Concert Guru

Ok, so the Today Show Concert Series isn't what you'd call a typical concert, but at the same time, it is a way to see bigger artists up-close and for FREE!  Tickets just need to be requested through the Today Show's site.  It's definitely helpful to sign up for updates on when the free fan passes will be available, as the biggest names go quickly.

Sign up link for Fan Passes/updates: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/3e8775e0e09c480aa2febe1a8f037219

There are a couple of things to keep in mind if you've never attended a morning show taping, especially ones with "live" music.

First, don't go in expecting a full-blown concert.  At best, you might hear 5 or 6 songs, some of which you might hear performed 2 or 3 times while you're there.  These are all recorded to be played "live" on the Today Show from 7-10 a.m.  Recording of the songs usually starts a little after 6 a.m. and goes on and off until about 9 a.m. at the latest.

Which leads to the second point:  Unless you live in NYC, expect to get up very early to travel into NYC for these "concerts."  Lineup usually begins around 4:30-5 a.m. outside of the plaza.  Keep in mind, you MUST have a Fan Pass to gain entry into the plaza.  (It's all GA, so the earlier you arrive, the closer to the stage you'll be.)  Trust us, they check everyone's badges, so there's definitely no sneaking in.

Yes, you can hear the music from around the corners but don't expect good views, if any.  The plaza itself is small, and sometimes they use a circular stage to open up the other side of the plaza (on the side of the famous ice skating rink) to allow more people with Fan Passes in, but no matter what, they cram a lot of people into a small city block-sized alley.

Most importantly, there are NO bathrooms, seating, or food available.  Once you're in "the pen", unless you're leaving for good, there's no re-entry.  You'll be on your feet for a good 4 hours or so, so wear comfortable shoes, and dress properly as you will be outdoors the entire time.  (Check the info on the Today Show's website to see what you're allowed to bring in with you.)

With all of that said, the sound quality is concert quality (interestingly, it actually sounds even better sandwiched between two skyscrapers) and, while there is lighting, it's the early morning hours so it doesn't really add all that much to the experience.

Overall, it's a cool little "concert" to check out if you're able to.  It's definitely not a typical concert but it's a fun way to see an artist up close and hear a few songs.  Just expect your day to start very early and be on your feet for a few hours.  Who knows...maybe you'll catch a glimpse of yourself in the crowd on that morning's episode of The Today Show.

Added bonus:  During the taping, the hosts of the Today Show will usually come out at least once and walk the perimeter of the crowd to say hi and shake hands.  Al Roker and Savannah Guthrie are super nice, so be sure to say hi to them!