Taking children to live events is one of the most rewarding things a family can do. The look on a child's face at their first concert, pantomime, or football match is something you do not forget. But buying tickets for family outings involves a few extra considerations: age restrictions, child pricing, suitability, and practical logistics. This guide covers everything you need to plan a smooth family outing.
Understanding age policies
Every venue and event has its own age policy, and these vary significantly:
Under-2s (babies and toddlers)
Many seated events allow children under two to attend free of charge, provided they sit on an adult's lap and do not occupy their own seat. Theatre, cinema, and some sports venues commonly offer this. However, not all events are suitable for very young children, and some venues have a minimum age regardless of ticketing.
Age restrictions at music events
Concert age policies vary by venue and event. Arena shows typically require all attendees to have a ticket, including children, and may specify a minimum age (often 5 or sometimes 14 for standing areas). Festival age policies differ: many family-friendly festivals welcome children of all ages, while others are strictly 18+.
Theatre age recommendations
Theatre shows usually carry an age recommendation rather than a strict restriction. A production recommended for ages 7+ means younger children may attend but might not enjoy or understand the content. Pantomimes and children's theatre typically welcome all ages. West End musicals often recommend a minimum age, and some enforce it.
Sports events
Most sports venues have no minimum age, though very young children must have a ticket if they are occupying a seat. Many clubs offer free or heavily discounted tickets for children under a certain age (commonly under-5 or under-7), with junior pricing for older children up to 16 or 18.
Child and family ticket pricing
The cost of children's tickets varies widely:
- Child tickets -- usually priced lower than adult tickets. The definition of "child" differs by venue: it might mean under-12, under-14, or under-16
- Family tickets -- a bundled ticket for a set combination of adults and children, typically two adults and two children (2+2) or one adult and two children (1+2). Family tickets usually offer a saving compared to buying individual tickets
- Junior or youth tickets -- for teenagers who are too old for child pricing but under 18 (or sometimes under 21)
- Babies on laps -- free at many events, but always check before you arrive. Some venues require even babies to have a ticket (free or otherwise) for fire safety headcount purposes
Always check the age bands for the specific event. A "child" ticket at one venue might cover ages 3 to 15, while at another it covers ages 5 to 12. Getting this wrong could mean paying for the wrong ticket type or being turned away at the door.
Choosing the right seats for families
Seating makes a bigger difference when children are involved:
- Aisle seats -- essential if young children might need to leave for the toilet during the show. Being on the aisle avoids disturbing a whole row
- Elevated positions -- in a stalls or ground-level section, adults standing in front can completely block a child's view. Raised seating or balcony positions can offer better sightlines for smaller people
- Not too close -- front-row seats are exciting for adults, but very young children can find the volume, lights, and proximity overwhelming. A few rows back often provides a better experience
- Family sections -- some sports grounds and concert venues designate family-friendly areas. These tend to have a calmer atmosphere and are often located where sightlines are good for children
Preparing children for the event
A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring everyone enjoys the experience:
- Explain what to expect -- if it is their first live event, talk them through what will happen: the queuing, the noise, the crowd, the interval
- Check the running time -- a show lasting three hours with a single interval is a big ask for a young child. Check the running time and decide whether it is realistic
- Bring ear protection -- concerts and sports events can be very loud. Children's ear defenders are inexpensive and can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a miserable one
- Arrive early -- rushing to get in adds stress. Arriving early lets children settle, find their seats, and take in the atmosphere
- Pack snacks and a drink -- venue prices for food and drink are typically high, and children get hungry at inconvenient moments
Booking tips for families
Book all tickets in one transaction
This is the single most important rule for family bookings. Buying all tickets in one order ensures your seats are together. If you buy in separate transactions, the system has no way of knowing the tickets are related and may seat you in different parts of the venue.
Use the seating map
If the platform offers an interactive seating map, use it. You can see exactly where your seats are, check proximity to exits and toilets, and make sure the positions work for your family's needs.
Check the refund and exchange policy
Children get ill at the worst possible times. Check whether the venue offers ticket exchanges or refunds for family bookings. Some theatres allow you to exchange for a different date free of charge if you give sufficient notice.
Consider accessibility needs
If anyone in your family has additional needs, book accessible tickets from the start rather than trying to arrange adjustments after purchase. Our guide to buying accessible tickets covers this in detail.
Events specifically designed for families
Many venues run events designed with families in mind:
- Relaxed performances -- theatre performances with adjusted lighting and sound, where movement and noise from the audience are welcomed. Ideal for very young children or children with sensory needs
- Matinee performances -- earlier start times that suit children's schedules and often attract a more family-oriented audience
- Family festival days -- many music and arts festivals have dedicated family days with activities, workshops, and age-appropriate programming
For more on managing the cost of family outings, see our guide to avoiding hidden fees. If you are buying tickets as a gift for a child, our guide to buying tickets as gifts has helpful tips on presentation and name-on-ticket policies.
