How to Manage Queues at Funfairs

When hosting an event or managing a popular funfair ride, efficient queue management is paramount to ensure attendee satisfaction and maintain a smooth flow of operations. A prolonged or disorganised queue can lead to disgruntlement and mar an otherwise fun day.

Thanks to We Are Tricycle's vast experience in event management, you're in safe hands when you're with us. Here are our top tips for effective queue management:

• If possible, get an estimate of the number of attendees. This will enable you to design your queuing system to handle the projected volume.
• Identify periods when queues might become longer, such as lunchtime or just after doors open, and plan extra resources accordingly.
• Clear, visible signage is pivotal. Indicate the start of the queue, estimated waiting times, and any essential instructions to keep guests informed and reduce uncertainty.
• Rope barriers, cones, crowd barrier fences and retractable belt stands can help delineate the queuing space and guide attendees in the desired direction.
• Having staff members guide and inform the queue can be reassuring for attendees. They can answer queries, manage crowd behaviour, and ensure the queue moves systematically.
• Consider entertaining attendees while they wait. This could be through street performers, screens displaying entertaining content, or even trivia about the funfair ride they're queuing for. A distracted guest perceives a reduced waiting time.
• Digital queue management systems allow guests to join a virtual queue and be alerted when their turn approaches. This frees them to enjoy other aspects of the event until they're summoned.
• For fairground rides and attractions with high demand, consider having multiple service points to distribute the crowd. For instance, multiple ticket counters or entrance gates could work on certain rides.
• Consider offering a priority pass or fast track option for those willing to pay a premium or for special guests. This can also help in crowd differentiation and management.
• Constantly observe the efficiency of your queuing system. If a bottleneck appears, be ready to adapt and make on-the-spot changes.
• Always keep your guests informed. If there are unforeseen delays or changes, use loudspeakers, digital displays, or queue marshals to update attendees.

Effective queue management is both an art and a science, striking a balance between logistical planning and understanding human behaviour. With the right strategies, queues can be not just manageable but also a positive aspect of the visitor experience. By implementing these strategies, you ensure that attendees spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the fun.

With We Are Tricycle by your side, you can enjoy effortless funfairs and fairgrounds wherever you want, anywhere in the UK! Contact us to book your spot.