German city temporarily rebrands as 'Swiftkirchen' for Taylor Swift

The European leg of "The Eras Tour" is in full swing. Taylor Swift fans are taking over the cities where the artist appears. The German town of Gelsenkirchen has changed its name in honour of the star's arrival.

Taylor Swift is currently the most prominent artist in the world. The American singer is selling out tickets for her concert tour "The Eras Tour" stadium by stadium, as though they were tiny music clubs. Swift fans from all over the globe spend fortunes on tickets, merch, and beads for creating friendship bracelets and outfits that match one of the 11 eras of the artist's work. The cities where the artist appears are filled with crowds who leave large amounts of money in hotels, restaurants, and shops, so it's no surprise that the authorities of these places decide to appreciate the artist's presence.

The authorities of the German city of Gelsenkirchen devised an unusual idea, as Taylor Swift will perform there three times: July 17, 18, and 19. In honour of the American singer, the city has changed its name to Swiftkirchen. Signs with the changed name have appeared in several of the most frequented places in Gelsenkirchen.

The initiator of the action is Taylor Swift fan Aleshanee Westhoff, who lives in Emmerich. She created a petition, which she presented to Gelsenkirchen Mayor Karin Welge. The politician liked the idea, as she mentioned in a letter to Westhoff: "It's a great idea to rename Gelsenkirchen to 'Swiftkirchen temporarily', so I'm delighted, especially since today you can experience this momentary 'transformation' of Gelsenkirchen live and up close."

Karin Welge adds: "As mayor, I am of course very pleased that Taylor Swift, currently the most popular singer in the world, will perform three times in Gelsenkirchen. International attention, right after Euro 2024, will once again focus on our city."

During the stay of Taylor Swift in Gelsenkirchen, a series of activities related to the star are planned, including karaoke, painting washable tattoos, and a swap meet for Swift-related items. There is also a "Taylor Swift tram" running around the city. During her stay in the city, the star is also set to receive her stone on the Walk of Fame in Gelsenkirchen. The mayor announces that the commemorative stone will be colourful so that everyone can recognize it.