Can’t Afford Lakers Tickets? These Events Still Let You Celebrate Like a Fan



Attending a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena is a dream come true for many fans — but with ticket prices soaring in 2025, not everyone can swing the cost of entry. The good news? You don’t need to be courtside to celebrate like a true Lakers fan. From free viewing parties to affordable local fan events, Los Angeles is packed with opportunities to feel the excitement, cheer for the purple and gold, and soak in that legendary Lakers energy — no ticket required.

Here are the best alternatives to attending a Lakers game in person, guaranteed to give you the full fan experience without the four-figure price tag.

🎉 1. Official Lakers Watch Parties: Free, Live, and Electrifying

Throughout the season, the Lakers host official watch parties across Southern California. These events often take place in:

  • Local bars and restaurants

  • Outdoor plazas and parks

  • LA Live near Crypto.com Arena

You’ll find:

  • Giant LED screens for live viewing

  • Lakers Girls appearances

  • Giveaways and free swag

  • Special guests (sometimes former players)

Cost: FREE
Vibe: Just like being at the game — but with cheaper drinks and no parking headaches.

🍻 2. Lakers Fan Bars Across L.A.

The city is home to dozens of Lakers-themed sports bars that go all-in on game nights. You’ll be surrounded by fans, chants, and wall-to-wall screens.

Top Spots Include:

  • Big Wangs (Downtown LA): Legendary for Lakers game nights

  • The Parlor (Hollywood): Chic sports lounge with indoor/outdoor seating

  • Busby’s West (Santa Monica): A Lakers staple on the Westside

Many offer:

  • Happy hour specials

  • Game-day menus

  • Contests and Lakers merch giveaways

Cost: Free entry; just buy food or drinks

📺 3. Lakers Viewing Lounge at LA Live

Can’t get into the arena? Head to LA Live, the entertainment hub right next door.

During home games, the area transforms into a fan-friendly Lakers viewing plaza with:

  • Live game screenings on massive outdoor screens

  • DJs and halftime contests

  • Pop-up food stands and drink vendors

  • Fan photo ops and branded installations

Cost: Free to enter, with optional food/drink purchases
Bonus: You’re surrounded by real-time excitement just steps from the arena.

🎮 4. Play the Game: Lakers Fan Nights with NBA 2K

Don’t just watch the Lakers — play as them. Local gaming lounges and community centers frequently host:

  • NBA 2K tournaments

  • Lakers trivia nights

  • Fantasy league watch parties

It’s a fun, low-cost way to celebrate your fandom and meet others who live and breathe Lakers basketball.

Entry fees: Often free or under $10
Perks: Prizes, drink specials, and real Lakers memorabilia giveaways

📷 5. Attend Lakers Open Practices or Community Events

The Lakers occasionally host:

  • Open practices

  • Youth clinics

  • Charity events

  • Fan meet-and-greets

These events offer rare behind-the-scenes access and often don’t require a ticket to attend.

Stay updated through:

  • The official Lakers app

  • Showtime Investors event calendar

  • Lakers’ Instagram and Twitter

Tip: These fill up quickly — RSVP early!

🚗 6. Lakers Drive-In Nights — Yes, They Still Exist

During playoffs or big rivalry games, some venues in LA host drive-in screenings where fans can watch from their cars or picnic under the stars.

Where to find them:

  • Rose Bowl Parking Lot

  • Griffith Park Pop-Up Events

  • Local fairgrounds and college campuses

Why it’s cool:

  • Affordable ($20–$30 per car)

  • Great for groups

  • Bring your own snacks and vibe to live crowd energy

🛍️ 7. Shop Lakers Pop-Ups and Local Fan Markets

Celebrate off the court with Lakers-themed shopping events, often hosted around key game days. Look for:

  • Pop-up shops near Crypto.com Arena

  • Art and sneaker expos with Lakers themes

  • Streetwear markets with licensed merch and memorabilia

Some even feature:

  • Live DJs

  • Meetups with local influencers

  • Custom jersey stations

Cost: Entry is often free — just budget for gear!

🎟️ Want Tickets Anyway? Try These Cheap Workarounds

Can’t resist being in the building at least once? Try these:

  • Use Showtime Investors to find last-minute resale deals

  • Join rewards programs through Ticketmaster or credit card points

  • Go to weekday games or matchups against lower-ranked teams

  • Split season tickets with friends or co-workers

Even if you only go to one game a season, you’ll get the full impact.

🏀 Final Word: Being a Lakers Fan Isn’t About the Seat — It’s About the Spirit

You don’t need front-row seats to be part of the action. From packed fan bars and open-air watch parties to community-driven events and gaming nights, there are plenty of ways to live and breathe Lakers basketball without spending hundreds on a ticket.

Celebrate smarter. Cheer louder. And never underestimate the power of Lakers Nation — wherever you are.


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