Monster Jam is an exciting monster truck event that features loud, high-flying stunts and intense racing competitions. Before attending your first Monster Jam, there are some key things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best experience possible. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know, from what to expect at the show, tips for buying tickets, how to prepare for the event, and a rundown of the top trucks and drivers to look out for. Whether you are a die-hard monster truck fan or just looking for a thrilling new family activity, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to have an awesome time at Monster Jam.
What to Expect at Monster Jam
Monster Jam events pack tons of high-octane entertainment into a single show. Here’s a look at everything that goes down at a typical Monster Jam:
Truck Lineup: Each Monster Jam features different monster trucks in the lineup, usually around 8-12 trucks total. Top trucks include fan favorites like Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction, El Toro Loco, Monster Mutt, Megalodon, Soldier Fortune, Zombie, and EarthShaker. The trucks vary from event to event.
Pit Party: Arrive early for the pre-show Pit Party, where you can get up close to the trucks and meet the drivers before the show. This is a great time to snap photos and see the insane size of these 12,000 pound beasts in person.
Opening Ceremony: The show kicks off with a high-energy opening ceremony as all the competing trucks roar into the arena in a parade lap, revving their engines and getting the crowd pumped up.
Racing: The monster trucks line up for head-to-head drag racing over jumps as they rip around the dirt track and aim to cross the finish line first. Racing is all about speed and power.
Donuts & Wheelies: Individual freestyle segments let each driver show off their skills as they spin the massive tires in raging circular donuts that fling dirt into the crowd, and pop vertical wheelies holding the truck up on its rear wheels.
Freestyle: The main attraction! For freestyle, each truck gets 2-3 minutes on an open floor strewn with jumps and obstacles to pull off their biggest, wildest tricks and stunts as they please. Expect epic two-wheel skills, crushing car stacks, and huge backflips off ramps to bring the crowd to their feet.
Encore: To close the show, all the trucks and drivers come back out for a final parade lap and the chance to interact with fans. This is when you’ll see epic donut train formations.
In between competition segments are also stunt acts like motocross riders jumping through the air and precision drivers in the Monster Jam Speedsters quad bikes. With non-stop action, Monster Jam offers a little something for every level of thrill seeker.
What to Wear
Since Monster Jam is held in large indoor arenas, be prepared for the potential to be cold. It’s smart to dress in layers and have hats and gloves handy. Seats further away from the action will feel chillier. Make sure to wear closed toe shoes since the trucks kick up a lot of dirt and debris into the front rows. For those wanting to fully embrace the Monster Jam spirit, feel free to sport your favorite drivers’ gear or even get decked out in costume!
Arriving Early
Doors typically open 1-2 hours before showtime for the pre-show Pit Party. To make the most of this exclusive access, you’ll want to arrive as early as possible once gates open. This ensures you have plenty of time to wander the pits, snap pics, and try to meet drivers before the lines get too long. The trucks are on display to check out up close, but keep in mind you cannot climb aboard. After getting your fill of the pits, grab some snacks and merch and head to your seats 15 minutes before showtime as the lights start to dim for the opening ceremony.
Buying Monster Jam Tickets
Purchasing your Monster Jam tickets early is highly recommended as popular shows can sell out quickly. Here are some tips for securing the best seats at the best prices:
Get Tickets Early: As soon as tickets go on sale, usually a few months in advance of the event, jump on getting yours before inventory disappears.
Buy Directly: You’ll typically find the lowest prices and best selection going directly through the official Monster Jam website instead of third-party resellers. Sign up for their fan club for access to presales.
Join the Pre-Sale List: Provide your contact info on the Monster Jam website to get exclusive pre-sale ticket access before the general public. Presale ticket releases are the best way to get prime seats.
Compare Prices: Ticket prices can vary for the same seating section depending on the city and venue. Be sure to check back periodically for deal alerts.
Consider VIP: Spend a little extra for the VIP experience with reserved premium floor seats, Pit Party access, and more. This takes the event to the next level.
Buy in Bulk: For large groups and families, buying tickets together in bulk can sometimes lead to group discounts.
Avoid purchasing tickets through unofficial resale sites where fraud and price gouging are risks. Go through reputable sellers for a smooth, secure transaction. The excitement of scoring tickets will start building your anticipation for the epic event ahead!
Where to Sit
Section | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Floor Seats | Close to the action | More expensive, dirt/debris |
Lower Bowl | Great views | Limited interaction with trucks |
Upper Level | More affordable, covered from dirt | Farther from action, obstructed views |
Preparing for Monster Jam
To make sure your Monster Jam experience goes smoothly from start to finish, keep these tips in mind:
Check the Weather: Many stadiums are open-air, so be prepared for elements like rain or snow that could impact the show. Make sure to dress appropriately for conditions.
Pack Essentials: Bring earplugs to protect your ears from loud revving engines (especially for kids). Also pack closed-toe shows, jackets, phone chargers, and anything else you may need.
Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate traffic, parking, lines through security, and find your seats. Missing part of the show would be disappointing.
Bring Cash: While cards are accepted, having cash on hand ensures you can buy merchandise, snacks, and souvenirs from the many vendors. ATMs have long lines.
Use the Restroom: Use the restroom before the show starts. Once the trucks start their engines, you won’t want to leave and miss any of the action.
Don’t Bring Bags: Most venues restrict bag size and prohibit backpacks, so leave large bags at home when possible. Carry items in clear plastic bags.
Watch Your Step: The Pit Party takes place on uneven ground near the trucks, so wear sensible footwear and watch your footing in these areas.
Eat Beforehand: While you can purchase food at the event, options are limited and expensive. Eat a good meal before arriving.
Following these tips will allow you to sit back, relax, and lose yourself in the breathtaking spectacle of Monster Jam!
Top Monster Trucks & Drivers
The talented drivers behind the wheel are what really makes Monster Jam a must-see event. Here are some of the top trucks and drivers to keep an eye out for:
Grave Digger – Adam Anderson: The legendary black and green wrecking machine Grave Digger is the most well-known name in monster trucks. Watch for gravity-defying backflips off the jumps.
Max-D – Neil Elliott: Known for its spectacular airs and wild saves, Max-D is a fan favorite driven by the masterful Neil Elliott.
El Toro Loco – Mark List: Watch out for El Toro Loco’s massive horns and see daredevil Mark List get big air with cyclone crashes.
Monster Mutt – Candice Jolly: A fierce canine truck strapped with weight to allow bigger air, watch for Candice Jolly to catch epic airtime.
Megalodon – Austin Minton: Inspired by the prehistoric shark, this truck is designed for maximum jaw-dropping stunts.
Zombie – Bari Musawwir: Driven by rising star Bari Musawwir, Zombie provides a wild ride with its creepy undead styling.
Soldier Fortune – Kayla Blood: Young gun Kayla Blood pilots this patriotic truck to adrenaline-pumping jumps.
EarthShaker – Tristan England: The shark-faced EarthShaker rumbles the ground with its heavy 10,000 lb body in flight.
Newer drivers are also making names for themselves in the sport and rookies continue to push boundaries. With so many talented competitors, the only sure bets are nonstop excitement and all-out entertainment at a Monster Jam event!
Conclusion
Monster Jam takes motorsports to the extreme with its souped-up monster truck behemoths battling it out for racing supremacy and wowing crowds with gravity-defying stunts. This guide covers everything from knowing what to expect at the show, tips for buying tickets, how to prepare for your visit, and the top trucks and drivers bringing the excitement. With massive mechanical beasts revving their engines and adrenaline levels through the roof, Monster Jam offers an incredible experience for fans of all ages. Come ready to feel the action as these 12,000 pound trucks fly high and make the ground shake!