RFIndependence Yeah, I hear you on behavior at some concerts.  As long as people don’t start moshing hard core or try to rush the stage, being paid security at a concert s a great way to hear your favorite band live.

MartinV Yeah, saving money on fun events is the way to go.  Film festivals can be super fun, especially if you’re in a smaller festival.  I volunteered at the Astoria Film Festival two years ago and got to see some short films I’d probably never see otherwise.  It wasn’t a big film festival but it was a great experience.

SunnySonrisa I’m glad this idea works for you. here’s to experiencing new fun!

LastLivingMember CatieM I agree… sometimes the volunteering isn’t worth it.  Sometimes what you receive doesn’t necessarily equal the entire value, and in the case of PAX East, may not be worth it.  Volunteering at GoogaMooga on the surface may not make sense to people, considering the event was free.  But it was an event that “sold out” so volunteering got me guaranteed admission. We also did get $30 worth of food vouchers for a 6 hour volunteer shift that combined with guaranteed admission was worth it in my eyes.

CatieM I volunteered at an AWP Conference in the past, too! It was a great way to save $150ish with only a couple hours work. However I’ve seen some other conference volunteer ops that were pretty terrible. I had a friend volunteer at PAX East (nerd conference) and I think he had to put in three eight-hour shifts to get a free pass ($70 value). That just didn’t seem worth it to me. At some point you’re better off just paying the price and enjoying the event to the fullest.