TICKETS, SEATING & REGISTRATION
What kind of tickets are available?
All tickets in the Orchestra level, Tier 1 and Tier 2 feature reserved (assigned) seats. Open seating (general admission) is available in Tier 3 at a lower price point.
How do I sign up for Discovery Sessions and discussions on the Pew Stage?
Click on the Discovery Session or discussion you want to attend in the event schedule tab to see sign up instructions. Note: You'll need to create a Sched account to reserve your seat.
ARRIVAL & EVENT DAY LOGISTICS
What time should I arrive?
Doors will open at 9 a.m. Please allow ample time for parking, clearing security and checking in at the box office.
Can I enter late or leave early?
You’re free to come and go into the venue as you see fit. Within the Kimmel Center’s Marian Anderson Hall, each TED Talk is being filmed for a global audience, so we will observe closed-door sessions.That means entry to and exit from the theater is permitted only during the brief transitions between speakers to ensure the best experience for our guests and film crew.
What is the dress code?
Most attendees will opt for “smart casual,” something that makes you feel confident but is comfortable enough for a full day of discovery. We recommend comfortable shoes for exploring the space during breaks.
Is there a bag policy?
To ensure a smooth entry, we recommend bringing only small personal items. Large backpacks or luggage are not permitted.
GETTING THERE & NAVIGATING THE VENUE
What’s the best way to get to the venue via public transit?The Kimmel Center is located on Broad Street and is incredibly accessible via SEPTA. We highly recommend using public transit to skip the Center City traffic.
- Via Broad Street Line (Subway): Take the “B” to the Walnut-Locust Station. From there, it is a quick two-block walk south to the venue entrance.
- Via Regional Rail: All Regional Rail lines stop at Suburban Station. From there, you can take a pleasant 15-minute walk down 15th Street or transfer to the Broad Street (“B”) Line at City Hall Station.
- Via Bus: Routes 4, 27 and 32 travel directly along Broad Street and stop just steps from the Kimmel’s front doors. If you are coming from the east or west, Route 12 runs along Locust and Walnut streets.
- Via PATCO (From NJ): Take the High-Speed Line to the 15th/16th & Locust Street Station. From the exit, walk one block south to Spruce Street and you will see the Kimmel Center’s iconic glass rooftop on the left.
Where should I park?
Please visit the Kimmel Center website for directions to the nearest parking garage.
Is the venue accessible?
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is wheelchair-accessible from both its east (Broad Street) and north (Spruce Street) entrances. Entrances are at sidewalk level (no steps). Ramps and/or level floors enter every level of Marian Anderson Hall. A curb cutout on the corner of Broad Street and Spruce Street allows for access from the sidewalk. For additional accessibility information, click here.
I’m lost! How can I get help navigating the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts?
Head to the Visit Philadelphia Information Desk on the Plaza Level for directions, information about the day’s events, nearby restaurant recommendations and more.
You can also ask any member of the team wearing badges for assistance.
MEDIA, RECORDING & STREAMING
Will the TED Talks be recorded?
Yes, every talk delivered will be professionally captured as part of the official TED Democracy archive.
While the live experience is exclusive to our attendees, these world-changing ideas will be shared with a global audience on in the months following the event. As an attendee, you are part of the “live studio” energy that makes these recordings so powerful!
Will I be on camera?
By joining us, you are part of our live studio audience. While the cameras focus primarily on the speakers, you may appear in wide shots of the theater or in B-roll footage capturing the day’s energy.
Can I take photos or videos during the TED Talks?
While we're excited to share these ideas with the world, we want everyone to be present in the room. Please keep all phones and recording devices away at all times inside the theater. We recommend you bring a notebook and pen to take notes about your favorite ideas!
Can my friends watch a livestream?
Through a partnership with the American Library Association, we’re working with libraries across the nation to host TED Democracy LIVE at more than 65 libraries throughout the United States. While there is no public link for home viewing, your friends and family can join the conversation at a participating library. To see a complete list of participating libraries, click here.
