The Swifties Takeover has begun as Taylor Swift returns to Philly with her Eras Tour debut at Lincoln Financial Field.
I can admit it. I appreciate the lyrical cleverness and production value of a Taylor Swift tune. I won’t go so far as to call myself a Swifty, nor will I confirm or deny how many times a Swift track appears on any of my playlists, but I can dig her vibe. So as she makes her way back to her home state of Pennsylvania to kick off a three-night run of her Eras Tour at the Linc, it’s understandable that a Taylor Swift Takeover is in order.
Several local businesses are rolling out the “purple” carpet for Swift and her local Swifties: “Tay-gates” and dance parties, Swift-inspired drinks, and more, And if you find yourself one of the latter, check out some of the activities this week leading up to the concert weekend.
Assembly Rooftop Lounge at The Logan Hotel invites local and visiting Taylor Swift fans to enjoy a themed cocktail in celebration of her Era’s Tour. They will serve a Lavender Haze cocktail with butterfly tea infused Stateside Vodka, St. Germain, lime, and club soda.
From May 12 to May 14, The Dutch will offer three craft cocktails inspired by the famous Berks County native. Try the Lavender Haze, made of sparkling wine, simple syrup, lemon juice, and butterfly pea flowers as garnish. The Getaway (Side) Car is made of Jamaican rum, cognac, pineapple shrub, and lime juice. Finally, the White Horse includes pear and cardamom-infused vodka, house-made coffee liqueur, and a cream float.
Latchkey on East Passyunk Avenue is organizing a Taylor Swift Concert Pre-Game on May 12 from 5 to 7 pm. Taylor Swift vinyl, including exclusive copies of her latest album “Midnights”, will be on sale at a 10% discount. In addition, DJ Marc Faletti will play Taylor Swift songs and complimentary glasses of a mini-cocktail called “Red” will be served to attendees aged 21 and over. And if you’re attending, you can play “Era’s (Latchkey’s Version)”, a Taylor Swift-themed board game that combines Taylor Swift trivia and gameplay similar to Monopoly.
Xfinity Live! is hosting a Taylor Swift pre-game party on May 12, 13, and 14 in partnership with Le Petite Fete. Before each concert, Xfinity Live! will have an immersive pre-game party called Tay-Gates, including a DJ, a dance party, themed cocktails, photo booths, a costume contest, and more. Tay-Gate will be in the outside plaza and on the Bud Light Seltzer Stage at Xfinity Live! Tickets are available for $50 each and will grant admission to the event and access to a complimentary food buffet.
With the Taylor Swift Takeover in full effect, Swifities, you’ve got a big week ahead of you. So get out there and let your best Antihero shine.