Broadway is a quintessential New York City experience, but it can also be an expensive one. While the peak tourist seasons (spring and holidays) often see high demand and high prices, August offers a unique opportunity for savvy theatergoers to score deals. As the summer winds down and some New Yorkers head out of town, the demand for tickets can soften, leading to better availability and discounts.
Here is your guide on how to score the best Broadway deals and cheap tickets this August 2025.
Why August is a Good Time for Deals
While blockbuster hits (like “The Lion King,” “Wicked,” or the latest Tony Award winners) rarely offer deep discounts, many other excellent shows do. August, particularly late August, is often considered a “shoulder season” for Broadway. The initial summer tourist rush has passed, and the fall season hasn’t started yet. This lull can lead to theaters offering discounts to fill seats.
Strategies for Scoring Cheap Broadway Tickets
There are several proven strategies for getting discounted Broadway tickets. Success often depends on flexibility, persistence, and a bit of luck.
1. The TKTS Booth: The Classic Discount
What it is: The TKTS booths, operated by the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), offer same-day tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows at discounts ranging from 20% to 50% off.
Locations:
- Times Square: The iconic red steps at Duffy Square (Broadway and 47th Street).
- Lincoln Center: Located in the David Rubenstein Atrium. This location is often less crowded and also offers next-day matinee tickets.
Tips for August:
- Check the App: Download the official TKTS app to see what shows are available in real-time.
- Flexibility is Key: You won’t know exactly what’s available until the day of the show. Have a few options in mind.
- Lines: Lines can still be long in August, especially in Times Square. The Lincoln Center booth is usually faster.
2. Digital Lotteries: The Lucky Draw
What it is: Most Broadway shows offer a limited number of deeply discounted tickets (often $10-$40 each) through digital lotteries. You enter online, and winners are notified on the day of the show (or the day before).
How to Enter:
- Official Show Websites: Many shows host their own lotteries through platforms like Telecharge or Broadway Direct.
- Apps: The TodayTix app also hosts lotteries for some shows.
Tips for August:
- Enter Everything: You can enter multiple lotteries for the same day. Persistence pays off.
- Be Ready to Buy: If you win, you usually have a limited time (often an hour) to purchase the tickets online.
3. Rush Tickets (General and Student): The Early Bird Strategy
What it is: Rush tickets are discounted same-day tickets sold directly at the theater box office when it opens (usually 10:00 AM). They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- General Rush: Open to everyone.
- Student Rush: Requires a valid student ID.
Tips for August:
- Arrive Early: For popular shows, people start lining up hours before the box office opens. However, in late August, the lines might be shorter than during peak season.
- Check Policies: Not all shows offer rush tickets. Check the specific show’s website or Playbill.com for policies and pricing.
4. TodayTix App: Convenience and Discounts
What it is: TodayTix is a popular app that offers discounted tickets for shows up to 30 days in advance. While the discounts might not be as steep as rush or lottery tickets, the convenience is unmatched.
Tips for August:
- Check Regularly: TodayTix often runs special promotions and “no-fee” deals.
- Set Alerts: You can set alerts for specific shows to be notified when prices drop.
5. Discount Websites and Codes
What it is: Several websites offer discount codes for Broadway shows.
- BroadwayBox.com, Playbill.com, TheaterMania.com: These sites aggregate discount codes that can be used when purchasing tickets online (through Telecharge or Ticketmaster) or at the box office.
Tips for August:
- Look for Mid-Week Shows: Discounts are more common for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday performances.
General Tips for August Broadway Attendance
- Be Flexible with Shows and Dates: The more flexible you are, the better your chances of finding a deal. Consider seeing a newer show or a long-running play instead of the hottest musical.
- Consider Off-Broadway: Off-Broadway shows offer incredible theater experiences at a fraction of the price of Broadway shows. August is a great time to explore the Off-Broadway scene.
- Dress Code: While Broadway is generally casual, the theaters are often heavily air-conditioned in August. Bring a light sweater or jacket.
Seeing a Broadway show doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategy and a bit of flexibility, you can enjoy the magic of Broadway this August at a discounted price.
