BY MELISSA RUGGIERI/AJC Music Scene
For most sports fans, the College Football Playoff National Championship is all about what happens between the goal posts.
But plenty of pigskin enthusiasts and visitors will appreciate the three days of free concerts in downtown Atlanta to complement the game.
Jason Derulo, The Chainsmokers and Darius Rucker headline the trio of shows during AT&T Playoff Playlist Live!, which will take place Saturday through Monday at Centennial Olympic Park. Also on the bill are Charlie Puth, Lizzo, Bebe Rexha, Spencer Ludwig and Brett Young. Local DJs will be on site to entertain in between the musical acts.
Gates will open at 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Jan. 6-7 and at noon Monday on Jan. 8.
Those who can't attend but want to check out the concerts can watch a livestream of the performances at att.net/attplayoffplaylist.
As well, on Monday, the ESPN Watch Party and Halftime Show – which will feature a nine-minute performance by Grammy-nominated rapper Kendrick Lamar – will take place in the park.
Credit: Melissa Ruggieri
Credit: Melissa Ruggieri
Here are some tips if you plan to attend:
The lineup:
Saturday: Jason Derulo, Charlie Puth and Lizzo.
Sunday: The Chainsmokers, Bebe Rexha and Spencer Ludwig.
Monday: Darius Rucker and Brett Young; Kendrick Lamar Halftime Show
How to access the park: Entrances will be located off of Marietta Street and Centennial Olympic Park Drive.
Security: A clear bag policy will be enforced at all official venues, including Centennial Olympic Park for AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! and the ESPN Watch Party and Halftime Show. That means bags must be clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12." Other options are a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar) and small clutch bags, no larger than 4.5 x 6.5, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bag options.
Tickets: The shows are free, and nothing is needed for entry. But it is suggested that patrons be prepared for security checks to ensure the entry process goes quickly.
Other no-no's: Animals (service animals excepted); chairs, stools or other seating devices; outside food or beverages; drones; explosives; large umbrellas; noisemaking devices; knives and other weapons; professional cameras or recording devices; signs that obstruct guests' view; projectiles, including inflated balls and Frisbees.
Transportation: Parking is available in the lots surrounding the stadium and Philips Arena, but as usual, MARTA is suggested. MARTA riders can take the West Line to the Philips Arena/Dome/GWCC Station, or take the North Line to Peachtree Center, and follow the signs to Centennial Olympic Park. Those who opt for a rideshare service will find drop-off and pick-up locations marked near the park, Philips Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium (on game-day only).
For more information, visit collegefootballplayoff.com.
RELATED
About the Author
