Fall is the true merriest time of the year for many sports fans.
It's a season full of bountiful gifts, including college and NFL football games each weekend, the MLB post season and the kickoff for the NHL and NBA seasons.
While seeing games in person is the ultimate experience for many, it isn't a joyous time for your budget if you decide to go. Take professional football, for example, where a family of four spends just over $631 to attend a game, according to the 2023 Fan Cost Index.
Below are tips for you and your wallet to celebrate this fall whether seeing games in person or in the comfort of your own home.
- Buy season tickets: If you attend games regularly, season tickets might be the cheaper way to go; single-game tickets often add up to more. Consider splitting season tickets with a friend or selling tickets to a big game to help offset the cost of the full season.
- Buy tickets from the box office: Avoid online fees by purchasing directly from the venue.
- Attend off-peak games: Weekday games or less popular matchups often equate to cheaper tickets.
- Look for group discounts: Rally your friends and family to qualify for a group rate.
- Go to a training camp or preseason game: If a regular season game is beyond your budget, catch your favorite players before the official season kicks in.
- Buy tickets in advance: Prices might be lower if you purchase tickets early.
- Volunteer: Some events offer free entry to volunteers.
- Join fan clubs: Many teams offer discounts and special offers for members.
- Watch games at home: Save money by streaming games or watching them on TV. Do your homework to find the best sports bundles or promotional packages.
- Host a watch party: Plan a potluck and share the costs while still cheering side by side.
- Tailgate to save on food and drinks: Avoid inflated concession prices by filling your belly before you head into the stadium. Have a big group? Buy in bulk for even more savings. If allowed, you can also bring your own snacks into the game.
- Look for promotions and sign up for email alerts: Many teams offer games with discounted tickets and giveaways. You can also follow your favorite team(s) online to get special offers and discounts.
- Take advantage of family deals: Sports teams often offer family nights with discounted tickets and/or food and drink packages.
- Check for student, military, and senior discounts: Many venues offer reduced pricing for certain groups.
- Attend minor league or college games: Tickets are more affordable, and the talent is still exceptional.
- Use credit cards rewards: Some credit cards offer discounts or rewards for buying tickets.
- Avoid buying merchandise at stadiums: Shop online or at other retail stores and watch for discount codes and coupons to get your goods for less.
- Carpool and scout out free or affordable parking: Going to a game? Share the cost of gas and parking with friends. And break out your walking shoes to avoid premium parking prices.
Now, with these tips in mind, suit up in team colors and enjoy the upcoming fall sports season without breaking the bank!
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We hope you found this helpful. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on information available as of August 2024 and is subject to change. This content is not intended to be used or acted upon with respect to any client's specific circumstances. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consider talking with your qualified professionals.
TD Bank, TD Wealth® and their employees do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice.