Monster Jam trucks invade Georgia Dome this weekend
Here are some tips for enjoying the really big show
For the Journal-Constitution
Friday, January 09, 2009
The phenomenon that is Monster Jam — a bad-to-the-bone monster truck racing event starring loud, proud gargantuan machines — will be rocking the Georgia Dome on Jan. 10.
Monster Jam
Fans can get up close with their favorite monster trucks, like El Toro Loco, at the Georgia Dome on Saturday.
Monster Jam 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10. Georgia Dome, One Georgia Dome Drive, Atlanta. $10-$35; Total Access Special $200. 404-249-6400.
Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com
Getting the most truck for the buck requires a little more than just grabbing a ticket and plopping into a seat. Here’s a road map of suggestions on how to make the most out of the experience.
Grab some grub
Make it a true night on the town with a pre-show dinner. The flagship Ted’s Montana Grill (133 Luckie St., Atlanta) is just a short walk away. The cowboy-themed decor sort of jibes with the wild and woolly rumblings taking place at the dome. Nearby CNN Center has its own food court with quickie options, too. And the Georgia Dome is stocked with concessions ranging from barbecue to pizza.
Pre-show pit party
In-the-know fans arrive early to step on the track, meet the drivers and get up close and personal with the 10,000-pound stars of the show during the Built Ford Tough Party in the Pits from 2 to 5 p.m. This requires a pit pass in addition to a regular ticket. Free pit passes can be snagged at participating Atlanta area Metro PCS locations. Or guests can buy them for $5 each at the Georgia Dome box office from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the day of the show.
After the Pit Party, pre-show entertainment and qualifying runs take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The opening ceremonies kick off at 7 p.m., and the racing begins at 7:30 p.m.
Protect the ears
Monster trucks are 1,450-horsepower behemoths, so tender ears should be protected. Pick up an ear protector headset at stores like Napa Auto Parts ($13.09 each). Ear plugs cost $2 inside the Dome.
Capture the moment
Video cameras aren’t allowed, but regular cameras are a must. Pit Party photo ops alone include a shot next to a 10-foot-tall monster truck tire.
