Three ways to get in
With 650 bands playing at 50 venues across town, there’s a hell of a lot of music to catch at NXNE. Those of you who’ve spent your rent money on beer can still hear great bands for nothing at Yonge-Dundas Square (see preview, page 74), at seven free park and public-space stages and on two stages at Pearson Airport. Keep in mind that many of the bigger names will also be playing intimate club shows, including secret late-night parties. For the rest of us, there are three ways to get the most out of NXNE. Hit nxne.com for info on where to pick up your wristbands/passes.
Wristbands
NXNE wristbands are the cheapest way to see the greatest number of bands, and will get you into all club shows and film screenings. Not only that, but they also allow you to bypass all the lowly ticket holders and go straight to the front of the line. Your options are the five-day ($50), the one-day ($25) and the film-festival-only ($25) wristband.
Passes
If you’re not fond of waiting in line, you’ll want to spring for a Priority Pass ($200, students $100), which will get you in before everyone else, including wristbands. These are also the only way you’ll be able to catch folks like Mudhoney and X speaking at all the great conference events. However, if you were hoping to buy a pass to the inaugural NXNE Interactive conference, sorry, it’s sold out.
Cover charges
Of course you can always just pay the cover charge at the door, but that only makes financial sense if you’re set on only checking out a showcase or two.
