Stranger Things Finale Theatrical Release Sees High Resale Ticket Prices

The highly anticipated finale of Stranger Things is set to hit theaters, with fans scrambling for tickets. The event will take place on January 1, featuring screenings across the United States and Canada. The series finale drops on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET on New Year’s Eve.

High Demand for Stranger Things Finale Tickets

Tickets for the theatrical release went on sale on December 2 for $11 each. This price includes an $11 voucher for concessions. Due to high demand, tickets sold out rapidly, prompting fans to seek resale options on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

Resale Market Insights

Fans reported significant markups on resale tickets. Some listings featured prices starting at $25, with others reaching as high as $200 per ticket. Resellers are capitalizing on the limited availability, with many listings sold out or priced well above face value.

• $11 – Original ticket price, which includes a concession voucher.
• $25 – Lowest resale price offered by some sellers.
• $200 – Highest resale price listed for tickets.

Omar Hassanali, a fan from Mississauga, Ontario, expressed frustration with the resale market. He hoped to attend the finale with his children, aged 13 and 15, but found ticket availability slim after learning about the event too late. He finally secured six tickets for a January 1 screening at face value.

The Implications of Ticket Reselling

Unlike concerts or major sports events, ticket reselling is less common for theater screenings. However, the popularity of the Stranger Things finale has sparked ticket scalping activity, similar to past incidents at events like the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Vass Bednar, managing director of the Canadian SHIELD Institute, noted that the resale of tickets in theaters typically remains limited due to fewer sellout events. “Specialty events,” he stated, “are the exception rather than the rule.”

Measures to Combat Reselling

Cineplex aims to prevent ticket scalping by limiting the number of tickets individuals can purchase. The company is also exploring additional strategies to ensure fair ticket access. Measures could include digital tethering, connecting tickets directly to the purchaser, though this poses challenges for fans wishing to transfer tickets.

Future Considerations

As the demand for live events increases, potential legislative actions may emerge. For instance, recent proposals in the U.K. aim to prohibit reselling tickets above face value, aiming to protect fans from excessive markups. However, critics warn that strict regulations might lead to unintended consequences, such as creating black markets.

For those still seeking to experience the finale in person, Cineplex confirms that a small number of tickets may still be available at the theater. Additionally, many bars and restaurants across Canada are organizing watch parties for fans wishing to celebrate in a communal setting.