Given Friday night's weather, the Party for Cause kick-off event for the 50th Academy of Country Music Awards at Globe Life Park in Arlington could have gone more smoothly. Being told to take cover when the show is supposed to begin isn't the most welcoming way to start the weekend. But persistent fans who stuck around were rewarded -- even if only with one song by each superstar country duet slated to play.
The forecast for Saturday bodes slightly better, with scattered storms expected in the evening. If you're making to make the trek to the ballpark for round two of Party for a Cause, take the following tips with you.
Click to see pictures of Party For the Cause and the ACM red carpet.
Expect to wait in line
Whether it's for food or to take your seat, expect congestion. Daytime concerts outside Globe Life Park reportedly suffered from too many bodies in the grounds. Fans inside the ballpark also felt the pain -- many said they were waiting for upwards of an hour in line to reach their seats. (This before ballpark officials told attendees to retreat to the main concourse to wait out the storm.)
Parking ain't cheap
For anyone who's attended a Texas Rangers or Dallas Cowboys game in the last couple seasons, this is a given. From what I saw Friday night, parking lots closest to the ballpark priced around $30 and those further out ran for $20. The good news: there were ample pedicabs roaming the area and tailgating groups didn't hesitate to set up shop. Just like a normal game day.
The Rangers' crazy eats are available for purchase
Speaking of normal game days, locals and tourists alike have access to a range of Rangers novelties. The bacon-only stand was in full swing Friday night, as was the craft beer booth. We spotted three-foot Boomsticks and waffle fries covered in brisket -- like life gets any better.
Party for a Cause isn't just a concert, it's a fashion statement
The honky tonkin' type at the ACMs doesn't skimp when it comes to kicks. So dust off your slickest boots, they'll be in good company.
You'll meet people from across North America who traveled in for the weekend and they'll be incredibly kind
An estimated 70 percent of country music fans in town for the ACM festivities aren't from Texas, but the Southern hospitality was on point Friday night. Before the gates opened (late), parts of Globe Life Park were nearly impassible as crowds waited in line to be let into their seats. Then as soon as lines began moving, Party for Cause attendees were ushered back to the main concourse and the stadium again swelled with people. Funny enough, no one seemed bothered by it. When I expected griping and complaining, I experienced nothing but patience, and the 20-minute intermissions between single song performances made it easy to meet new friends.
Bonus: I know where to find craft beer
The Brewhouse, which has 12 draft taps, is located in section 17. You're welcome.
