Singapore is in the grip of Taylor Swift mania as the global pop icon descends for The Eras Tour, an exclusive six-day spectacle from 2 to 9 March, attracting fans from across Southeast Asia.
The surge in Taylor Swift tourism within Singapore can be attributed to the government's strategic approach during the pandemic. It is rumoured that a contract was established with her team, securing exclusive performances solely in Singapore and not elsewhere in Southeast Asia. This decision, however, has sparked controversy and discontent among neighbouring nations like Thailand and the Philippines.
Despite the controversy, Southeast Asian fans continue to flock in, and Taylor Swift's arrival on 27 February via her private jet has ignited a country-wide phenomenon. The impact is particularly evident in the bustling hotels across the city-state, experiencing a surge in occupancy rates.
Anticipating the overwhelming demand for Taylor Swift, the city has transformed into a Swiftie's paradise, featuring Taylor Swift-themed activities across various venues.
Jewel Changi Airport's BeJEWELed Night
Jewel Changi Airport turned into a sing-along spot on 1 March led by Joie Tan and band 53A. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Daniel Ferryanto
On March 1, Jewel Changi Airport transformed into a magical sing-along venue, creating an enchanting night under the stars for Swifties. Led by local singer Joie Tan and the band 53A, attendees immersed themselves in Taylor Swift's eras, singing and dancing to hits like Love Story, You Belong with Me, Blank Space, and the titular Bejeweled.
The Eras Tour experiences at Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is organising a 15-minute Taylor Swift themed light and water show. Photo Credit: Marina Bay Sands
- The Eras Tour light and water show: A daily light and water show is scheduled at the Event Plaza from 28 February to 7 March at 8 and 9 pm, with additional shows on 1 and 2 March at 10 pm. This 15-minute spectacle transforms Marina Bay Sands’ signature light and water show, choreographed to four of Taylor Swift’s chart-toppers: You Belong With Me, Cruel Summer, Style, and Shake It Off. The performance features dancing fountain jets, vivid visual projections, radiant lasers, and synchronised lava effects, all synchronised with the lively beats of these tracks.
- The Eras Tour trail: Between 28 February and 13 March, fans can delve into Taylor Swift’s musical “eras” at The Eras Tour Trail. Seven zones, strategically placed at The Shoppes and Sands Expo & Convention Centre, offer Instagram-worthy settings, portraying Swift’s musical evolution and capturing pivotal seasons like the Lover and nostalgic 1989 eras.
Lau Pa Sat Enchanted
Lau Pa Sat has also jumped onto the Taylor Swift bandwagon, featuring a band that will cover her popular songs. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/zappa04
Even Singapore’s famed hawker center, Lau Pa Sat, is not immune to the Taylor Swift mania. On 8 March, the band On The Rox will perform live covers of Taylor Swift's hottest songs in a captivating sing-along session. Food Folks sweetens the deal with free limited-edition friendship bracelets and discounts on exclusive fedora hats with a minimum spend and concert ticket flash. Taylor-themed food selections, including Yoghurt Lavender ice cream and 'Enchanted' apple cheese pancakes, add to the culinary experience.
Taylor Swift's global phenomenon
Beyond these events, a plethora of Taylor Swift-themed experiences is emerging across various retail and F&B outlets in Singapore. Unofficial after-parties, drink menus inspired by Swift's songs, and more contribute to the city's vibrant celebration of the pop sensation.
Ever since the commencement of Taylor Swift's Eras tour last year, it has evolved into a global phenomenon. From selling out massive arenas within minutes to crashing Ticketmaster during the presale in the US, The Eras Tour has been making headlines worldwide. As Taylor Swift became the flavour of the season wherever she performed, Swifties in Singapore and beyond have found inventive ways to revel in her music, organising Taylor Swift-themed parties and events.
Singapore is one of only two stops in Asia for The Eras Tour, with Taylor Swift previously performing in Tokyo in February. The exclusivity of her appearances in the region has heightened the anticipation, drawing fans from diverse corners of Asia to partake in this unforgettable experience.