The big day has finally arrived…the Inland Empire Food Truck Fest!

Gates open at 11 a.m. for most of you who are attending. Those who bought one of the 500 VIP tickets will be able to get in at 10 a.m. Remember that parking at the Citizens Business Bank Arena is free!

Dine 909 will be there, of course, and we will have some goodies to give away, but you gotta “Like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to get some swag.

For those of you who will be experiencing the food trucks for the first time, here are some tips:

• Bring cash! The majority of the trucks are cash-only. The arena does have an ATM near the box office, so if you run out, that’s a quick fix. Also, for those of you (like myself) who belong to a credit union, there’s a 7-Eleven at 9638 Milliken Ave. (at Fourth Street) that is a couple of blocks from the arena. That’s a good option if you want to stop by on your way and avoid those ATM fees — they’re part of the CO-OP network.
• Get there early! The lines will build as the day goes on. The earlier you get there, the better.
• Split up! If you’re part of a group, a good way to cut your line wait time is to split up. Send members of your party out to stand in separate lines, get food for the group, then meet back up at a centralized location to eat. That will keep you from having to stand in line after line after line.
• Pace yourself! There will be plenty to do that doesn’t involve food. Check out the bands or watch the roller derby and skate demos.
• Stay cool! It’s overcast now, but it’s supposed to be 78 later. Bring sunscreen or a hat, and stay in the shade as much as possible.
• Be adventurous! You never know how much you’re going to like a burrito stuffed with Filipino-style pork until you try it. Enjoy!
• Join us! It’s not too late! VIP tickets are sold out, but general admission tickets ($10) will be available at the door.

Hope to see you there!