Abstract: Techniques are described for allocating and distributing tickets to an event at a venue. The tickets are distributed in a multi-step process in which first pre-issue tickets are allocated and distributed. Expected attendance for an event is calculated and pre-issue tickets are allocated and distributed based on the expected attendance. Seats are assigned at a later time when the user enters the venue or checks in for the event. When a user's ticket is part of a group of tickets, seats are assigned for the entire group rather than merely assigning a ticket for the user.