German City Temporarily Renamed “Swiftkirchen” Ahead of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Concert
07.07.2024: In a unique tribute to pop sensation Taylor Swift, the city of Gelsenkirchen in western Germany is temporarily renaming itself “Swiftkirchen” in honor of her upcoming Eras Tour shows. This decision came to fruition after a dedicated fan, Aleshanee Westhoff from Emmerich, started a petition and wrote to Mayor Karin Welge, who approved the proposal.
Taylor Swift’s Concerts in Swiftkirchen
Taylor Swift is scheduled to perform three concerts in Gelsenkirchen from July 17-19, attracting thousands of her enthusiastic fans, known as ‘Swifties.’ To celebrate the occasion, the city is putting up signs with the new name, “Swiftkirchen,” which translates to “Swift’s Church.”
Mayor Welge expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “It’s a great idea to temporarily rename Gelsenkirchen to ‘Swiftkirchen,’ and I am particularly pleased that fans can experience this live and up close.” The first sign marking the entrance to “Swiftkirchen” was installed on Ebertstrasse by Westhoff herself.
Preparations and Surprises for Swifties
Markus Schwardtmann, head of the city’s public relations department, announced, “Today is the starting signal. We will be installing many more signs in highly frequented places in Gelsenkirchen in the coming days.” Additionally, a “Taylor Swift tram” will be making rounds, offering fans an attractive selfie opportunity. Red frames have been set up all over the city to add to the festive atmosphere.
Taylor Swift will also receive her own stone on the Gelsenkirchen Walk of Fame, joining local luminaries like soccer coach Rudi Assauer and writer Ilse Kibgis. “There will be many small and large surprises so that the Swifties in Gelsenkirchen have a lot to discover,” Schwardtmann added.
The city will also host a “big open-air Taylor Swift party” named “Taylor Town,” featuring activities such as a swap market, karaoke, and even tattoos related to the star.
International Spotlight on Swiftkirchen
Mayor Welge highlighted the significance of Swift’s visit, saying, “As mayor, I am of course very happy that Taylor Swift, currently the most successful singer in the world, will be performing three times in Gelsenkirchen. International attention will therefore be back on our city immediately after EURO 2024.”
Taylor Swift is no stranger to such grand gestures. Earlier in the Eras Tour, Arizona’s Glendale was temporarily renamed “Swift City” to celebrate her tour stop.