What is allowed and not allowed?
A: At the Sphere, security check is pretty simple. You first have your phone scanned for the ticket. You then proceed through body scanners that seek metal objects. If you have a bag, it can’t be larger than 6″x6″x2″. If you have a bag, they will look through it. If it’s larger than the stated size, I’ve heard them throw out the bag! Yet at the same time, I’ve heard slightly larger bags get through. I didn’t risk it, and went in bag free, with just my phone and camera in hand.
This is taken from the Sphere Website:
Sphere is a “no bag” facility, meaning that large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside the venue. Sphere does not provide an area to check bags, coats or any other personal belongings.
Exceptions to this policy include small clutches, purses, and fanny packs that are no larger than approximately 6 in. x 6 in. x 2 in., as well as diaper bags and bags required for medical items.
Please note that all bags are subject to additional screening and inspection, either by visual or x-ray technology. If you or someone in your party has additional needs, please contact Guest Relations at guestrelations@sphereentertainmentco.com or 725-258-6724, Monday through Friday between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm PT, and Saturday and Sunday between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm PT.
Generally speaking, point-and-shoot cameras are alright. Seems to be more trickier to get cameras with detachable lenses in. I haven’t seen any issue so far with people bringing in small signs to wave to U2. What are very unlikely to bring in are large dSLR cameras.
For any items you are uncertain if these can be allowed inside, I highly recommend approaching security in the morning of what is allowed and not allowed. It helps to look for the head of security because they have better knowledge of venue policy. Remember, if you want to get through security check quickly, carry all that you can’t leave behind!
9) What happens when doors open at 6PM?
Q: What happens just prior to doors opening?
A: At the time when wristbands are issued, venue staff tell you to return to the venue by 5PM to start re-lining up. Before gaining entry to line up at the East VIP Gate, security will check the number of your wristband 10 people at a time, and make sure you are entering by numbered order. No wristband no entry. VIP GA ticket holders enter through the West VIP Gate.
Q: Do you run or walk once the doors are open?
A: Security will strongly insist you walk, but in most cases fans ‘fast-walked’. It will be well worth it to practice your speed-walking skills. Security threatens to send people back if they find you running. As you can see from the video below, the floor is very narrow, yet quite wide.
Q: Can I bring signs or flags into the show?
A: Likely. I have friends who have brought in blank sheets of paper, light pieces of cardboard, and markers. Once they got to the floor, they would write their messages and hope to show Bono during the concert. Sometimes the band acknowledges them, and sometimes not. I think it’s all for fun, so long as it doesn’t block the view of those behind you. When we were at the Vegas show, we made a sign for Fergie (of the Black Eyed Peas) who were the opening act. Fergie saw the sign, and sang to us for a bit. That was a lot of fun. Other times, people would write messages for U2, and Bono would incorporate at it into their songs or speeches. This doesn’t always happen, but can be special if it does during the concert.
With respect to flags, some venue security are more picky. At the Vancouver and New York shows during the iNNOCENCE+eXPERIENCE tour, venue security refused the entry of banners and flags. At Madison Square Garden (awful security), one fan was upset because her national flag was banned entry, with the security guard saying that, “Bono said he didn’t want flags at the show.” Laughable and dishonest, but we are at the mercy of security. Best to ask them well ahead of time to avoid this confrontation. Always check the venue website or call them two weeks ahead of time to ask about what is permitted and what isn’t allowed.
10) What is it like on the Floor?
Q: What if I need to leave to go to the washroom or buy food? Will I lose my spot?
A: If you need to leave to use the washroom or buys something, wait about 10 minutes after you get into the GA, before it gets too full. Make sure your friend(s) holds your spot, and choose a path out of your spot from which you can follow back in. If you have no friends with you, introduce yourself to others near you, and make buddies with them. You want people to remember you on your way out, so when you come back, they won’t think you’re cutting them. I’ve had no problems leaving my spot and come back, because I needed to use the washroom or get water at the Sphere. My friends and fellow U2 fans held my spot, and I did the same for them.
Q: What is it like at the front? Is it rough?
A: Unlike concert festivals which are the only comparisons I can draw from, U2 crowds are generally easy going and respectful. I’ve been able to enjoy the front with relative ease. The only times I found it tough in 2005 were in NY, Dublin I, and Honolulu, where ‘important’ people pushed their way to the front. Even for U2 360°the crowds in Poland and Croatia were not pushy. All other times, I thought there was general respect and a sense of harmony amongst us, and I look forward to sharing a ‘magnificent’ time with fellow U2 fans.
At the Sphere, credit to the Venue Security for kicking out drunk and obnoxious fans who were bothering fans at the front. Do not hesitate to call for help from Security, if you find yourself being pushed around by others who had a few too many (expensive) drinks.
Q: When you are along the rails, is the stage too high?
A: The stage is quite low, but the band further away since they tend to be on the “record” part of the “turntable” stage.
11) Where is the best spot to see U2 on the floor?
Q: Where is the best spot to see U2 on the floor?
A: Anywhere in the Sphere.
12) What if I arrive in the GA much later? I don’t really want to line up all day, but still enjoy the show!
Answering this question primarily comes down to expectations. Whether you choose to line up or not, one is not better than the other, but rather indicative of what people choose to do and expect to get in return.
The Sphere is a concert venue like no other. I do believe no matter where you are on the floor or in the seats, your mind will be blown away by the production and the music. You will have a great time – just need to calibrate your expectations.
When people queue up early, they have an expectation to be up close to the band, have a rail to lean on, and enjoy the music. They accept that there will be exhaustion, dehydration, and some frustration as part of this process, but believe that these sacrifices will trade-off with some benefits.
For those who come later or an hour or so before the show, they expect to be well rested and understand that they will be further back on the field. On the 360° Tour, I had friends arrive late afternoon to the queue and ended up two or three rows behind the outer circle b-stage. Having been through the pains of lining up at a previous U2 concert, this time around, they preferred to come late, feel refreshed, and accepted that they were going to be further back. They ended up being amazed because they ended up not that far back, which exceeded their expectations.
I’ve been at the back of a stadium GA before and didn’t mind it because my expectations were tempered. For the 1st show in São Paulo, Brazil for the 360° Tour, I arrived the morning of the concert. My friends and I met up and came to the Estadio Morumbi at 9am and there were already about 10,000 people in line ahead of us. We resigned ourselves to the inevitability that we’d be at the back of the GA, but we were okay with that. In the end, the fact that Zooropa first appeared on the tour in Brazil thrilled us. That alone made the concert special and not because of where we were relative to the stage.
Being at the back of the GA also has its advantages:
- It’s not as crowded
- The sound is at its best at the soundboard
- You can easily access the beer garden, souvenir stand, and washrooms easily
- You’ll get to see U2’s sound guru – Joe O’Herlihy – who has been with U2 since the start. He’s very approachable!
With all this said, I still like lining up early, because it gives me a chance to connect with long-distant U2 friends who travel and see the band like I do. I also like being near the front because I enjoy concert photography. But that’s my expectation and desire. Others who prefer to come later will hear the same amazing music and equally enjoy the company of friends as much as I do.
13) Pitfalls of the GA
Q: GA sounds too good to be true, it can’t be all fun and games?!
A: You’re right; it isn’t always the greatest of experiences in the GA. Exhaustion can sink in after multiple GAs, or you may run into U2 fans who are rude or have a degree of self-entitlement in being at the front .
I’ve also had to deal with really hot days, where there was no shade (i.e. June 30, 2009 Camp Nou – Barcelona). There would be days where it would rain nonstop (i.e. June 24, 2005 Croke Park – Dublin). There are ways to prepare for such climates, but your patience can wear thin quickly. I also found myself frustrated by people cutting the line, despite the fact that I spent the whole day there. In spite of my protestations, there was nothing I could do. Fairness, it seemed, was not universal. Other fans had described to me of a not-so-pleasant camping out experience at the Chorzow, Poland queue, where there were really drunk fans being loud and obnoxious at night, which made it a sleepless queuing experience.
This is unsurprising, but I’ve noticed that there is a direct correlation between the state of weather and the mood of the crowd. For example, we experienced heavy downpour the morning of The Joshua Tree Tour opener in Vancouver (which we knew was coming because the forecasts were pretty consistent leading up to that day), and I encountered a few irate and annoyed fans in the queue. Once the rain let up, skies opened, and sun rays beaming down on us by lunch time, I saw a lot more happier people in the line. All I can say is be prepared for the weather conditions, don’t be surprised, and feel free to temporary leave the queue if needed.
Another phenomenon I encountered during past tours was that being at the front of a queue does not necessarily guarantee a good spot on the floor because of mechanical or human errors. For example, the tickets wouldn’t scan properly at Dublin 3 or at Chorzow (360° Tour), which would result in gates locking up and disallowing you to pass. I know for some female fans, particularly at Wembley Stadium, there was a shortage of female security guards to search female fans, so they were held up. Some venues will have multiple entry points, which increases anxiety and uncertainty of where you will end up on the floor. Many fans had described to me of the Paris shows, where some gates opened up early than others. This resulted in frustrating some fans that felt this to be unfair and arbitrary. Having been through this myself, one can easily feel irritated and upset. At the Sphere, the GA is very narrow, yet wide. It’s not full for the entire show. So you can find lots of space at the back or sides, and still be in total amazement of the visuals, music, and show. I just think there’s a different vibe on the floor compared to being in seats. I love being around fans who stand, sing their hearts out, and let out their full emotions. Maybe it’s because we see the band so close, or are self-selected because the GA invites a certain type of fan?
14) Conclusion: GA Adds to the U2 Concert Experience
Well, I hope you found this post informative, if not entertaining. Despite these negatives, I still maintain the GA queue to be a beneficial and fun experience. A valuable lesson I learned was that ‘anything can happen’ in the GA experience and that we should not raise our expectations of always getting the spot we imagine ourselves having. Because we get to the queue early enough, we will all get onto the floor, and have a great spot where ever we may end up. Most U2 fans would love to see the shows we see, let alone the close proximity we have to the band. Most of us who have had the privilege to be in the pit will agree that the atmosphere is electric and any bad experiences from earlier in the day are washed away by the torrential music of U2.
While the U2 queue can be tiring and at times trying (i.e. North end Dublin kids making fun of U2 and throwing fruit and eggs at us outside of Croke Park), I think we can look back and remember all the great times. I can earnestly look back at all my experiences in the queue – good and bad – and remember how much fun it was to meet everyone, listen in on the sound checks, feel the rush of getting into the venue early, enjoying the concert with the same fans I shared the queue with during the entire day, and getting various setlists at the end of the night. I vividly recall meeting new friends, sharing our love for U2’s music, talking about our backgrounds, and explaining where our travels have taken us. In the end, the U2 queue is more than trying to make it to the front; it really is a place where different people of varying backgrounds can find a common ground, with the hope of having long lasting memories.
The GA in Vancouver during the iNNOCENCE+eXPERIENCE tour was memorable for me, as it was two days before my wedding (the next day, I skipped the second Vancouver show to make it for my wedding rehearsal). Fans in the queue were incredibly kind to sign a banner with messages of support and well-wishes for our marriage. It was the kindest act I’ve ever experienced in the queue. I admittedly teared up – physically and emotionally exhausted – but humbled at the thought and consideration of everyone. This alone made the GA worthwhile (thanks to Jonathan for filming this).
If you have any other tips or experience worth mentioning, or questions that need addressing, feel free to leave a message in comments below. I’ll try to promptly respond to your questions. We’re all here to help each other. I look forward to seeing you all in the queue. For me, there’s no other way but GA!
Comments (475)
Hi Joe, THANK YOU for all of your helpful info! 🙂 I have seats for Vancouver and GA for Seattle. The first time I saw U2 was on the floor near the stage for the Joshua Tree tour ’87 at BC Place. How I wound up close to the stage is an unforgettable memory along with the concert experience itself. I have seen U2 10 times since, always in seats (but def. not sitting!!) -with the exception of a video shoot, which was on the floor and seated.
Now nearly 30 years later and older, your tips will help me prepare for another unforgettable GA experience! I am super excited, and glad my Joshua Tree tour shirt is still in tact. I know what I am wearing on May 12th and14th! 😉
Thanks again, enjoy the tour!
Thank you so much for this info! I’ve been to many U2 shows but the last time I did GA was at this Joshua Tree tour show in Rotterdam 30 years ago (https://youtu.be/Gwjivv6XZ9c?list=RDGwjivv6XZ9c). Me and my two friends were right up front. Now three decades later we’re going to the Joshua Tree show in Vancouver and have GA tickets. Of course, we’re not 18 anymore and had a lot of “old guy” questions and concerns, which you have answered aptly. Thanks again.
I have 2 sons in wheelchairs. Will GA Standing Room Only tickets work for them. Or are they REQUIRED to sit in Handicapped areas??
Hi Mon,
I’m so glad that guide helped out and that you and your friends had a great time at the Pittsburgh show. See you next tour!
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Hi Irving,
Yah, the 385 pounds for the Uber Deluxe version seems absurd! Only a few will be able to afford that, which is a shame. The mark-up is astronomical!
Joe
Hey Joe!
Any comment on the Achtung Baby 20th anniversary release which they’ve just announced? IMHO, it looks spectacular, but approx. £385 for the Uber Deluxe Box set seems rather outrageous.
– Irving.
Hi Joe,
I had the time of my life in Pittsburgh last tuesday thanks to your blog. I went with a group of 3 friends and they could not leave work until 4:30pm…. we got to the stadium at around 6:00pm and I thought we had no chance to get to the pit! Well thanks to your blog I knew exactly where to go and we were probably one of the few last hundred to be let in the pit… We were by Adam’s side in the middle and it was perfect… the moving bridge kept stopping by us so we got to see all the band members….Interesting thing, unlike most of the concerts I guess in Pittsburgh there was only one entrance to the Pit so it was impossible to try to make it to the Edge’s side! Towards the end of the concert, some people starting walking out and I made it to the front of the rail… I saw Adam perfectly but Bono and Edge were a bit to far out to see so in perspective to be in the middle of the pit might be better unless you ar in the front…… Again, thank you so much, this was my first GA experience! Have a wonderful time in Canada!
Mon from Pittsburgh
Hi Rowland,
Point and shoot cameras are fine to bring in. That’s never an issue. I think recording devices and video cameras are difficult to bring in. Have a great time at the show!
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Thanks Geoff for the tips! Hope to see you there.
Joe
Joe
For those attending the Moncton concert, this site is worth a visit: http://magnetichillmusicfestival.ca/Event_Info/Rules.htm
In my experience at this venue, there is one line up for multiple gates (which are all together) and if you’re in a hurry avoid going to a gate where bags are being searched.
There’s a large campground across from the venue, and there’s nothing to do on the day of the concert except line-up, so expect to see the queue begin early. (My wife & I will be at the campground.) However, it’s usually quite a hike from the gates to the stage, so pace yourself when you get into the venue.
Thanks for your tips about the stage setup. It’s invaluable! I hope that your Maritime Canada experience will be as enjoyable as all of the other concerts. You’ve had quite the ride throughout this tour!
My preganant wife is hoping that the weather forecast brightens up, since 5 mm of rain and 22 degree celcius temperatures (to feel like 29 with humidity) is a bit daunting, but one of my best concert experiences was in the rain in similar weather many years ago in Parlee Beach, New Brunswick. The rain cannot dampen my spirits!
See you in line!
Geoff from Nova Scotia
Hi Joe, thanks for all you do for the GAers. Moncton will be my first GA experience, and I’ve read your guide. I know it will be a great help! If I see you in the line, I’ll stop by and say “hi”.
I have question for you: Do you think there’s any point in trying to bring a camera? I’ve heard conflicting reports about the rules regarding them at Moncton. On the event website, it says no camera of any kind is permitted, however one of the organizer’s was quoted in a local newspaper recently as saying point and shoot cameras were okay.
I went to the Edmonton show, and had no problem bringing my point and shoot. Security didn’t even search me! Could have brought whatever I wanted in!
Thanks, and have a great time this weekend!
Rowland from Newfoundland
Hi Irvingtan,
Thanks for the kind note! Hope to see you at a future show!
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Hi Anonymous,
Gigs for 33 years – that’s a lot of concerts! Well I guess you’re a little more clever than the rest of the people who visit my site. In their defense, others may not have the luxury or privilege of going to lots of U2 shows or other gigs for that matter like us two. But they just want some assurance of what to expect. That’s part of the reason I wrote this blog, to help them out. I’ve traveled the world on my own, and gone to concerts by myself, and wanted to share those experiences with others. No harm, no foul as far as I’m concerned.
As you mentioned, the GA is not just about getting to the front. It also about meeting new friends and making new connections along the way. That to me is far more valuable and meaningful. For example, the friends I made at the Sao Paulo gig — I have an open invitation to stay with them at the next World Cup. That opportunity has happened as a result of the GA and the nice people I met in Brazil.
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Hi Tim,
You must be in the Pittsburgh queue now – have a blast!
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Hi rat_1_ca,
At all the venues I’ve been to, and safely assuming Moncton will be the same, getting to the line in the morning of the show will most likely get you and your son into the pit. The setup looks very familiar to Montreal (with built seating and open field), so I have somewhat of an idea of what to expect. Hope to see you there and please say hi!
Cheers,
Joe
Hi Joe, my son and I are going to the show in Moncton. What is your feeling about the GA lineups there, because it is the first time for the band in Atlantic Canada and the last show of the tour and also more of a festival setup, do you have any thoughts on how early one should arrive do have a chance for the pit. Thanks.
Joe….thanks for this service. Going to Pittsburgh tomorrow night. This is really helpful. Recently, I’ve done the “day of show” VIP seats that always get released….first shot into the GA, which I look forward to. Your info has been very valuable. Hopefully Pittsburgh will be a good experience.
I’m delighted that you have made many friends whilst in the queue but I still don’t understand why folks need so much info?When I started going to gigs 33 years ago I just went and enjoyed the experience.I also learned each time I went what to expect.Also,with regard to ‘GA’ or ‘standing’ as we call it this side of the pond,I was at the U2 gig in Tampa,December 1987.There was ‘GA’ on the pitch.I ended up 3 feet from the stage(Edges side for the anoraks)and I didn’t even have a pitch (GA) ticket!Now,how did I manage that without first asking endless questions before I even went to the gig?
This is a fantastic site Joe. I saw an article on you in a Winnipeg daily while I was there to catch the U2 show (29th May 2011) and made a mental note to look you up online when I got back. I remember checking our your site after the show and thinking “Damn, why didn’t I find out about this place sooner?!”. My girlfriend and I did okay for ourselves though (third row from the railing, inner circle, between Bono and Adam). It was good times.
In any case, just stopping by to say hi. Keep up the good work brother! Keep spreading the love and wonderful goodwill which is so evident in your writing style! I am sure Bono himself would be proud 🙂
Hi Kristen,
As mentioned, these are fan-run self-regulated queues, which would not be stated by the venue. Some venues later recognize the list, while some don’t.
If I were you, get to the stadium the morning or afternoon before the show to see where the fans with GA are converging. These will be these will be the veteran/regular GAers who are used to organizing the U2 queues and will have probably spoken to security already.
Even if the venue says that people aren’t allowed to line up until the morning of the show, some fans will still organize the line just off the stadium grounds. I think this is helpful. Without it, there would a lot of chaos the morning of the show with hundreds of people showing up with no order whatsoever.
Email me if you have any more questions.
Cheers,
Joe
Hi Joe!
I’m going to the Mpls. show on Saturday and I keep reading more and more about these “fan-created GA lists” — in some cases, it sounds like they aren’t even stated at the venue itself — is that true? How do you find out where the list is?
TCF Stadium has said that it will not honor these lists and you can’t line up until 6 a.m. Do you have any suggestions? (I had to sell my ticket to the ’05 show because of work and hurricane Katrina and I just want this show to be extra special!!) :o)
Thanks!
-Kristen
Hi Anonymous,
General admission in North America is relatively new. Laws had prevented general admission for the longest time, but 10 years ago it was allowed for arenas, and it was new for stadiums this tour. People had legitimate questions about the GA, particularly about bringing children into the pit.
But as my Guide concluded, the GA is more than just getting into the pit or finding a good spot, but also about making new friends and developing a sense of community with other U2 fans. Sounds corny, I know, but I swear by it! I love all the friends I’ve made in the queue and it’s the occasion of a U2 concert that made that possible. That is the value of the GA 🙂
Joe
Having followed U2 for 31 years and counting(last gig was Glastonbury)I am wondering how I managed 86 gigs without asking anyone for advice about how to queue up.Is this an American thing cos here in Ireland we just turn up and enjoy ourselves!
Hi Alys,
My apologies for the delay in posting a response. I’m not familiar with the gate situation at the New Meadowlands. There will always be a queue somewhere, so I suggest walking around the stadium to see where everyone is.
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Hi Miriam,
U2 will usually come on between 9 to 9:15PM.
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Hi Sean,
Enjoy the show! Say hi to everyone at the beginning of the queue for me!
Cheers,
Joe
Thanks Joe for your help and pointers. I will look for your friends and say hello!
best regards
sean
Thank you so much for this site!! This is so helpful, we are so grateful.
If the opening act is scheduled to play at 7pm, what time will U2 get on stage?
~Miriam
Hey Joe,
Do you have any info about the July 20th concert at the Meadowlands?
I am curious because there were certain rules for the 2009 concert at the old stadium and I was wondering which gate to go to, what time you’re actually allowed to line up if you are G.A. and such.
In 2009 , no one was allowed at the stadium until the early morning of the concert. I read above that people are going there the morning before?
Thanks-
Alys
Hi Ken and Michelle,
It has been great to meet the two of you. Once you GA, it’s hard not to do it any other way! I’m glad you’ve been able to see that the GA is more than getting into the pit, that it’s about the larger community experience! Enjoy the Minneapolis show! See you in the future!
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Hi Sean,
The front rail is ideal, but would require getting into the queue the morning before. It’s a lot easier to make to the outer rail. You can see the entire production and stage, the catwalk is a lot lower than the front, and the band does walk around there frequently. I recommend going to Giants Stadium the morning before to see what the queue looks like, and what kind of rules the queue managers plan to implement there. You may see my friends Colleen (from Vermont) and Pat (Arkansas) who may be helping running the line. Say hi to them for me!
Joe
Hey Joe
Awesome awesome site. Many thanks for such an AMAZING effort. I’ve been a u2 nut since the War Tour but haven’t been on the floor in over a decade.
Quick question- I have GA tix for NJ on 7/20 my girlfriend’s FIRST show. I want the experience to be amazing for her (for me I dont care where I am). I worry about one thing- She is 5 feet 0. Is she going to be too small to enjoy herself if we are in the pit?
Any specific spots you (or anyone else) can think to position ourselves for my tiny first timer to have a blast?
Stupid question?
Thanks
Sean Quinn
Hey Joe, thank you so much for your information and help/advice. My wife Michelle was behind you in the seattle show and since then she has become a GA junkie (Anaheim, Montreal). While we have always loved U2, it has trancended to an experience. I braved the GA line in Montreal and now she has convinced me to do it in Minnesota. What I have witnessed in the GA line and what Michelle has added with her experiences, it seems like one big happy family and I only wish I had discovered it sooner. Again thank you for Blog and advice. Hope to see you and Jorge in Minnesota.
Ken
Hi BonnyVox,
Thanks for the note. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to make it to the Philly show. You’ll probably see my friends Amp (wears a red turban) and Drew (usually wears a Philly jacket) near the front of the queue. Say hi to them for me!
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Hey Dan,
It was great to meet you at the Montreal show – I’m glad you had a good time. Nice to meet you!
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Hi Christine,
I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the show!
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Hi Peggy,
Yes I did find the security to be very draconian when it came to water and food. $5.00 for a bottle of water?! Robbery I tell you! I try to sneak some snacks in, knowing most venues disallow food in (which is unfortunate). Still, I found the food and drink costs at the Hippodrome to be outrageous.
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Hi Julie,
Unfortunately, I won’t be at the Jersey show either 🙁 I’ll ask around to see who needs a spare GA ticket and will email you. Thanks!
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Hi Dan,
Great video, great memories!
Joe
here a video that i recorded, full hd from front row, dont miss the ending when the band says goodbye
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Rla4Vtr8eo
Dan
Hi Joe,
I would like to thank you for your guidance in whole GA experience. I will be going to the concert in NJ on July 20th and was wondering if I could join your company since I’ll be going alone. Also, I have an extra ticket GA that I’d like to sell.
luckykitten75@yahoo.com. Julie
Hi Joe, great feedback. I just saw the 360 show in Montreal on July 8th. I was there at 4:15 and got a good spot in the middle of the outercircle just outside of the pit. (I also got to keep my chair with me the entire time…my friend had hers taken away when she arrived at 6pm). Our friends found us even though theya arrived at 6:30 and noone complained. Some people did push themselves to the front at the last minute but we did not complain about it. The one big negative was that I had packed a big lunch & snacks which security rudely threw out without asking me, claiming no food was allowed because we needed to buy food inside. We ended up spending over $20.00 to eat a crappy sandwich and chips. I was extremely dissapointed in this and feel that U2 should not allow such things to happen. Other than that it was a great experience. Peggy X
Ho Joe,
just a quick note to say thank you for your guide- I came upon it browsing for info about the Montreal show and your tips helped us get into the inner circle with only 7 spots left yesterday when we came in around 5pm- we took a chance and went straight to the front and were some of the last to get in. Watching the show from that privileged vantage point last night was beyond amazing. Thanks for helping it happen!
Cheers,
Christine
Hello Joe,
Thanks again for everything, your guide was excellent, I was behind you in the second show in Montreal, the 13 hours on the queue where nothing thanks to you and I had a lot of energy for the show, water and granola bars! haha I had some very nice pictures of the show and us in the pit that I want to send you, send me an email to escribepues@gmail.com
Hope to see you again for another show!
Dan
Joe, thank you so much for this guide – it’s amazingly chock full of useful information!!! Will you be attending the Philly 360 show on 7/14/11?? If you haven’t got a ticket, I might have an extra GA!! (It doesn’t look like my son can get off from work). Email me at bonnyvox@popstar.com. Thanks again for the guide IT TOTALLY FREAKIN ROCKS!!!!!!!!
Hi Jamie,
I’m so glad everything worked out for you and Rachel! I saw the set list for Chicago – wow! One Tree Hill!
Take care,
Joe
Joe,
Your guide helped my friend Rachel and I have an amazing time in Chicago yesterday! It was her first U2 show ever, my second (first time in GA) and without you, we would have been lost. Instead, we knew what to expect in the line and had an amazing time in the pit! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Jamie
Hi Michael,
The general admission queue can be a lot of fun – a chance to make friends and develop community. Luckily, Montreal in July will be really warm!
Some venues let RZ into the pit, and others don’t. Personally, I’m not a fan of that – perhaps read my Anaheim 1 review.
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Hi Joceline, Dave, Paul, Simon, and Louis,
Wow, I’m glad the guide was fun enough to read to inspire you to go to the Montreal show! You’ll probably find me near the front of the queue. Please say hi!
Joe
Hi Joe,
Thanks so much for your amazing blog. I hadn’t really thought much about going to see U2 until I read your guide to GA. Your detailed description of the inner circle made the whole crazy concept of spending a day in line seem worth it and as such got me longing for such an experience. So I called up my old college buddys that saw U2 with me at the Big O in 1987 and we are going to be at Friday’s show in Montreal.
See you in the queue and thanks again.
5 Gen-X dudes (Jocelin, Dave, Paul, Simon and Louis).
Hi Joe,
Your writing brings back great memories of queuing in GA lines during the last few tours. The one that stands out for me was waiting outside all day in Montreal in November 2005. It must have been -20C. But people had guitars and we sang U2 songs. It’s great when you’re not the only one who knows all the words. For the Montreal 360 show I decided to get Red Zone tickets. Can you tell me if holding a Red Zone ticket will only get you into the Red Zone, or if you can also access the inner circle?
Thanks,
Michael
Hi Nate,
Glad to hear you got an amazing spot for your show!
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Hi Carola,
If you are coming an hour before the show, perhaps at the back would be good. You could also try going to the side behind the Red Zone if there is any open spots to move around.
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Hi Barks,
Toronto advice? You tell me! I was there for Vertigo, but not for 360. Not sure what to expect in the queue there. I imagine there will be a big caravan of fans coming in from the Montreal shows. I’ll get there sometime the day before the show. Hope to see you in line!
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Hi Patricia,
Are you only attending one Montreal show? You should see both! If you get to Montreal the night before, head to the stadium and see if you can get a ticket to see the Friday show. Then head back to the queue to see the next show.
I don’t think there is much to be nervous of. I’ve gone by myself on this tour to Europe and Australia and never found it difficult to make new friends – that’s part of the exciting nature of a U2 concert. You will find that making new friends in the U2 line is easy and fun!
I’ll be going back to the queue after the Friday show (around 11:30PM), so that’s where I’ll be with all my friends. Come by and say hi!
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Hi Scott,
I think Nashville won’t have as long of a line as say Los Angeles which has a dense population. I reckon by the morning of the show (6AM) in Nashville, there will be no more than 200 people in line. If I were you, get to the line to get a number the day before the show.
Joe
Hey Joe,
I’m about to attend my first U2 show ever. Gonna see them in Nashville, and I’m very excited. I want to get either in the inner pit or right along the wall of the outer pit. What time do you think would be best to get there? I didn’t know if Nashville would be different than the rest since they haven’t played there in over 25 years.
Thanks so much.
Scott
Hi Joe, I absolutely loved your blog! Very usefull.
I am attending the Saturday July 9 concert in Montreal. I am very nervous b/c of many factors:(i) first time in a U2 concert, (ii) first time in Montreal, (iii) I am traveling from South America so I would have only a few hours in the city -as I arrive the night before, and (iv) I am attending the concert by myself.
Are you attending this concert? If so, is there any chance we can meet up? What time are you planning to get to the queue?
I look forward to hearing from you,
Patricia
Hey Joe
Thanks for all the info and suggestions. Taking my three sons with my wife to the July 11th Toronto Show. It will be their first concert, I thought it should be with the right band. Any advice for Toronto? My wife and I went to the Sept 16th 2009 Show in Toronto and got into the que at 3pm, and made it into the pit, back rail by outer stage on Edge’s side. It was a great night. Will you be at Toronto? That is so amazing that you have been able to go to so many shows. very lucky man.
Hi Joe,
We’re going to the show in Montreal on July 8 with our two kids, aged 8 and 13. What would be your advice as to the safest place to go with them? At the very back, arriving just an hour before the show? Thnks!
As a person who memorized this guide before my first U2 show; I’m 16 and wish I could’ve seen them on earlier tours, its nice to see I’m one of the pictures from the Seattle show, awesome! Anyways, thanks for the help Joe, my friend and I ended up with great spots second row on the outer rail, dead center, and we had a nice comfortable day in the queue! Thanks!
“Amigo Joe”…looking forward to read your reviews for Anaheim, glad you made it back home safe and sound…Jorge (San Fran)
Sorry to respond late to the questions, I just got back from Anaheim for the U2 shows there.
Hi Anonymous,
Yes, wearing something bright can be a clever way to be remembered when you walk back into the pit after an early washroom or water run. Great idea!
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Hi Anonymous,
Parking in Baltimore… I am not sure how early lots open in general to be honest. I reckon they differ according to each venue.
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HI Christine,
I hope you enjoyed Anaheim!
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Hi Kevin,
These days, the people starting the GA list can start as early as 8AM the day before the show, or sometimes two days before (depending on the size of the market (i.e. Los Angeles or NY). Just look around the stadium venue to see where there is a group of people and some lawn chairs stationed to assign people numbers.
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Hi Michael,
I’m glad the guide helped. Anaheim 2 was amazing!
Joe
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Joe Thank you so much for sharing this valuable information. Because of your diligent postings, we was able to have one of the most magical concert experiences at the 2nd Anaheim show. Thank you Thank you Thank you.
Hey Joe,
Amazing! That is the only word I could come up with when checking out your site/blog. Having been to 46 U2 shows myself, I could have used you about 25 years ago!!!
What time (day before the show) do they usually start making the list? Where can you find the person? I always end up guessing it and it is hit or miss. For example,,, the U2 show on 7/5? What time should I get there on 7/4? Help a brother out!
Kevin
theacrobatnation@sbcglobal.net
Thanks for your informative blog! Hope to see you in line tomorrow in Anaheim!
joe i plan on getting to the baltimore venue about 8 a.m. and parking in the stadium lot (i purchased a parking pass, because i understand parking nearby is limited) my question is how early do these lots normally open? i cant find any info on when i can enter the lot
Joe, excellent guide, thanks! And as someone who has done GA at several U2 shows over the past three tours, your advice is spot-on. Especially about “making friends” if you need to leave the inner circle. The later it gets, the more (understandably) protective people are of letting someone get past them, which can make getting back to your position quite difficult at times. I have also personally found that it helps to wear brightly colored or descriptive shirts, to make yourself more readily identifiable to people when you are trying to navigate back through, as well as make your friend(s) easier to spot in the crowd (if you do not have the fortune of having a spot right along the rail)
Queing up has usually been a smooth experience, with the exception of the Rose Bowl last year. That ended up being quite the mess, with many of us stuck for quite awhile in a crush of people. At the time, I dealt with it but now I am pregnant, which makes me much more nervous for anything like this happening at tomorrow night’s show in Anaheim… Still, hopeful that everything will go well and that it will be yet another amazing show!