Fans arrive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

ATLANTA - It is the biggest college football matchup of the season as the Georgia Bulldogs take on the Alabama Crimson Tide inside Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

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The College Football Playoff National Championship kicked off at 8 p.m., but fans started arriving at Centennial Olympic Park hours before the game. 

COMPLETE COVERAGE: CFP National Championship

Fans were being urged to arrive early to avoid traffic issues and also to enjoy the fun festivities taking place outside the stadium, including a free concert series. Some of the family-friendly events include Playoff Fan Central at the Georgia World Congress Center, Championship Tailgate Plaza, and AT&T PLaylist Live at Centennial Olympic Park. Darius Rucker will headline the pregame event Monday afternoon.

The ESPN Halftime Performance and Watch Party, which will feature a live performance by Kendrick Lamar, is also taking place at Centennial Olympic Park. This is a non-ticketed and free event for all fans. 

MORE: List of events for College Football Playoff National Championship

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Gates to the stadium opened at 5 p.m. The pregame show started at 7:30 p.m., followed by kickoff. 

Atlanta Police were urging fans to take advantage of public transportation. College Football Playoff officials said it would be ideal for fans to get to the area by 4 p.m. Monday, or well in advance. Major traffic delays are expected, including President Donald Trump's presidential motorcade. 

DON'T MISS: Game day guide for College Football Playoff National Championship

For more information on the CFP National Championship, click here. #GoDawgsFOX5