Timeline for Chiefs-Bengals AFC Championship Game
The Kansas City Chiefs are set to host the Cincinnati Bengals this Sunday, Jan. 29, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium for the AFC Championship Game.
Below you’ll find important fan information, including a look at the team’s timeline ahead of kickoff.
Parking & Traffic
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Info on parking & traffic via Chiefs:
Parking lots for Sunday’s game open at 1 p.m. All parking passes must be purchased in advance at www.chiefs.com/stadium/parking/ as payments will not be accepted at the parking tollgates. Fans should access all tickets and passes through www.mychiefsaccount.com or the Chiefs Mobile app prior to arrival. Tickets and parking passes are mobile only and fans are encouraged to save to their mobile wallet for easy access. Fans can track traffic and construction through the KC Scout camera network at www.kcscout.com/ or can get real-time traffic updates on the WAZE app. Fans are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive early.
Safety & Security
AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann
Info on safety & security via Chiefs:
The NFL’s clear bag policy is in place for all events at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Fans can visit www.chiefs.com/stadium/clearbag for important information on the clear bag policy and a complete list of permitted and prohibited items. Although the clear bag policy is in place, guests are encouraged to avoid bringing a bag into the stadium, if at all possible, to expedite their entry process. Fans can visit www.chiefs.com/stadium/prohibitedpermitteditems for a complete list of permitted and prohibited items.
Guests will experience a more seamless entry through the new CEIA OPENGATE security screening technology at all stadium entry gates this season. As guests approach the stadium, they should keep items in their pockets and/or clear bags as they pass through the new advanced screening devices while following the direction of security personnel. All fans should keep moving through the screening gates at a normal pace, as there is no need to wait for the person in front or to stop unless otherwise directed.
If guests have questions or need assistance, including with accessible services, they can contact Fan Experience at (816) 920-4237 or by email at fanexperience@chiefs.com. Beginning at 11:30 a.m. on event day, guests can also text (816) 920-4237 with location and issue.
Freezing temperatures & weather
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Frigid temperatures are expected and the Chiefs have released a number of tips on ways to stay warm. Find a full write-up here.
1:00 p.m. – Parking Gates Open
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Fans began lining up 19 hours prior to the AFC divisional round kickoff. Rest assured they’ll be out there quite early again. If the team chooses to open the gates earlier based on traffic, it’s within their prerogative to do so. Parking gates will open no later than 1:00 p.m. for fans who are set to tailgate at Arrowhead Stadium.
1:30 p.m. – Ford Tailgate District Opens
AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann
Info on the Ford Tailgate District via the Chiefs:
The Ford Tailgate District, located in Lot M on the north side of the stadium closest to Lancer Lane, is a free space for all fans to enjoy drink specials, food trucks, tailgating games and live entertainment leading up to kickoff. The Ford Tailgate District will open at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday and will feature performances by DJ Lazer and Big Time Grain Co.
3:00 p.m. – CommunityAmerica Club Level Gates Open
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
This area is typically open 2.5 hours before kickoff and 30 minutes prior to all stadium gates opening. It’s also open an hour after the game.
3:30 p.m. – All GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium Gates Open
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All fans will be permitted entry into Arrowhead Stadium at this time.
4:30 p.m. – Team Warm-Ups Begin
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If you want to get a look at Patrick Mahomes and his ankle ahead of the game, this is the time you’ll need to be inside the stadium to do so.
5:29 p.m. – Bengals Team Introduction
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Your opportunity to welcome Joe Burrow and company to “Burrowhead” awaits. I think it will be “Boorrowhead.”
5:31 p.m. – Chiefs Team Introduction
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Offense or defense? Who is getting the intros on Sunday?
5:35 p.m. – National Anthem
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You do not want to miss United States Navy Veteran Generald Wilson singing the national anthem on Sunday.
5:38 p.m. – Coin Toss
AP Photo/Jack Dempsey
You know the drill, if the Chiefs win the toss, they’ll defer choice.
5:40 p.m. – Kickoff
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Game time, Chiefs Kingdom.
