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How to Get Free Strictly Come Dancing Tickets – Hacks, Tips and Insider Secrets
Vicky Parry
10th Aug 2025
Love Strictly? Here’s how to bag free tickets, beat the rush, and maybe even waltz your way into the ballroom audience. But act fast — they go quicker than a 10 from Shirley!
Have you seen the Strictly Class of 2025 announcements? We are very excited to see Alex Kingston there. What do you all think so far? If you want to see some of this years stars in action read on to hear our hacks…
If you’re a die-hard fan of Strictly Come Dancing, getting free audience tickets is the ultimate golden glitterball. But they’re in high demand — so if you want a chance to see the magic live at Elstree Studios, you’ll need to know where to look, when to act, and which tricks boost your odds.
We’ve gathered the best hacks, tips, and urgent alerts so you don’t miss your chance to be in the Strictly audience for free. Let’s cha-cha-cha right into it…
Where to Get Free Strictly Tickets (and When!)
1. Official BBC Ticket Ballot (It’s FREE!)
Every year, the BBC releases free audience tickets through a public ballot. It’s hosted on BBC Shows and Tours, and it’s the only official way to apply for live recordings.
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️ What’s included? Tickets to the live Saturday night show and the Sunday results show (both filmed on Saturday).
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When to apply? Ballots usually open in early September for the upcoming series. Make sure you’re registered well in advance.
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⚡ TOP TIP: Register for a BBC Shows and Tours account now — don’t wait for the announcement!
Urgent reminder: The 2025 ballot is expected to open early September 2025. Set a calendar alert now or sign up for email notifications on the BBC site.
Secret Hacks to Boost Your Chances
2. Apply for Week 1 or the Later Shows
The first and last weeks are the most popular. But mid-season shows or the dress rehearsals (which still include a full performance!) can have better odds.
3. Apply for More Than One Date
You can request multiple dates in the ballot. Apply for every week you’re available — it massively increases your chances.
4. Dress to Impress (Really!)
If you’re lucky enough to get selected, be aware: the audience is filmed, so production loves glam looks. Sequins, sparkle, smart casual at the minimum — think red carpet, not supermarket.
Insider Tips and Backdoor Routes
5. Join ApplauseStore for Last-Minute Releases
Sometimes tickets are released via ApplauseStore, especially for Strictly spin-offs or special behind-the-scenes shows. These can be listed with almost no warning, so check back often.
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Sign up and opt in for email alerts.
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Refresh their “Coming Soon” page regularly during August–October.
6. Follow BBC Shows and Tours on Social Media
The BBC sometimes drops last-minute ticket releases or reminders via X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram. Follow their official pages and turn on notifications so you’re first to know.
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Search:
@BBCShowsTours
Bonus Freebies for Strictly Fans
7. Apply for It Takes Two Tickets
The Strictly: It Takes Two spin-off also offers free audience tickets — and they’re easier to get than main show tickets!
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Hosted at a different location (often London)
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Fun, relaxed, behind-the-scenes vibe
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Tickets via BBC Shows and Tours and sometimes ApplauseStore
8. Studio Tours & Behind-the-Scenes Experiences
Keep an eye on BBC studio experiences that occasionally run seasonal behind-the-scenes tours or special events for Strictly fans. They’re rare but often free or low-cost if you catch them early.
Urgent Checklist: How to Be Strictly Ready
✅ Create a BBC Shows and Tours account now
✅ Sign up for ApplauseStore alerts
✅ Follow @BBCShowsTours on social media
✅ Set a reminder for early September 2025
✅ Prepare a glam outfit – seriously!
✅ Be flexible with dates and location
✅ Get your friends to apply too (double the chances!)
Final Tip: Don’t Pay – Strictly Tickets Are Always Free
If you see anyone trying to sell Strictly Come Dancing tickets online — it’s a scam. Tickets are always completely free. Don’t hand over any money. Stick to the trusted routes above and you’ll be glitterball-ready in no time.
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