7 Smart Ways to Use Wristbands at Events

1/17/2025

Wristbands are one of the most effective tools event organizers can use to manage access, streamline check-in, improve security, and even support branding or giveaways. Whether you’re planning a school fundraiser, music festival, or multi-day conference, the right wristband can help your event run more smoothly from start to finish.

1. Admission and Re-entry

Tyvek wristbands are a popular choice for general admission. They’re lightweight, water-resistant, and tamper-proof, making them ideal for single-day events or venues with re-entry policies. Once secured at the gate, they let attendees move freely without needing to show tickets or hand stamps.

2. Access Control and Security

For events with tiered access—like backstage areas, VIP lounges, or 21+ zones—vinyl and cloth wristbands are excellent options. Vinyl wristbands are extremely durable (they can last on someone’s wrist for weeks!) and available in multiple colors for quick visual sorting. Cloth wristbands offer a premium look and feel, making them ideal for designating VIPs or guests with access privileges.

3. Branding and Sponsor Visibility

Wristbands can serve as walking ads when printed with your event logo or sponsor messaging. Silicone wristbands in particular are ideal for long-term wear and branding—they’re comfortable, reusable, and often kept as keepsakes. For multi-day events or conferences, custom vinyl or plastic wristbands also work well as branded credentials that last.

4. Promotional Discounts

Collaborate with local businesses or vendors to offer exclusive perks. For example, a wristband shown at a partner restaurant could unlock a discount for attendees. Tyvek or plastic wristbands printed with a promo message are easy to implement and hard to lose—guests wear their discount the whole time.

5. Raffles and Door Prizes

If you’re running a door prize or raffle as part of your event, stubbed wristbands are a great option. These wristbands include a tear-off stub that can be collected upon entry or used as a raffle ticket—no separate paper tickets required. It’s a secure, convenient solution that keeps things streamlined for both organizers and guests.

6. Group Identification

Color-coded Tyvek wristbands are excellent for sorting guests into groups—perfect for school trips, team-building events, or volunteer coordination. A quick glance makes it easy for staff to guide attendees or identify participants.

7. Event Keepsakes

Silicone wristbands are a popular souvenir at concerts, festivals, and charity events. With a cool design, slogan, or commemorative date, they give guests a tangible reminder of the experience—and they often continue promoting your cause long after the event ends.

Final Thoughts

No matter the size or type of event you’re organizing, wristbands offer a flexible, efficient solution for access control, branding, and guest engagement. From budget-friendly Tyvek for single-day admission to durable vinyl and cloth wristbands for VIP access, silicone wristbands for long-term branding, and stubbed wristbands for raffles—there’s a type to fit every need. Explore custom wristbands to find the right fit for your event.