What to know before the Firebirds’ home opening game

Summer may have come to an end, but the desert is getting fired up for the return of the Coachella Valley Firebirds. 

Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. against the Bakersfield Condors, but you’re going to want to get there early to take in the fun. 

Fans are invited to come out before the game and enjoy some pre-game festivities like live music, games, photos with our favorite Firebird, Fuego and a special red-carpet arrival from the Firebirds.

That arrival was originally scheduled for 4:45 p.m. but the Firebirds announced they’re moving it up to 4:30 p.m.

Make sure to get there early to catch the Firebirds kicking off the season in style and get your hands on some special giveaways.

"We’ll be giving away a magnetic season schedule on the way in and the Western Conference Championship banner on the way out. We’re excited to have everybody here, can’t wait to get this building loud and rockin’ again just like we did at the end of the season last year. These players are ready, our team is ready and all we’re missing are the fans," said Gina Rotolo, with the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

There will be plenty of fun for the entire family including an inflatable street hockey set up.

You’ll want to get to your seat early too, the team will be unveiling the Western Conference banner and hosting their team introductions. 

Here are some quick things to know know before you go to tonight’s home opening game.

• Acrisure Arena has a clear bag policy, that can not exceed 14 by 6 inches. Small clutches, purses and wallets are permitted. 
• You can prepay parking at ParkWhiz, and carpooling is highly encouraged.
• Arena vendors are cashless, so have your credit or debit card handy if you want to buy some snack or merchandise.
• Be prepared to show your mobile ticket to arena ushers so they can help you find your seat.
• Layer up! The arena can get pretty chilly.

You can find an even more detailed outline of things to know before Friday's big game here.

If you are not headed to the game and want to watch from home, you can tune in to the CW starting at 6:30 tonight. Go Firebirds!