Your Complete Guide to the Chiefs‑Rams Preseason Showdown at Arrowhead

Kansas City, Mo. — The excitement is real. This Saturday, Arrowhead Stadium will open its gates for the Kansas City Chiefs’ first preseason game of the year, a face‑off with the Los Angeles Rams. Whether you’re a die‑hard Chiefs fan or just in it for the tailgate vibes, a few details can make the day run smoother.

Game time and timeline

The kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m., but the day’s schedule starts much earlier. Parking gates swing open at 10:30 a.m., giving you plenty of time to find a spot before the crowds swell. At 11:00 a.m., the Ford Tailgate District comes alive, and by 12:30 p.m., the CommunityAmerica Club Level gates will be ready for early birds. All main stadium entrances open at 1:00 p.m., just two hours before the whistle blows.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• 10:30 a.m. – Parking gates open
• 11:00 a.m. – Ford Tailgate District opens
• 12:30 p.m. – CommunityAmerica Club Level opens
• 1:00 p.m. – All stadium gates open
• 2:00 p.m. – Team warm‑ups
• 2:57 p.m. – Rams introduction
• 2:59 p.m. – Chiefs introduction
• 3:00 p.m. – National anthem
• 3:03 p.m. – Coin toss
• 3:05 p.m. – Kickoff

Tickets and parking

All tickets and parking passes are now mobile‑only. Pull them up on your phone and add them to your mobile wallet before you head out – it saves you a line at the gate. If you plan to drive, snag a parking pass in advance; the lot opens at 10:30 a.m. and fills up fast on game days.

Rideshare users, take note: the designated drop‑off and pick‑up zone is the Missouri Welcome Center, sandwiched between Gates 1 and 2 on Blue Ridge Cutoff. It’s a quick walk to the stadium, and you’ll avoid the traffic snarls that often form near the main entrances.

Weather watch

Mid‑90s temperatures are forecast for Saturday, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle (20 oz. or smaller, factory sealed) if you want to stay hydrated. Arrowhead will have water fountains scattered throughout the concourses, plus cooling stations on the first level of each spiral and in the upper‑level end zones.

Pre‑game entertainment

The national anthem will be performed by sisters Hailey and Kenzie Hutcheson, while the Miami County Sheriff’s Office presents the colors. The Ford Tailgate District, located in Lot M on the north side of the stadium near Lancer Lane, opens at 11:00 a.m. and offers free food trucks, drinks, tailgating games, and live music. This week’s lineup features DJ Lazer, emcee Spencer Davis, and performances by the Chiefs Rumble, Chiefs Cheerleaders, and Junior Chiefs Cheerleaders.

Kids can get a free Kingdom Kids poster, enjoy face painting, and even try an airbrush tattoo – perfect for keeping the little ones entertained while you soak up the atmosphere.

Charity spotlight

The preseason clash also doubles as the Chiefs Charity Game. This year’s beneficiary is Jackson County CASA, an organization that advocates for children who have endured abuse or neglect. Keep an eye out for signage and announcements during the broadcast – every cheer helps raise awareness.

Junior Chiefs Cheerleaders

More than 500 members of the Junior Chiefs Cheer and Flag crews will join the professional cheer squad for a halftime showcase. It’s a proud moment for the program and a great way to see the next generation of talent in action.

Cashless convenience

Arrowhead is fully cashless, so be sure you have a credit/debit card or a mobile payment method (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) ready for food, drinks, and merchandise. No need to hunt for an ATM once you’re inside.

With all this information in hand, you’re set to enjoy a fun‑filled Saturday at Arrowhead. Grab your seat, soak up the preseason excitement, and cheer on the Chiefs as they gear up for another championship‑ready season.