Channel 933’s Summer Kickoff Concert presented by SDCCU.com is San Diego’s official kickoff to summer! This year’s lineup is stacked, and will feature performances from Lauv, In Real Life, Troye Sivan, Meghan Trainor, Iggy Azalea, Miguel, Ne-Yo, and The Chainsmokers. Consider this the party of the year, and one you won’t want to miss out on!
Whether you’re a SKOC regular just like me, or this is your first time going to the show, this guide will give you all the information you need to make sure you have the best night ever! You’ll find venue policies, tips on how to snag the best seats possible, a list of all the current ticket and meet & greet giveaways (and YES, the list is constantly updated!), tips on how to win your way in, general info about the show, and so much more. This is YOUR ultimate Summer Kickoff resource!
If you’re ready to become a Summer Kickoff expert, keep reading!
DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this post is public domain. Most of it is built up on prior knowledge, as I am a regular to the show. The information given in this post may change at any time, and I will do my very best to update it as soon as possible in order to ensure accuracy. Have fun!
VENUE INFO
Q: Where is the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert being held?
A: Summer Kickoff will be taking place at Mattress Firm Amphitheatre, which is located at 2050 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Q: When is the show, and what time does it start?
A: This year’s show will take place on Friday, May 11 at 6PM. The show will start at 6PM sharp!
Q: What times do the doors open?
A: 4PM.
Q: What time does the show end?
A: Summer Kickoff usually ends anywhere between 11-11:45PM.
Q: Where is Mattress Firm Amphitheatre?
A: Mattress Firm Amphitheatre is located in south Chula Vista off Main Street, just a few minutes from the 805 freeway. If you need directions, just copy and paste the address provided above into Google Maps.
Q: How much does the parking cost?
A: Parking is FREE in the dirt lots surrounding the venue. They are just a few footsteps away from the venue, and yes, they are safe! Preferred parking in a paved lot right in front of the entry gates is available as well for a fee.
Q: When I bought my ticket, it said “parking included”. What does that mean?
A: You will be able to park in the dirt lots (lots A, C, E, F, G) for free. However, if you purchased an orchestra ticket (not from resale) within the first 10 rows (rows A-K), preferred parking in lot B will be included in your ticket for free.
Q: I bought parking for like $20 online. Where would I park?
A: If you bought preferred parking, you’ll park in lot B.
Check out the map below to see where all the parking lots are located, and where you can get dropped off/picked up if you use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to and from the venue!
Q: How bad is the traffic?
A: Expect very heavy traffic going to and coming from the venue. I always recommend arriving to the venue prior to the doors opening so you have ample time to find a close parking spot, get right into the venue, and enjoy the entire show! Heritage Road, which is the main road that will lead you to the venue, is very narrow, and thousands of other people are trying to get to the show. You get the picture!
Q: Is there a quicker way to get to the venue?
A: Use Google Maps to find out how to take the 905 or Otay Mesa Rd to and from the venue. (If you’ve never been in the area, don’t worry – you won’t end up in Mexico!)
Q: Can I get there by using public transportation? Like the bus and stuff.
A:Unfortunately, there’s no bus stops nearby 🙁
Q: Can I bring my own food and water into the venue?
A: You can bring water into the venue, as long as it is in a factory sealed bottle, and it’s a normal sized bottle. If it’s halfway full because you’ve been drinking it in line, you will likely be asked by security to finish it or throw it out before entering the venue. As for food, you can bring food in a clear, 1-gallon ziplock bag. Food is also available for purchase inside the venue, and there are tons of delicious options!
Q: Am I allowed to bring a purse? I know that some venues banned purses.
A: Bring your purse! You are welcome to bring purses/small backpacks. Be ready to have them checked by security before entering the venue.
Q: I have a backpack that I want to bring, but I’m not sure if it’s small enough.
A: At the end of this post, you will find my email. Feel free to send me a photo of your bag, and I’ll let you know if it’s an acceptable size. As a rule of thumb, if it’s larger than the length of a ruler, it may get turned away.
Q: Can I bring weapons?
A: NO.
Q: What’s the camera policy? I want to make sure I can bring in my Polaroid.
A: Cameras with detachable lenses are not permitted, as well as Go Pros, iPads, and camcorders. You CAN bring in instant cameras.
Q: Can I bring a poster?
A: Venue policy states that you will NOT be able to bring in signs larger than 8 1/2” X 11” (the size of a regular sheet of paper). However, security will have the final say of what can come inside the venue.
Q: If it rains, can I bring an umbrella?
A: In the event that it rains, umbrellas will not be permitted inside the venue. The show will go on, rain or shine.
BUYING TICKETS
First things first, let’s take a look at the seating chart for the show.
Q: How much are the tickets?
A: Ticket prices vary depending on where you’d like to sit! The cheapest tickets will be located in the lawn section. This is a large, grassy general admission area in the back of the venue, and are $25 each. If you select “933 Special Lawn Offer”, you’ll get these for only $14.33. Next up, there’s seats in the 300’s sections for $29.33. Seats in the 200’s sections range between $29.33 and $85.00. 100’s section seats range between $65.00 and $109.95 . Orchestra seats (aka “floor seats”) range between $109.95 and $431.15. Additional fees may apply to all ticket prices.
Q: Which are the best seats?
A: The closest seats are located in the orchestra sections (they show up as “front” on the seating chart). Personally I love sitting here every year, but one great thing to know about the venue is that there’s no such thing as bad seats! You’ll have a clear view of all the action no matter where you choose to sit.
Q: Are there big screens for people in the back to see?
A: Yes! There are screens on both sides of the stage 🙂 I also encourage people to bring binoculars if they’d like to see the artist’s faces.
Q: Will there be seat upgrades?
A: If seat upgrades are available, you will be able to purchase them through the Live Nation App the morning of the show.
Q: What about the tickets that say “Ultimate Concert Experience”. Why are those more expensive? Do they come with meet and greet?
A: Ultimate Concert Experience tickets include access to the venue’s VIP lounge, which features a cash bar and food. They also include premium parking. Since these are additional perks, they are a little more expensive than regular tickets. Unfortunately, these do not come with meet and greet access.
Q: What are the platinum tickets? And omg, why are they so expensive?
>A: Platinum tickets are tickets that are marked up based on demand. There are usually some of the best seats in the house. They do NOT include access to the VIP lounge, meet and greets, or any extra perks.
Q: What’s the fast lane pass upgrade?
A: If you have lawn, the fast lane pass can come in handy! If you have a fast lane pass, you’ll be one of the first to enter the venue when the doors open. You will be placed in a shorter line at the main gate.
Q: Do box seats come with meet and greets?
A: No. Venue VIP has nothing to do with the radio station.
Q: I’m short. Will I be able to see if I get floor seats?
A: YUP!
Q: Where will you be sitting Chels?
A: Front row in the Orchestra!
ABOUT THE SHOW
Q: What time does the show start?
A: 6pm SHARP! Don’t get stuck in traffic.
Q: What are the set times?
A: Set times will likely not be released to the public. However, the artists usually perform in the order that they appear on the lineup poster, with the ones at the bottom (Lauv) going first. In Real Life will likely be the second act on stage, and that’ll be around 6:15 or 6:20! Expect The Chainsmokers to close out the show.
Q: How long does the show last?
A: Expect the show to end anytime after 11PM.
Q: How long are the set times?
A: The set times will vary per artists. Usually, artists that take the stage earlier in the evening (this would be Lauv, In Real Life and Troye) will have shorter set times and perform anywhere between 2-4 songs. Headliners will have longer sets.
Q: So what time are In Real Life going on stage?
A: If you are in the venue by 6, you will be a-ok! My biggest tip is to PLEASE plan on arriving early. The doors will open at 4PM, and there’s plenty to see and do before the show starts!
WINNING TICKETS
Q: Chels, how can I win tickets to the show?
A: Great question! If you keep reading, I will be providing you with a list of EVERY SINGLE WAY you can win your way into this year’s Summer Kickoff Concert!
Q: Do I have to be from San Diego to win tickets?
A: For on-air contests, you must be a legal resident of San Diego County. You must also be 18+.
Q: Why do I have to be 18+ for on-air contests?
A: By law, the radio station cannot collect the info of minors over the air.
Q: What about online contests? Do I have to live in San Diego to win?
A: For online contests, as long as you live anywhere within the US, you should be fine. However, you should always read the rules for each contest to be sure!
A: Usually, 16+. As I said, you’ll always want to check the rules of the contest you’re entering so you can get the full terms and conditions.
Q: Do I really need an iHeartRadio account to enter the online contests?
A: First of all, why wouldn’t you have an iHeartRadio account?! It’s free to sign up, only takes a few seconds, and it’s so worth it. Second, you can sign up for contests using Facebook, but signing up using your iHeartRadio account is much easier!
Q: If a contest says I have to be 18+ to win, do I really have to be 18+?
A: Yep. However, if you’re a minor, you can always put down your legal guardian’s info or the info of an older relative that you live with! When I was a minor, I’d register my mom for contests. When I (more like we) won, she’d be the one that would claim the prize.
Q: Do I just keep listening to the radio or what?
A: Yes boo. Stay listening to Channel 933.
Q: What’s 933’s phone number?
A: (858) 570-1933.
Q: I heard that you have a better chance of winning contests if you listen on a regular radio vs on the iHeartRadio app. Is that true?
A: The stream on the iHeartRadio app can be delayed up to a few minutes, so I always recommend listening on a regular radio (car radio, your stereo at home, etc) instead of the app when you’re trying super hard to win something!
Q: If I win tickets online or on the radio, where do I pick them up?
A: You’ll pick them up at the radio station’s offices. iHeartMedia San Diego is located at 9660 Granite Ridge Dr, San Diego, CA (in Sierra Mesa, right off Aero Drive!)
Q: CHELS. You are so good at this stuff! Can you give me some tips on how to win contests?
A: BE PERSISTENT. Another thing is during this time of the year, I carry a Walkman around with me (today’s kids will never know!!1!111 unless people sell them on Depop lol) but seriously it’s so helpful!
MEET AND GREETS
Q: Can I buy meet and greets?
A: Unfortunately, meet and greets can’t be bought – they can only be won. Don’t worry though, I’m here to help you out!
Q: Alright then. So how do I win?
A: There will be dons of different meet and greet contests! You’ll be able to enter online raffles, win them on-air, or win them at ticket drop events. Keep reading to learn more.
Q: If I win a meet and greet, do I have to be 18 to attend?
A: Nope! However, whoever won MUST be present at the check in. If the prize is in the name of someone who is older 18, they must enter the concert and check you in.
Q: So if my tia won the meet and greet for me, she has to go to the concert? She can’t just drop me off?
A: That’s right. Meet and greets are non-transferrable. If you win a meet and greet, your name is placed on a guest list at the show, and whoever’s name is on the list must be present at check in. However, they do not have to attend the meet and greet as your guest! For example, when I was younger, the meet and greets would be under my mom’s name. She’d go to the show, check my friend and I in, and my friend and I would go to the show. Hope that makes sense.
Q: How do the meet and greets work?
A: The majority of the meet and greets will take place while the show is going on. Some may take place as soon as the doors open, so PLEASE plan on arriving early. Once you’re checked in, you will be given a wristband and you will get in a line. You will then be taken “backstage” to an area that will have tables, free food for you, and where the meet and greet will be taking place. Most likely, you’ll be asked to put your belongings down on a table right when you enter the room. The meet and greet photos will be taken on a station photographer’s camera (don’t worry, they always look great!), so with that being said, you will not be able to have your phones out. You will likely be asked to group up into pairs for your photo, but depending on the artist’s schedule and how many passes were given out, you may have more people in your group. When it’s your groups turn, you’ll have time to say hi to the artist, get a hug, and take the photo. Then you’ll say goodbye, and be able to much on tons of goodies and hang out!
Q: Can I get autographs?
A: You won’t be able to get anything signed. Last year, I had to leave all of my belongings on a table right when entering the room.
Q: Do I have to stay to eat after the meet and greet?
A: Nope, but there’s usually free food, and free is free! Last year, Jersey Mike’s catered the meet and greet, so I got to help myself to some delicious sandwiches.
Q: Can I bring the artists gifts?
A: Yes! Make sure the gifts can get through security though.
LIST OF TICKET AND MEET AND GREET GIVEAWAYS
Note: This list will be updated regularly
- March 30 through May 4 (ONLINE): Click here to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert! Limit 1 entry per person.
- April 5 through May 4 (ONLINE): Click here to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert from Star 94.1 (Channel 933’s sister station)! Limit 1 entry per person.
- April 6 through April 8 (ON-AIR): Listen to Star 94.1 for the cue to call 570-1941. Be caller #9 and you could win a 4 pack of tickets to Channel 933’s Summer Kickoff Concert!
- April 9 through April 13 (ON-AIR): Listen to Channel 933 for the cue to call, be caller #9 and you could win a pair of tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert!
- April 14 (TICKET DROP): Join Ethan Cole at the Jerome’s in San Marcos (780 Los Vallecitos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069) from 2-4pm for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! This is the first ticket drop of the season. Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes, and at 4pm, a meet and greet with an SKOC artist will be raffled off with the final pair of tickets. Come thru!
- SIGN UP TO RECEIVE INFORMATION FROM THE MARINES AND RECEIVE A TICKET TO THE CHANNEL 933 SUMMER KICKOFF CONCERT: The Marines and Channel 933 are teaming up to give you the hottest ticket of the year – and the adventure of a lifetime. Click here to fill out a simple form and agree to speak with a recruiter about all the benefits of becoming a Marine, and get one free ticket to Channel 933’s Summer Kick Off Concert on May 11th while supplies last. You must be at least 17 years old to sign up. Limit 1 entry per person. Signing up does not obligate you to serve.
- April 16 through April 29 (ONLINE): Suja Juice is hosting the official pre-party for the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and they want you to be there! 10 lucky winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets into the show, early entry, FREE Suja Juice swag, 3 months of FREE Suja Juice deliveries, and you’ll also qualify to be upgraded to 100 level seating! Click here to enter. Limit 1 entry per person. You will not receive additional entries for referrals.
- April 20 (TICKET DROP): Join Chino and Channel 933 at the brand new EPIC Wings N Things at 5120 College Avenue fromm 11am-1pm for your chance to win tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert!
- April 21 (TICKET DROP): Join Ethan Cole and Chanel 933 at the Jerome’s in Scripps Ranch (10724 Treena St, San Diego, CA 92131) from 2-4pm for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes, and at 4pm, a meet and greet with an SKOC artist will be raffled off with the final pair of tickets. You’ll also have a chance to enter to win Jerome’s Best Seats In The House!
- April 23-27 (ON-AIR): Listen to Channel 933 for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff concert. You’ll also win a pair of tickets to the Kendrick Lamar concert on Sunday, May 13 at Mattress Firm Amphitheatre! Click here for more info and to enter online.
- April 24 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU in Mira Mesa (6705 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121) from 11AM-1PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with The Chainsmokers. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with Ne-Yo. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with Iggy Azalea. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with Meghan Trainor. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with Troye Sivan. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with In Real Life. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 25 through May 8 (ONLINE): Click here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert, and a meet and greet with Lauv. You must be 18 or older to enter. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Bonus entries will not be awarded for referrals.
- April 27 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU in Rancho Bernardo (11965 Bernardo Plaza Drive, San Diego, CA 92128) from 3PM-5PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- April 28 (TICKET DROP): Join DJ C-Riz,Channel 933, and Suja Juice at the Ralph’s in Carlsbad (7140 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011) from 11AM-1PM for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! One lucky winner will also recieve a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- April 28 (TICKET DROP): Join Kramer and Channel 933 at the Jerome’s on Morena Blvd (1190 W Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110) from 2PM-4PM for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes, and the final pair will include a meet and greet with an SKOC artist! While you’re there, make sure you sign up to win the Best Seats In the House!
- April 29 (TICKET DROP): Join Producer Chris and Channel 933 at South Bay Volswagen (3131 National City Blvd, National City, CA 91950) from 12-2PM) for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! One lucky winner will also recieve a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- April 30 through May 6 (ON-AIR): It’s Summer Kickoff All Access week! Listen in all week long for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert and a meet and greet with an SKOC artist! Different artists will be announced at different times of the day.
- April 30 (ONLINE): Click here to enter to win a pair of tickets to Channel 933’s Summer Kickoff Concert, brought to you by Southwestern College.
- May 1 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU Sports Arena Branch (3455 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110) from 11AM-1PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- May 3 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU in La Mesa (8555 Fletcher Parkway, La Mesa, CA 91942) from 3PM-5PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- May 3 (TICKET DROP): Join Kramer,Channel 933, and Suja Juice at the Ralph’s on Mission Center Rd. (5680 Mission Center Rd, San Diego, CA 92108) from 3PM-5PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes. One lucky winner will also recieve a meet and greet with an SKOC artist!
- May 6 (TICKET DROP): Join Geena the Latina and Channel 933 at the Jerome’s in El Cajon (333 N Johnson Ave,El Cajon, CA 92020) from 2PM-4PM for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes, and the final pair will include a meet and greet with an SKOC artist! While you’re there, make sure you sign up to win the Best Seats In the House!
- May 8 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU Mission Valley Branch (2245 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, CA 92108) from 11AM-1PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- May 9 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU Carlsbad Branch (2530 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92008) from 3PM-5PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- May 10 (TICKET DROP): Join Channel 933 at the SDCCU Eastlake Branch (2280 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91915) from 3PM-5PM for your chance to win tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert! Tickets will be raffled off every 15 minutes. You’ll also be entered to win a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
- May 10 (TICKET DROP): Join Geena the Latina and Channel 933 at the Jerome’s in Chula Vista (775 Plaza Court, Chula Vista, CA 91910) from 5PM-7PM for your chance to win Summer Kickoff tickets! Tickets will be raffled off every 20 minutes, and the final pair will include a meet and greet with an SKOC artist!
- May 11 (TICKET DROP): Join Letty B and Channel 933 at Toyota Chula Vista (650 Main St. Chula Vista CA 91911) for a special Summer Kickoff live broadcast event from 10AM-3PM. Tickets to the Summer Kickoff Concert will be raffled off every 30 minutes, and one winner will recieve a meet and greet with an SKOC artist.
Win the Best Seats in the House at Channel 933’s Summer Kickoff Concert
Channel 933 and Jerome’s Furniture are teaming up to give you the ultimate SKOC experience! How would you like to enjoy watching the biggest show of the year with three of your best buddies in the iHeartRadio VIP Suite? You’ll be able kick back and watch all the action on Jerome’s premium leather sofas, recieve VIP parking, and a $100 VISA gift card! It doesn’t get any better than that. Visit any Jerome’s showroom up until May 10 to enter. Click here to review the contest rules.
OTHER QUESTIONS
Q: Chels! Are you going to the concert?
A: Of course I am! I’m at Summer Kickoff every year to celebrate my birthday. This year I’ll be turning 20, so make sure you sign my party hat if you spot me!
Q: Can I fight you at the concert?
A: Sorry, you’ll have to get past my entourage if you want to try to instigate something. Not worth it.
Q: When’s your birthday?
A: May 12!
Q: Why are you giving out all this information? Why can’t you just keep it to yourself? Now I have to compete against other people. Not cool Chels…
A: (Don’t start). I’m so blessed to be able to attend this show every year, and every year I try to raise the bar. I want others to be able to have the best Summer Kickoff experiences possible by sharing info and my experiences from previous years, so you can all learn from them and spread the word. Sorry to make you upset! Actually, I’m not, but hey… I’m about to have an awesome birthday, and I want everyone to come live it up with me!
Q: Does it get cold at the venue at night?
A: Sometimes it can get pretty chilly! I always recommend bringing a light sweater.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Wear whatever you’d like!
Q: Do you work for 933?
A: I don’t! Come on man, we’ve been through this plenty of times.
I hope you found this post helpful, and if you did, please share it with your friends! If you have any other questions, comments, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to tweet me or send me a DM on Instagram. My handles on Twitter and IG are @PLNKWIFI. You can also reach me via email at wifimxb@gmail.com. Please add “Summer Kickoff Question” (or something like that) to the email subject, so it doesn’t end up in my spam box! Remember, I’ll be updating this post REGULARLY. Whenever new info is found/hits the surface, you’ll find it here. This is my 6th year attending Summer Kickoff, and it’ll be an awesome show that people will talk about for years. I hope to see you there!
I hope you have the best #933Summer ever! Don’t forget to keep listening to Channel 933!
