The Boston Celtics are one of the most successful and historic franchises in NBA history. With a passionate fan base and consistent playoff appearances, getting tickets to a Celtics game at TD Garden can sometimes be expensive. However, there are several strategies you can use to find affordable tickets without breaking the bank. This guide will provide detailed information on how to get cheap Boston Celtics tickets, ensuring you can experience the excitement of a live NBA game while saving money.
Why Are Boston Celtics Tickets Expensive?
Before diving into how to get cheap Celtics tickets, it’s important to understand why ticket prices can be high. Several factors influence the cost of tickets:
1. Team Popularity and Success
The Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, with a record number of championships and a dedicated fan base. When the team is performing well, demand for tickets increases, driving up prices.
2. Matchup Significance
Games against high-profile teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, or Milwaukee Bucks often have higher ticket prices due to increased demand. Rivalry games, playoff-clinching games, and special events like jersey retirements can also lead to price spikes.
3. Game Timing
Weekend games and prime-time matchups (such as those on ESPN or TNT) tend to be more expensive compared to weekday games, as more people are available to attend.
4. Seating Location
Lower-level seats near the court are significantly more expensive than upper-level seats. Courtside and VIP experiences come at a premium, whereas nosebleed sections offer a more budget-friendly option.
Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions when searching for affordable tickets.
Best Ways to Get Cheap Boston Celtics Tickets
1. Buy Tickets Early
One of the best ways to secure cheap tickets is to buy them as early as possible. When tickets go on sale, prices are often at their lowest before demand increases. Many ticket sellers use dynamic pricing, meaning that as demand rises, so do prices.
Purchasing tickets before the season starts or right after the schedule is released can save you money.
2. Be Flexible with Game Dates
If you have the flexibility to choose which game to attend, look for games against lower-ranked teams or those scheduled on weekday nights. Games against less popular opponents or those held on a Tuesday or Wednesday tend to be much cheaper than weekend games against star-studded teams.
3. Buy from Resale Marketplaces
Secondary ticket marketplaces often provide opportunities to purchase tickets at a discount. Some of the best platforms to find affordable Celtics tickets include:
StubHub – Offers a wide range of ticket prices with buyer guarantees.
SeatGeek – Provides a price score, helping you identify the best value tickets.
Vivid Seats – Regularly offers discounts and promo codes for first-time buyers.
Gametime – Best for last-minute ticket purchases at reduced prices.
Tickets on resale platforms can sometimes be below face value, especially as the game date approaches.
4. Check Official Celtics Ticket Promotions
The Boston Celtics occasionally offer promotional discounts, especially for specific games. Check the team’s official website and subscribe to their newsletter for:
- Special deals and flash sales
- Discounts for students, military personnel, and first responders
- Group ticket offers
Following the Celtics on social media can also help you stay updated on promotions.
5. Use Discount Codes and Cashback Offers
Many ticketing websites offer discount codes, especially for new customers. You can often find promo codes on:
- RetailMeNot
- Honey (browser extension that finds discounts automatically)
- Rakuten (cashback on ticket purchases)
Additionally, some credit cards provide cashback or discounts on entertainment purchases, which can help reduce costs.
6. Wait Until Game Day for Last-Minute Deals
If you’re comfortable taking a risk, waiting until the day of the game can yield significant savings. Many ticket holders drop prices drastically a few hours before tip-off to avoid losing money on unsold tickets. Apps like Gametime specialize in last-minute ticket deals and often offer great discounts.
7. Buy Standing Room or Upper-Level Seats
If you’re looking for the cheapest possible tickets, consider:
Upper-level seats – These are typically the most affordable seats in TD Garden.
Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets – Some games offer standing room access, which is cheaper than a regular seat but still provides the game-day experience.
You can also try upgrading your seat after the game starts if lower sections have empty seats.
8. Purchase Season Tickets and Resell Unused Games
If you’re a frequent Celtics fan, consider investing in a season ticket package. While the upfront cost is high, you can:
- Sell high-demand games for a profit
- Attend multiple games at a lower per-game price
- Get exclusive perks and playoff ticket access
Platforms like Ticketmaster Resale or StubHub allow you to easily sell tickets for games you can’t attend.
9. Attend Preseason or Early-Season Games
Preseason games and games early in the season are often much cheaper than mid-season and late-season matchups. These games still offer a great atmosphere, and you can watch key players before the playoff push begins.
10. Consider Buying Group Tickets
If you’re attending a game with friends or family, purchasing a group ticket package can lead to significant savings. Many teams, including the Celtics, offer discounts for large groups, which can bring down the per-ticket cost.
11. Look for Local Discounts and Employee Perks
Certain companies and organizations have partnerships with NBA teams, offering their employees discounted tickets. Check with:
- Your employer (especially large companies with entertainment perks)
- Student organizations (many colleges have Celtics ticket deals for students)
- Military or first responder discounts
Websites like ID.me often list military and government employee discounts for NBA games.
Conclution
Getting cheap Boston Celtics tickets requires a mix of planning, flexibility, and strategic purchasing. By using resale platforms, monitoring official promotions, and taking advantage of last-minute deals, you can experience the excitement of a live Celtics game without overspending.
Whether you’re a die-hard Celtics fan or just looking to enjoy an NBA game at TD Garden, following these strategies will help you score the best deals possible. Happy ticket hunting!
