Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour took over the city

It wasn’t your ordinary concert.

The Eras Tour took over Vancouver this weekend in a way that was unprecedented. Just how strong a grip did Swiftie mania have on the city?

Gastown steam clock:

Gastown’s iconic clock was tuned to play an approximate rendition of the superstar’s hit Shake it Off. This was the first time in the clock’s 50-plus year history that the tuning has ever been changed. This will run until Dec. 13, Swift’s 35th birthday.

Capilano Suspension Bridge:

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park gave the bridge a Swiftie makeover.

Vancouver police horses:

VPD horses were spotted wearing friendship bracelets around their necks.

Statues:

The iconic A-maze-ing Laughter bronze sculpture in English Bay saw the laughing figures also sporting friendship bracelets.

Ferries and public transit:

Extra buses, trains, and ferries were added to accommodate the crowds coming to the city, but it wasn’t just that. TransLink changed the look of its signage to get in on the craze.

Meanwhile, BC Ferries announced special “Sailor Swift” sailings.

Tattoos:

Some Vancouver tattoo parlours offered Taylor-themed tats, and fans lined up to get inked with permanent mementos of the tour.

“I’ve been tattooing 17 years, and I’ve never seen a buzz like this around an event,” said Gray Lantern Tattoo artist Paul Bevin.

“It’s legitimately the wildest I’ve seen.”

Donuts:

Vancouver-based Lee’s Donuts in Gastown catered to the crowds with Taylor Swift-themed flavours: Fearless, Speak Now, and Lover.
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Taylor drinks for free:

The singer was offered free drinks, should she show up at the Cambie Pub.

Add to this countless events including scavenger hunts, drag shows, food tours, and a karaoke trolley tour, as well as thousands upon thousands of friendship bracelets on fans’ arms, the Eras Tour held Vancouver in its grips.

In total, it is estimated that concert provided the city with an economic windfall of over $150 million.

With files from The Canadian Press.