NEW YORK, March 19, 2008 Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced an exclusive automotive partnership with the 2008 Vans Warped Tour Americas longest-running touring festival. Kia will sponsor a VIP lounge atmosphere throughout the tour where fans can meet-and-greet their favorite music artists and enter a sweepstakes to win a new Kia vehicle.
“As the top youth music and action sports festival, the Vans Warped Tour perfectly embodies the same youthful and dynamic energy as the Kia brand and its vehicles,” said Tim Chaney, director, marketing of KMA. “Serving as the exclusive automotive partner of the Vans Warped Tour allows Kia to connect with and keep its finger on the pulse of this ever-growing and vital audience.”
Prior to the tour launch, Kia will offer fans the opportunity to enter the “Keys to Warped” Sweepstakes and have the chance to win “Fly Away” trips to tour stops, artist and band meet-and-greets, after-party prizes and Kia merchandise. During each stop, concert-goers have the opportunity to visit the Kia Lounge, an interactive tent featuring displays with information about Kia vehicles, including design history and customization opportunities, a DJ and the chance to win a new vehicle by entering a sweepstakes. Each tour venue features a Kia VIP section, a raised area near the main stage that offers artist and fan interviews, cardboard cut-out photo opportunities and artist signing sessions.
“Kia is a perfect fit for a partnership with the Vans Warped Tour,” said Kevin Lyman, Vans Warped Tour founder and producer. “In addition to the music and sports aspect of the tour, Kia provides our fans with a look into vehicle options and lifestyles aimed directly toward their generation.”
Now in its 14th year, the Vans Warped Tour is the nations #1 alternative music tour. It has cemented its place in history by playing a major role in bringing punk-rock/skate/action sports culture from the underground to the forefront of American youth culture, while at the same time creating awareness and taking action toward environmental causes and helping those in need. The traveling punk rock summer camp features a diverse array of artists as well as a variety of lifestyle attractions for its traditionally low ticket price. Kicking off June 20, 2008 in Pomona, Calif., the Vans Warped Tour hits 45 stops countrywide throughout the summer and features more than 100 bands, including top-level musical talent. Bands and cities for the tour that Alternative Press readers voted the “Best Tour/Festival” of 2006 and Rolling Stone called “Americas most successful festival” (2005) can be found on the tours Web site: www.warpedtour.com.
Select tour dates and destinations of the 2008 Vans Warped Tour include: