The VMAs hold many unknowns, like why did Lil Mama dress like an overgrown baby at last year's VMAs, how did this become this, and do we actually live in a world where Bette Midler once hosted the awards? (Yes we do, and yes she did).

We can tell you that the 2008 VMAs are Sunday, Sept. 7th, live from Hollywood, but we still aren't allowed to reveal the top-shelf offerings, like the host, the performers, and the guests (anyone else think Shwayze's gonna be there?)

We can also tell you about a VMA pre-party, if you will, and, it involves roller coasters, live performances by bands like Boys Like Girls and Metro Station, and possibly vomiting (on account of the rides, not the bands).

Boys Like Girls, Katy Perry, Metro Station, and All Time Low are performing at pre-VMA gigs at Six Flags (more fun!) all over the country (this country, America) from July 23rd through September 1. Get the mtvU Video Music Awards Tour dates and ticket information here, and then get ready to rock and ride. (Like that? We just made that up.)

+ Watch Katy Perry perform "I Kissed a Girl" live from FNMTV.

+ Watch Boys Like Girls' new video, "Thunder."

+ Watch Metro Station's exclusive Buzzworthy interview.

+ Watch All Time Low's tour diary videos.

+ Plus: Relevant amusement park video by Avril: