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)
Joe,
I’ll be at the Pittsburgh show this Saturday. I’ve only done GA one other time, but I’ve spent years talking with fans on the procedure, so I think I generally have it down.
I do have a question though. For this show, I really want to try to meet the band when they enter the stadium. I know where they will be entering and have read some great tips on meeting the band the day of show (weather, friendliness, etc. all play a role, of course).
If I want to try and wait in order to meet the band, what should I do about the GA line? I want to get there day of show, but I’m not sure if I should claim my spot in line and then try to wait for the band or if I should just wait for the band and then claim my GA spot after. I don’t want to piss people off!
Thanks for all your help!
Hi Chris,
If you need to step away from the queue, just let a few people around you that you need to step away and will be back, but try not to be away from the line for too long. If you try to meet the band around 3, I think you should be back in the line by around 4:30, as doors open between 5 and 5:30.
Good luck!
Joe
Thanks Joe, Saturday’s show in Chicago was awesome! Security issued wrist band with a number. We got to the line at 715 AM day of show and were #384. We ended up on the right side of the tree 4 rows back from the rail (10 ft from stage). Great view of the band. Larry’s drum set is on that side. Bono stood mostly on the right side. The Edge was mostly left but he switched sides numerous times. The tree is definitely better than the main stage. Hope that helps some decisions out there.
Hi Sean,
This is really helpful! Thanks for sharing.
Joe
Joe,
Just wanted to say thanks, and to compliment what you’ve put together! My only U2 shows have been GA, and your experiences make me remember mine happily! I was curious about the tree stage for this one and your post answered my questions! We are headed to the Miami show around 6am on Sunday, hoping for a rail spot at the top of the tree. It’s my husband’s first U2 show and I know that no matter where we are, he’s in for a lifetime experience!
Jen
Hi Jen,
Thanks for the kind note! If you’re planning on going at 6am Sunday morning, which will likely be the check in time, I’d recommend going to the stadium the day before to get a number. I imagine the venue will not allow camping over night, so GAers who get a number the day before will be asked to return later that night for a roll-call, and come back the next early morning for final roll-call and to queue up. If you plan to get there early anyway, might as well get a number the day before. This should increase your chances to grab a coveted rail spot along the top of the tree!
Joe
What time does U2 start playing?
Hi Abe,
They usually start around 9:00pm.
Joe
Thanks so much for all the awesome information. Quick question, I’m going to the show on Wednesday night in Tampa next week with GA tickets. There’s no way I can get there until about an hour before the show and will be meeting up with friends doing the same. Will it be easy for us to find each other towards the middle or back of the crowd? Obviously we won’t get up front but I still think it will be fine.
Hi Chris,
I think it might be a challenge to meet your friends in the middle of the pitch. Maybe near the soundboard (where the sound is pristine), but having to sift through 1000s of people will be difficult!
Joe
Hi Joe,
Awesome blog and information, been following it since 2011!. I decided to splurge this year and get RED ZONE tickets for the Pittsburgh show on wednesday… do you have any recommendations for me? From your blog it seems the best spot is on the tree… I think the RED ZONE is a bit too much to the right to be in the center!
Thank you cannot wait!
Monica
Hi Monica,
Thanks for following along! I really appreciate it 🙂
If I were you, go to the stadium on Tuesday and ask around where the queue will be for Red Zone. You can also try calling the box office to see if they know. I know fans start lining up for Red Zone the early morning of the show.
Since U2 rarely (if ever) spend any time in front of the main stage, best to head along the rail along the tree, on the right side of the tree where the Red Zone borders the GA floor, for a good side view of the band. Alternatively, you can go to the spot where the cat walk intersects the tree, but you’ll be looking at the behind of U2 most of the time.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Joe- going to CHI Sunday night concert. I have GA tickets I bought from Vivid that came on a card. I will be arriving first and hoping to get in line early afternoon. He doesn’t fly in till later and won’t get there until after gates open probably. How can I handle getting him his ticket? Thanks!!!!!!
Joe- obviously I forgot to type that a friend is coming with me and arriving later. 🙂
Hi Jessica,
Thanks for the note. I have a hunch the line leaders will want all people on the credit card together at the time of sign in. When you arrive in the queue, ask the line leaders what the ‘policy’ is, but from my understanding of past queues this tour, they’ve insisted that everyone is together (which prevents people signing up loads of people who aren’t there yet). But I could be wrong.
In any event, have a great time and enjoy the show!
Joe
Hey Joe!
Thanks for the GA info…because of the weather tomorrow I have decided to buck up and make a day of it on Sunday! I loved U2 my whole life but thank you for the info to get me out of the seats and onto the floor where I belong. 🙂 I’m a little short so I hope I’ll be ok! Thanks again!! I can’t wait!!!
Nora
Hi Joe,
Thanks for all the information… my husband and I will be going to the show tomorrow night in Chicago! Our first ever GA experience!! We are so excited. I was wondering how we would find out what hotel they’ll be coming from or what entrance they’ll use… it would be a dream come true to get an autograph or a picture! Thanks again for the info!! -Ash
Hi Ash,
That’s exciting that this will be your first GA experience! I am not sure which hotel U2 stays in Chicago. I do know there is an entrance to Soldier Field to possibly meet U2 (I had done it in 2009) – best to walk around the stadium grounds around 2:00 to see where other fans are clustered. Edge usually enters first, followed by the others. Don’t expect Larry to say hi – he usually jets right in. Better chance that Adam or Bono says hi.
Good luck!
Joe
Hi Joe, thanks so much for sharing your vast knowledge of all things U2–specifically GA entry! My wife and another couple are going to the Saturday show in Chicago. We plan on arriving around 6 and aren’t concerned about getting up close. I believe the show starts at 7–safe to assume that is when the Lumineers will start playing? When have they typically been opening doors for those in the GA lines? Should we anticipate having to stand in line long if arriving at 6/6:30 pm. Thanks again for your time–
Matt
Hi Matt,
Glad you enjoyed the ‘Guide’! Doors typically open around 5:30 and the opening act comes on at 7:00 or 7:30. If you arrive at 6:00/6:30, I can’t anticipate a long line, if Soldier Field have a good process of entry (i.e. multiple gates and fast ticket scanners).
Have a great time at the show!
Joe
I was wondering if you happen to know about handicap space on the floor. I have a son who is in a wheel chair, and I am not sure of their policy for that. I have a group of 5 for the floor for the June 3, Chicago show. Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Cory
Hi Cory,
I know at other venues, fans with disabilities were able to take to venue security for early entry (getting in before everyone else in the GA). I think you need to provide a doctors note or some paper work, but it may be worth while to call Soldier Field first to find out, or get down there tomorrow and talk to security about what is needed.
Some venues have dedicated disabilities sections, but in Seattle, I saw a fan in a wheelchair at the front rail, main stage.
Give this a try!
Joe
For Chicago, I have 4 GA tickets, which I am planning on using for my family and I. I also have 2 tickets in Section 440, which I need to sell (face value). My credit card will be required for entry. Thus, my questions is this: For the people to whom I sell the tickets, can they stand in line with me in the GA line, and enter with me, even though they are sitting in Section 440? Thanks much!!
Doug
Hi Doug,
I think seat tickets can be transfered to another credit card via Ticketmaster, but you may need to call them to double check. Otherwise, I can’t see any other way for the people you sell the ticket to and enter, unless they are with you.
I really dislike credit card entry! Makes it really hard for fans to be flexible!
Joe
Joe, this was amazingly helpful. Been going to shows for 33 years, but only ever camped out in the 80s and that was at ticketron offices at the Sears for actual paper tickets! I am personally one of those people who is happy to stand back a bit and take it all in. But your advice will be helpful when I meet three sisters in Chicago for GA on Saturday night, then again in philly for red zone.
Best wishes to you at all these shows!
Claire
Hi Claire,
I love meeting fans like yourself who have been following fans for many years! Please say hi to the three sisters for me 🙂
Enjoy the shows too!
Joe
Joe- Great info! I have an issue. I purchased 4 GA tickets to the June 3 Chicago show and 2 of our group won’t get there until 7pm. Ticketmaster won’t let me transfer tickets to them so those of us who want to go much earlier than 7pm need a solution. Do you know of any options to split the 4 tickets?
Thank you,
Dave
Hi Dave,
Myself, and a lot of other fans, really dislike the credit card entry because it’s so limiting for entry of fans arriving at different times.
In Europe, some venues like the O2 in London, were able to print of the tickets from my credit card at the box office. I haven’t heard of North American venues being able to do that, yet. Might want to try to call the box office at Soldier Field to see if it’s possible to have the GAs printed, so that you can leave the pair for your friends arriving late. I really doubt Soldier Field or Ticketmaster will allow this, because they’re probably worried about scalpers taking advantage of this, but this hasn’t prevented scalpers from buying GAs. They just get gift credit cards, from places like Target or 7/11, purchase GAs using that card, and then sell the card to fans. If a venue asks for ID to go along with credit cards (only happened twice last tour), those fans who bought from scalpers got screwed over. *Sigh*.
Anyway, I hope this helps. Good luck!
Joe
I have recently had a hip/back injury and have GA seats for pittsburgh, toronto, and cleveland. Yes, I officially admit to my addiction.
Always been in GA for past shows and loved it but never considered if I wanted to sit down on the floor…is that permitted?? I may need to rest my back now and then.
Hi Amy,
I know of people sitting in the GA during the opening act and during the intermission (in between the opening act and before U2 get on stage). During the show, I can see it being more challenging to sit on the floor, unless you’re in the back or in an area less crowded. With that said, I see no reason why there would be a rule against sitting, so do what you need to do to be comfortable!
Joe
We are going to the Chicago show, June 4th and will use my credit card to enter. Is there more than one location at the stadium to do this? Or can we print tickets ahead of time to avoid dealing with the credit card? Thanks for all of the info! This is our first show!!!
Hi Rebekah,
There usually is just one entrance for the GA. Best to call the stadium venue (or you might get an event email notice) of where the entrance will be.
Enjoy the show!
Joe
Joe,
Thanks for the info. It should be quite helpful. Will you be at a show in Chicago? Hope to see you there.
Bri
Hey Bri,
Thanks for the note! Unfortunately, I won’t be at the Chicago show. Have a great time!
Joe
Hi Joe,
Have you been hearing what time the Lumineers have been beginning playing and what time U2 has been starting their show?
Hi Brian,
Opening acts come on either at 7:00 or 7:30pm. U2 are usually on at 9:00pm.
Joe
Hey Joe, love the site.
Going to see the Chicago show this Sat, June 3rd. Any advice when and where the queue will start? I don’t think they allow camping overnight. Not sure if I should get a hotel the night before or just hang out by the stadium or is that allowed?
Thanks man.
Sean Brennan
Hey Sean,
To get around the ‘no-camping over night’, the queue numbering system usually starts the morning before the show, and may require check-ins the day before, meaning you need to go to the queue in the morning and evening to check-in, and you can leave through the day. The morning of the show, you’ll probably be asked to arrive at 6am to check-in and stay in the queue for the day.
Enjoy the gig!
Joe
Hi,
My first shoe this tour will be Miami and I was wondering about time the queue begins at the morning of the show. Is it mostly 6am as I’ve seen that as the time the line began at some of the recent shows?
Thank you,
Ethan
Hey Ethan,
The queue numbering system usually starts the morning before the show, and may require check-ins the day before, meaning you need to go to the queue in the morning and evening to check-in, and you can leave through the day. The morning of the show, you’ll probably be asked to arrive at 6am to check-in and stay in the queue for the day.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Okay that’s great thank you!
Thanks
Hi Ho, let´s go Joe!
What a great info and an interesting read – loved the camping pics :D. I would like to ask what do you mean by awful security in MSG or what are some really good security experiences for you like the security sorting out the queue stuff. These times security at venues is very important (and have been doing some myself :)). Thank you if you have time to answer! Have a great JT tour!
Hi Jaana,
During the ieTour, some of the MSG security were clearly in league with scalpers. Each morning on show day, MSG would release a handful of tickets at the box office. U2 fans queued up and waited hours to get their hands on tickets to see the show that night. These security guards kept telling them to leave the premises, but allowed scalpers to hang around, and get first crack at the ticket offices. In the end, only a few U2 fans got tickets, and the scalpers got most of them. The incident was reported by @atU2 and by the media.
http://forum.atu2.com/index.php?topic=27906.15
Very regrettable experience.
Joe
Hey Joe, great site and tips… I’m from Costa Rica and planning to attend the Tampa event…I’m a little worried because I bougth the tickets through vivid seats and so I’m not sure that the seller representative arrives early…. And blows our chances of a good spot on the GA floor… Any advice?
The queue number system… Great idea.
And any chance of meeting you in the Tampa show?
Best of luck
Hi Hector,
Unfortunately, you would need to enter with the credit card purchaser. As an alternate plan, keep checking ticketmaster to see if any additional GA tickets are released, so you can buy one under your card.
Joe
Joe,
Great information. Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experiences. I will be attending show 2 in Chicago next week and your advice will certainly come in handy. Enjoy the tour!
Thanks, Steve! Have a great time in Chicago. U2 shows there tend to be amazing.
Thank you for this! I have had personal issues keep me from the GA line for the past 3 tours, but this time I’m doing it. Saturday in Chicago!
Have a great time in Chicago!
Joe,
Thanks for posting this… and great pics…. I stood behind you in Edmonton 360, and by looking at your pics in vegas I was right near you there as well.
I hope they come to YEG again….
Hi Joe,
I bought the General Admission tickets for my sister & I. It will be awesome as long as we can hear the music, but I’ll send a message after the concert! One thing I will say to alert other fans…. I bought tickets from Vivid Seats not realizing that we have to meet the original purchaser outside Soldier Field in Chicago so he can escort us in since they require that the person with the purchasing card be present at the time of entry. I am not at all happy with this & hoping for an uneventful experience getting into the concert. It’s my fault that I didn’t notice this was part of the deal with buying these tickets….but I wish the notice was in BOLD letters alerting purchasers to this important info….
I’m worried about not arriving to the concert without REAL tickets in our hands…..
Hi Joe,
In general, if you had to pick between the back of the GA area or a grandstand seat, which would you say is better? My sister & I have been huge fans since the beginning but are now Moms in our late 40s who can’t get to Soldier Field before 6 the night of the show. I’m thinking even being the last row in the GA area will be a great atmosphere but I’m not sure..
Anne
Chicago
Hi Anne,
I’ve always been more preferential GAs because the atmosphere is better there than seats, but granted, I’ve usually been at the front. The two times I’ve been further back at the soundboard was in Brazil, but the atmosphere down there is exceptional, and was electric all around the stadium.
I also like GAs because they are more affordable than good seats. I hear you about not having the same time as before to line up early. I guess if you have good seats near the stage, they will have a better view than at the back. I’m not sure what to advise… it’s your call!
Hey Joe,
First U2 concert, first GA experience, huge U2 fan just like you! Going to the Louisville show, I have contacted the stadium to find out what they will allow as in camping out, or times we can stand in line. Do you have any thoughts or pointers for this venue.
Thank you for your article, it has helped out so much!
Hi Erin,
I would suspect that the stadium in Louisville will not allow camping, like most other stadiums around North America. If I were you, go to the stadium the early morning before the show, see if a line has started or not. Then during the day, see if you can speak to security, specifically head of security to see if camping is allowed and how the GA entry process will work (i.e. where the line can enter).
Joe
Hi Joe, this is Alejandro from Argentina. Your blog is incredibly helpful! Lots of useful tips which will make hundreds of peoples life easier when preparing for the concert. I really appreciate what you have done.
Joe you rock!!! My husband & I read over all of your suggestions. We were GA & attended the performance last night in Houston. We arrived at 10am pretty late in line we were #208 & #209, but since we knew where to go for best view, we were right beside #35 & #36 on the rail top right of the tree, Best. View. Ever. We took a million great pictures. Thanks for all you do to help create the best fan experience.
Hi Yvette,
That makes me really happy that you and your husband got a great spot on the floor along the rail!!! Awesome view from there, no?
Joe
How early should you line up if you have a red zone GA and want the rail?
Hi Linda,
Try arriving to the Red Zone line first thing in the morning of the show. Chances are there will be fans organizing a Red Zone line similar to a GA line. You should be able to score a good rail position if you arrive at that time.
Joe
Thanks for all this great info. I’ve been to 12 U2 shows but the Toronto show on June 23rd will be my first GA experience. I’ll be driving in from Montreal, the day of the concert and planning to be in the queue between 12-2pm. Friends of ours who have tickets with us on the same Credit Card will be there earlier (5-6 am) but we’re the one’s with the credit cards. Do you think we will have a problem getting in with them? or do you think they will have to wait for us before queuing?
Hi Aldo,
There’s a strong likelihood that the line managers will insist that everyone on the credit card be in line together. This has been a real challenge when it comes to the queue. With tickets in the past, whoever arrived later, would just wait in line when they arrived, and those further ahead could just save them a spot on the floor. But with credit card entry, the entire party needs to be together upon entry.
I’d suggest that your friends who get there earlier scope out the line and talk to the line managers about protocol. But don’t be disappointed or surprised if they say that everyone needs to be together, meaning that they have to wait till you get there.
In all honesty, I thing by the time you get there at noon, you’ll score 4th or 5th row main stage, so you’ll still get an awesome spot.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Thank you so much for this! My husband and I are taking our eleven-year-old twins to their very first U2 concert in Dallas on Friday. We have general admission… I was going to go early and wait all day and my husband will bring them after school. Do you think this will work? And do you think if I’m there by 9am we will still be in front? Seems like we should try to be in front of the tree so we can make sure they can see over the stage!? Thank you!
Hi Betsy,
I’m not sure what the GA rules will be for Dallas. I’d recommend dropping by the stadium Thursday after school to speak to the line managers and what they say about saving spots for children. I’d hate for you and your family to be disappointed if rules aren’t made clear or its rationale from the beginning.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Great info! I’ll be in Houston tomorrow night…is Edge mainly on the RED ZONE side or does he roam? I want to be near where he is but think by best bet for being near the stage is in front of Adam or on the extended tree stage side opposite the red zone…I won’t be there til around 3PM due to travel.
Hi Todd,
During the Joshua Tree set, Edge is often to the right of the catwalk but rarely in front of the Red Zone. For the pre and post Joshua Tree songs, he’ll be at the tree-stage. By 3pm, you should be around rows 5-8 main stage.
Joe
Joe,
Terrific info! Thanks for sharing this. So it sounds like most venues, during this tour so far, have not issued wristbands, allowing people to leave and return a few hours before the show? Is that correct? We’re going on Friday in Dallas and planning to stay all day in line, but wondering about the possibility of wristbands so we could leave and come back. I’ve got a call into the ticket office at AT&T Stadium to ask them, but if it’s run by fans, they may not know. Curious how it’s worked at other venues on this tour? Thanks in advance for any feedback you can provide.
Hi Darin,
You’re right. Most venues have not issued wristbands, except for Levi Stadium and the Rose Bowl. All queues will give you a number on your hand and put your name down in a book, so that will be enough for you to leave and come back into the line. Whenever you need to leave (to get food or stuff), it’s always a good idea to let your line neighbours that you’re stepping out momentarily and will be back.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Thanks for your info- planning on arriving very very early morning the day before the show at Gillette Stadium on 6/25. In your experience, how early the day before should we arrive for our best chance at the top of the tree? 4? 5?
Thanks!
Sharon
Hi Sharon,
If you’re in the top 40 or 50 in the queue, and are quick, you’ll get to the top of the tree easily. So getting there 5 in the morning the day before the show to get a number, you’ll be in good standing.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Hi Joe,
Thanks for the terrific info. Are fans doing the line que at every show? Correct me if I’m wrong did you say to get numbers the day/night Before the show? The que managers let you get number the night before and show back up the day of the show? I want the rail : ) Thanks again
I’m pretty confident that there will be a queue for every show and that it’ll be a check-in system, meaning that you if you get a number the day before, the line managers will want you to check in later that day (so you are free to go sight seeing or nap during the day) and check-in to the line some time in the evening. On the day of the show, you’ll be asked to check in that morning, and expected to stay for the day (but you can leave if you need to grab a bite to eat, use the washroom, or chat with people). If you want rail, get a number very early morning day before the show.
Thank you so much for this amazing info. This will be my 3rd U2 concert but my first GA experience. I am seeing the show on Wednesday in Houston. I live in San Antonio and will be trying to arrive in line before noon. All this insight will really help make my experience great! Thanks again!
Hi Joe Thanks for this amazing guide, this is almost like you taking our hands to get me across the street. Me will br attending the Miami show on june 11 and is my very first one, I can’t explain how excited I feel as this has being like a dream for me and my sister, we have been fans since the eighties and Joshua Tree is our favorite album. We will be traveling from Honduras and we are planing on getting the earliest possible on the day of the venue, What do you think is the best hour to get there and be on the rail at the time of the concert? How are the crowds and fans from Miami with U2 concerts? We were planing on getting there around 9 or 10 am… Any other tip will be welcome and again Thanks for this amazing guide!
Hi Carlos,
Great to hear you and your sister will be seeing U2 in Miami! To get a rail spot, I’d highly recommend going to the stadium the morning before the show to get a number in the queue. As mentioned in my guide, fans will be running the line. You’ll most likely need to be with your sister to get numbers. The line managers will probably tell you to check back in the line later that evening, and then the morning of the show.
Hope this helps!
Joe
Hi Joe,
Amazing info. I am considering going GA for my wife and I for the Toronto Concert. Is it an issue to with CC entry if I buy through stub hub, ticketmaster or vivid etc?
Thanks
Buying a GA through Stubhub or Vivid, there shouldn’t be an issue if they aren’t checking for IDs (which most venues don’t). My problem with them are they enable scalping, where tickets are sold higher than face value. When Ticketmaster moved to credit card entry, it was meant to curb scalping, but scaplers got around this by buying tickets with a gift credit card and selling those at an inflated price to fans.
In any event, if you buy a GA ticket with ticketmaster, there won’t be any issues if you bring your credit card with you, and ID in case the venue asks.
This is amazing! Cheers! Looking forward to Boston and both NY shows!
Hi Joe,
This information is incredible. Thank you so much. I have been to five U2 concerts but this will be my first concert ever with GA tickets. So many questions were answered in your info. I know we can’t get there until about 6pm due to work, etc… so we’ll do our best. I am 5’2″ and my boyfriend is 6’4″ so I’m sure he will have a much better view. Going to Wednesday’s concert (5/24) in Houston. Any viewing suggestions for my short self?
Hi Barbara,
If you arrive by 6pm, chances are the first 5-10 rows in front of the main stage and tree-stage might be taken up. Check it out first, but if it’s too cramped for your liking, go to the soundboard. The sound is best there and you’d be free to dance around and enjoy the spectacle. Try to approach Joe O’Herly – U2’s sound guru since the start – and say hi to him! The VIP areas are near the back and you may see some celebs there too.
Enjoy!
Joe
Thanks Joe! My BFF and I are going to do the GA line for the first time ever in Chicago. At 47, we are a little nervous about how we will do, so this is invaluable!!
Thanks, Melissa! I hope this helps!
Amazing work, Joe!
Will you be in Paris for TJT concerts?
Hey Jorge!
I will be in Paris for the two JT shows. See you there!
Joe
Joe,
I can’t thank you enough for all of this info! Amazingly helpful and generous of you. Will you be at the May 20 LA show?
Hi Andy,
Thanks for the kind note! Unfortunately, I won’t be at the LA show. Have a great time, though!
Joe
Hi Joe! Thank you for all the info. I am going to the show next week in Houston. First time going GA so I’m studying your site and taking notes! I am going with my husband and we both work full time. We took the day of the show off so we could line up in the morning but it sounds like I better drive by the stadium day before. I think I can make it up there on my lunch hour but was wondering if it will be for nothing as my husband won’t be able to go with me.. what do you think? Im hoping the Houston show won’t be as crazy as some of the others but want to maximize my chances of being up front.
Also, I want to buy some gear at the show but don’t want to lose my spot. Do the vendors usually sell after the show?
Thank you for all your help!! Sooooo excited!!!
Amy
Hi Amy,
I’d suggest driving to the stadium the day before (when you and your husband after work) to get a number in the queue. Since you plan on arriving in the morning the next day anyway, this at least gets you a decent number in the line. Feel free to bring chairs and stuff to be comfortable while in the line, and you’ll be able to go away to by U2 merchandise, use the washroom, or get some food. Around 3pm or so, you’ll be expected to put the chairs away.
Also, if you are unable to buy merchandise before the show, I’d recommend that once you get into the GA field, one of you – either your husband or yourself – make a quick jaunt to the merchanise table to buy something, while the other saves your spot on the floor. I’ve done this many times with no issue. I just spoke to those around me and they were cool with it.
Have a great time!
Joe
Very helpful article and I will continue to watch for updates as I have read about entry difficulties in Vancouver and Santa Clara. I have GA tix in both Pittsburgh and Cleveland with plans on doing a morning arrival for both shows. I am a little concerned about bringing a chair and cooler…..but I’m too old to sit on the concrete all day long!
Hi Tracy,
On the day of the show, feel free to bring a chair and cooler in the morning. We had that in Seattle, but by 3pm, we were asked to start putting our stuff away. So if you have a car or hotel near by, you’ll be okay to go away for half an hour or so to put the chair and cooler away.
Joe
Hi dear U2 super fan, thank you for this web site. I will go to U2 The Joshua Tree Tour show in Toronto on GA. Its the first time I’m gonna see them in Toronto. I’ve seen them in New York and Montreal. I was wondering how far in advance I have to get in the line-up to have a good place around the b stage? I imagine you’ve already seen them in Toronto? Is the line-up very long?
Also, do you know which gate to enter for General Admission?
Thank you if you can answer me. Have a great Tour ;-)!!!
Louise Lamber, U2 fan since 1985!
Hi Louise,
I think if you check out the GA line and get a number the day before (you’ll be expected to wait in line the day of the show), then you’ll be within the first two rows of the tree-stage.
I’ve seen U2 in Toronto (last time was 2005). I can’t remember which gate, but just walk around the stadium, and the GA line will be easy to find.
Good luck!
Joe
Great insights – Thank you!
A few weeks away from our Toronto show – I’m a little nervous about bringing my two boys ( 9 and 8) while at the same time excited about getting my guys introduced to U2 the right way. No rail for us / no full day lineups but none the less – i hope to give them 3 hours of awesomeness!
We’ll take your tips and apply them to our evening plans.
Hi Richard,
Thanks for the note! I can see how challenging it can be to line up the day of the show on a school day (Friday). If you arrive around 3 or 4 in the line, you’ll get a few rows away from a rail either near the tree-stage or the main stage. If you come a little later and find the GA field really full, best to enjoy the show near the sound board where the sound is great and lots of room to dance around. You can chat and say hi to U2’s sound guru, Joe O’Herly, super nice guy!
Hope this helps!
Joe
Hey Joe
Thanks for the follow up!
Just showed the boys your site and reply and they asked if we knew each other. I told them we didn’t but had U2 in common ! They kind of understood but still asked if they we were going to meet you at the show. ( to be 9 again)
Your suggestion about setting up near the soundboard makes a ton of sense. Should we be lucky enough to see Joe O’Herly – we’ll post the selfie!
Again – thanks for the help.
Richard , Zack and Tyler
Hi Richard,
We certainly have U2 in common! Along with hundreds of thousands of others around the world 🙂
Unfortunately, I won’t be at the show you guys will be seeing. I’ll rejoin the tour in Dublin, and from there, continue to Paris, Amsterdam, and end in Brussels.
Joe O’Herly is super nice and will be happy to take photos with fans!
https://twitter.com/joe_ahorro/status/779582440822177792
Have a great time!
Joe
Fantastic article, I really love the band and wish I could do GA. Can’t ever find the time to do it. Hope the shows you go to a great. If you’ll be in Miami, let me know.