Ready for MOA Arena? Here are Top 10 Tips for an Epic Concert Experience!

Live events, especially concerts, are seriously one of life’s top-tier experiences. It’s your golden chance to see your faves, your idols, your entire ~raison d’être~ (okay, maybe dramatic, but you get it). Plus, it's the perfect time to vibe with your fellow stans and scream-sing those songs you've had on repeat forever. With so many events happening, especially at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, there’s bound to be one event that you are just raring to see. 

But hold your horses! Before the unforgettable night begins, here are a few things you’ve got to keep in mind to make sure this epic moment goes off without a hitch.

Top 5 Must-Do’s for concerts and live events:

1. Plan Ahead

This goes without saying but merits repeating anyway. Planning ahead means securing, first and foremost, the most important item for this event to happen: the ticket!

Here’s a sample of the ticket categorization and seating arrangement
for the upcoming 2-day Sold Out 2NE1 Welcome Back Asia Tour in Manila.

“But what ticket should I get?” is probably the answer you’re thinking about. Well, the answer depends on energy, comfort levels, and who you’re going to watch it with. Concerts and events held at the MOA Arena typically vary in ticket categorization and seating arrangements but generally, there are basically 4 tiers to choose from: Patron (also called VIP, usually on the floor itself, which could either be standing or seated), Lower Box, Upper Box, and General Admission. 

For those with 100% energy levels, it’s the patron / VIP section for you.

This section is not just for the young ones, tbh. It’s for everyone who has the energy levels of a bunny and has the total capacity to let your energy loose. The patron section is the ideal place to be, especially if you have the capacity to splurge on the ultimate concert experience. It has the best views, so your idols are just a few steps away from you.

For those who want the perfect balance, go for the lower boxes

Best for balancing excitement and comfort, you’re close to the stage but don’t have to worry about standing the whole time. You can enjoy a clear view, perfect for singing along and living your best life while still being able to chill.

For the parents and the titas of Manila, consider the upper boxes

Ideal if you want a great view of the whole production without being in the thick of it. You get to enjoy the energy of the crowd but with a bit more space and comfort—especially if you’re bringing kids or just want to unwind after a long day.

For those who are on a budget but still want to feel the vibe, gen ad is your best bet.

While they are not the best seats in town, they still give you that slot to get into the concert feels and enjoy the event as it unfolds. No matter how far you are from your faves, being there in the same venue and reveling in the frenetic atmosphere of your fellow fans still hits differently!

MOA Arena is proud to be PWD-friendly! If you're a concertgoer using a wheelchair, there are accessible seats available in the lower box (Sections 201 and 222) and upper box (Sections 401, 406, and 417), so you can join in on the fun and rock out to your favorite artists comfortably.

2. Arrive EarlyThere’s gonna be lines everywhere so please come early!

Get to the venue ahead of time to find parking, grab snacks, and settle in. With all the fans coming to watch the same event as you, best believe that there will be lines *everywhere*! By arriving early, you can enjoy the opening acts without rushing.

3. Respect Personal SpaceJust keep calm and enjoy the show!

Concerts can get crowded—especially when you are in the pit area—but try to be mindful of others’ space. Avoid pushing, shoving, or blocking anyone’s view unnecessarily.

4. Bring Essentials

Pack your essentials in small bags as larger bags might not be allowed inside the venue.

Carry items like ID (these are sometimes needed to verify that you are the rightful ticket holder #NotToScalpers), tickets (or e-tickets), some cash, light sticks, and a portable charger. Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing suited to the venue.

5. Engage with the Performance

The performers loved an engaged crowd.

Sing along, dance, and show your excitement! Artists love seeing engaged and energetic crowds, but make sure you're not overpowering others' experience.

6. Follow Venue and Organizer Rules

Here’s an example of the concert guidelines for the BTOB Fan-Con last May 2024

Abide by the venue’s policies, like no-smoking zones, restricted areas, and phone-use restrictions during specific parts of the performance. Some organizers would actually prohibit filming of the event. While this is tricky to actually implement, given the number of people who own a camera phone nowadays, there still are cases where fans were asked to leave the premises and only come back when footage has been deleted. You don’t want to miss even the slightest moment of the event so to err on the side of caution, just abide by the rules. 

And on the other hand, here are the Top 5 Nope’s 

1. Don’t Record the Entire Show

Film only a few moments and then put your phones away. Live in the moment!

It’s tempting to record everything, but trust us, filming the whole concert will only pull you out of the moment. When you get home and check out those videos, you’ll realize it’s pretty much like watching fancams on YouTube or TikTok—definitely not the same vibe! Grab a few clips, then put your phone away and soak it all in. Be present and let the magic happen live, not just through your screen.

2. Don’t be disruptive

Flash photography or videography can be super distracting, which is why it is always prohibited at events.

We totally get it—you spent good money on this event, so of course, you want the best experience possible. That’s super valid! But remember, everyone else is there to have their moment too. There are so many ways to live it up at the concert and still get your money’s worth without ruining it for others. While concerts aren’t exactly the place to be demure, we’ve still got to be mindful. And yes, that includes no flash recordings!

3. Don’t block views with signs or props

Banners and signs are welcome at events—just make sure they don’t block the view of the people behind you.

Fan clubs often handout banners for everyone in attendance. Some fans also make their own banners because truth be told, they are a good way to get your idols to notice you. And they work too! But, like the tip above, be mindful of the people behind you. You might get the artist’s attention but only at the expense of the people behind you—and we (including the artists) don’t want that.

4. Don’t push your way to the front

Don’t push and shove other people just to get to the front.

This one’s particularly true for the people in the pit area. Everyone’s there to enjoy the show. Respect the space where others are standing, and avoid forcing your way into spots. The movement of people in the pits can be dynamic. Just wait for your turn and you’ll eventually find that a spot nearer the stage will open up and is yours for the taking.

5. Don’t ignore safety measures

MOA Arena has emergency plans in place, so be sure to pay attention when it is announced before the events.

MOA Arena would often show the safety measure videos before the events begin. Pay attention and remember to identify the emergency exits near you. In case of emergencies or venue announcements, always follow instructions for your safety and others. Ignoring safety protocols can put you and others at risk.

We hope your next concert experience at the MOA Arena is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. Meet your faves, sing your heart out, support their art, and soak in every moment. Follow these tips for the ultimate live event experience, and remember—everyone deserves to enjoy the show just as much as you do!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X to stay updated with all the latest news and happenings here at SM Supermalls. You can also check the updated entry guidelines and mall hours for 2024 here.