So you have a GA (general admission) ticket for an upcoming 360 show? Well done! Here's all you need to know about the U2 360 GA line experience, written especially for fans who've never experienced it before.
1) The best time to arrive at the venue
There is much debate about this! The best approach is to decide what spot you want inside the stadium to watch the show.
If this is your first GA experience and you absolutely have to be in the front row to see the band up close, then you'll increase your chances by arriving early. The earlier you get in line, the more likely you'll be able to see the concert from exactly where you want.
But there is no real definite time to arrive at the venue if you want to be in the front row or inner circle. It depends how many fans decide to line up and when they show up at the stadium. At some shows, 8:00 a.m. might be early enough; at others, it might be 5:00 or 6:00 a.m.
You might decide to arrive later in the day and still get lucky by finding space in the inner circle. Or you might not get lucky like that. It's a chance you take.
Some people believe that lining up early gives you more options than arriving later, because if the crowd gets to be too much inside the stadium you can always change your mind and stay farther back from the stage where there's more space.
2) Essentials for the GA line
Make sure you have plenty of water, food and snacks because it will be a long day. That's particularly true if you have been in line from the early morning; the gates usually don't open until late afternoon. Some venues will have people selling bottles of water outside the venue and there may also be stands where you can buy hot food such as burgers and hotdogs while you wait in line.
A fully charged mobile phone is essential to communicate with friends.
Comfort is key for the GA line! A pair of comfortable shoes is ideal. Make sure you have appropriate clothing for the weather, rain or shine. Some fans like to bring a chair or blanket or something to sit on. Some bring radios/stereos and cards or games; you'll need something to keep yourself occupied if you plan to line up all day.
3) The GA line - what to expect
If you have made the decision to be there early, be aware that fans might be camped out. Obviously this will depend on the venue's location and if camping is permitted.
A numbering system might be in place when you arrive. You'll need to find the person/people giving out numbers and get yours. (They're usually at the front of the line.) Once you get a number, you're usually free to leave the line for short periods of time. You may need to be present for a roll call(s) at various times throughout the day. Be nice and get to know the people in line around you so that you're aware of what everyone will tolerate when it comes to coming and going throughout the day.
Bear in mind that this numbering system doesn't happen everywhere, so it may be the case that people in the line organize themselves and keep an eye on those who try to jump the queue.
Make sure you use the bathroom while you are still in the GA line. Once inside the stadium, it's harder to leave your spot to use the bathroom and return to the exact same place you were before. (That applies if you're up close to the stage or rail and have dozens/hundreds of fans behind you.)
Before entering the venue, there will be a security check. If you have chairs, umbrellas, etc., you will not be allowed to bring them in. You can either dispose of them or return them to your car, although rules vary from venue to venue. If you have bottles of water, you won't be allowed to bring them in. However, you can buy bottled water inside the venue.
Some venues might not let you bring certain merchandise items inside the stadium (the 360 tour mug that was available in Europe, for example), so you may need to return them to your car, too.
4) Gates opening – what to expect
Once the gates are open most people will try to make a run for it, despite security urging people not to run. So, if possible, try walking as quickly as you can. Be aware that there is no lottery for selecting who gets inside the inner circle; it really is a case of first come, first served.
A good idea is to have a designated meeting point arranged with your friends in case you get separated when the gates open. If you plan to go into the inner circle, there will be two entrances -- one on each side of the claw.
5) Best spot once inside
For some fans, the front row is the best spot. For others, the front rail outside the catwalk is ideal because you see the video screen and get a great view of the claw – and the band also tends to come down onto the catwalk several times during the show, so it's the best of both worlds. Bono, Edge and Adam spend the most time out on the catwalk. Larry only makes an appearance during the “Crazy” remix.
If you prefer to take in the full 360 experience from a distance, standing near the sound/mixing desk is ideal. From back here, you have plenty of freedom to walk around, dance and do things like use the bathroom whenever you need to.
6) ) Alternatives to the GA line
If you would like to experience GA in a little comfort without the all-day lining up, the (RED) Zone experience is for you. The (RED) Zone is situated on both sides of the stage. You have a great view and can come and go as you please. Seats are available all around the (RED) Zone.
You are also doing your bit for the ONE campaign when you buy a (RED) Zone ticket. However, these tickets are expensive, so if you're on a budget this may not be an option.
7) Seated tickets
If, after reading the above, you decide that GA is not for you, then seats are a great option. You can come and go as you please, get a drink, buy your merchandise and have your own seat. For some people, however, the vibe isn't the same in the seats, so if you're looking for more of an atmosphere and a buzz you might consider a GA ticket after all.
8) Finally!
No matter where you are in the stadium -- (RED) Zone, GA or seats -- you are in for an amazing show!
We hope this GA line/ticket guide has been helpful. If you still have questions, feel free to visit the TOURS board in our fan forum and ask the helpful fans there!
(c) @U2/Foster, 2011.
