Despite Downturn, Pricey Events Still Selling Out

Hirshhorn After Hours sold out a few days in advance -- even though the tickets cost $6 more than the November After Hours, shown here. (Courtesy of Colin S. Johnson)

We keep hearing about people cutting back, spending less and DIYing given the current economic climate, but consider this weekend's event calendar for a moment: A slew of this weekend's high-profile and pricey charity events no longer have tickets available. Artini ($100-$125), Taste of the Nation ($85-$150) and Fashion for Paws ($75-$150) have all either sold out or are just on the verge. Every ticket for this weekend's Hirshhorn After Hours was snatched up days before the event, even though the price has climbed to $18 this time, compared to $10 or $12 at previous events.

So much for the recession.

Concerts at the 9:30 club are an even more confounding case. Neko Case sold out a two-night stand at the club next month. Lady GaGa (miraculously) did the same. You can't get tickets to see Katy Perry, Lily Allen or Chris Cornell, either. On the other hand, the club is slashing prices on less popular shows. This week, it's offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal for people who buy tickets at the box office to the Wednesday-through-Saturday concerts. You can still snag 2-for-1 admission to Primal Scream and Honor by August, tonight and tomorrow, respectively.

So, let us know, readers. Are you actually spending less these days, or just cutting back in small ways so you can splurge on some of the more expensive affairs? How's the current economic downturn affecting your (night)life?

-- Julia