AITAH for Missing My Niece’s Birthday to Go to a Concert I Booked Months Ago?
Hey everyone, I need some honest opinions here. I’m torn between feeling guilty and justified, and I’d love to hear your take. Here’s the situation: I missed my niece’s 8th birthday party because I had tickets to a concert I’d booked months in advance. Now, my sister is furious, and my family is split. So, AITAH?
The Concert Commitment
Back in January, my favorite band announced their tour, and I immediately bought tickets. This wasn’t just any concert—it was a bucket-list experience, and I’d been waiting years for them to come to my city. The tickets were expensive, non-refundable, and I even booked time off work. At the time, I had no idea it would clash with a family event.
The Birthday Surprise
Fast-forward to last month, my sister announced my niece’s birthday party—scheduled for the exact same day as the concert. She said it was the only weekend that worked for their venue. I explained my conflict, but she brushed it off, saying, “Family comes first, you can resell the tickets.” I tried to compromise—offering to celebrate with my niece the day before—but my sister insisted the party was non-negotiable.
Family Backlash
When I stood firm on going to the concert, all hell broke loose. My sister called me selfish, and my parents said I was setting a bad example for my niece. Even my brother-in-law chimed in, saying, “Kids only turn eight once.” But here’s the thing: I adore my niece. I’m usually the fun aunt who never misses a school play or soccer game. This felt like a one-time exception.
My Justification
I don’t think I’m entirely in the wrong here. I’d committed to the concert first, and it wasn’t like I blew off the party for something trivial. Plus, I made it up to my niece with a special day out (we went to a theme park, her favorite). But my family insists that “being there matters more.” Should I have canceled my plans last-minute?
The Aftermath
The concert was incredible—one of the best nights of my life—but the guilt is lingering. My sister is giving me the cold shoulder, and my niece asked why I wasn’t at her party. I explained, but I worry she’ll remember this. Was it worth it? Part of me says yes, but part of me wonders if I messed up.
Where Do I Stand?
I’m stuck between two perspectives: keeping commitments (the concert) vs. family obligations (the party). Maybe I could’ve handled it better, but was I really the AH? I’d love your honest take—am I being selfish, or was this a fair choice?
Your Verdict?
So, Reddit, AITAH? Should I apologize and promise never to miss a family event again? Or was this a reasonable exception? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’m ready for the judgment!
P.S. If you’ve been in a similar situation, how did you handle it?
