As Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour wrapped up its global journey with three sold-out shows at BC Place, Vancouver is set to experience an estimated AU$173 million economic impact, according to Destination Vancouver and BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo).
Vancouver took centre stage over the weekend as the 149th and final act of Taylor Swift’s glittering global spectacle, the Eras Tour—a cultural phenomenon that’s dazzled across five continents. Over 20 unforgettable months, the tour has rewritten records, grossing an estimated US$2.6 billion, making it the highest-grossing concert tour in history and leaving a trail of enchanted Swifties in its wake.
In Vancouver alone, it’s estimated that thanks to Tay Tay, AU$107 million in direct spending will flow into accommodation, dining, retail, and transportation, with 70 per cent of the spending driven by out-of-town visitors.
Royce Chwin, President & CEO of Destination Vancouver, highlighted the transformative impact of Swift’s Vancouver shows, saying, “The announcement last November that Taylor Swift would play three nights in Vancouver and close out The Eras Tour in our city in December was exactly the announcement we were hoping for. It’s such good news for fans and for our tourism and hospitality sector, particularly since early December is generally a slower time for major events.”
The shows attracted 150,000 fans over three nights, with more than 82,000 room nights booked across the region. Chwin compared the anticipated impact to the massive economic benefits seen in Toronto, where six Eras Tour shows generated similar levels of spending and tourism.
Meanwhile, Vancouver’s Mayor, Ken Sim, shared his excitement about the city’s hosting of the finale of Swift’s groundbreaking tour: “I couldn’t be more thrilled that Vancouver will be the last stop on Taylor Swift’s record-breaking The Eras Tour.
“This iconic event hasn’t just captivated audiences around the world; it has translated into a huge economic boost for every city it has visited, and Vancouver is no exception. With an expected economic impact of $173 million, this is an incredible opportunity for our restaurants, hotels, and local businesses to shine.”
The Eras Tour will also leave a philanthropic mark in Vancouver. Through the BC Place Community Benefit Program, PavCo has donated tickets and prize packages to local charities, enabling organisations to raise significant funds through auctions and raffles. The total funds raised will be announced in early 2025.
An Era of financial wins in Australia and beyond
Approximately 11 million tickets were sold across 149 shows, with fans travelling an average of 544 kilometres to attend each event globally.
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour not only captivated audiences worldwide but also significantly impacted local economies, including Australia’s. In Melbourne, the tour generated an impressive $174 million in additional revenue for the inner city.
The influx of Swifties led to a surge in travel and accommodation bookings. Brisbane Airport reported approximately 25,400 extra passengers travelling to Sydney and Melbourne for the concerts. Flight Centre noted a 64 per cent increase in bookings from New Zealand to these cities during the tour period.
The tour’s economic influence extended beyond ticket sales, boosting sectors like hospitality and retail. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Swift Lift,” underscores the substantial economic benefits that major entertainment events can bring to host cities.
Some fans even felt the earth move at one of Tay Tay’s gigs. During her Seattle show on July 23, 2023, fans’ enthusiastic dancing caused a 2.3 magnitude earthquake.
Canada was announced as a late addition to the tour last year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously pleaded with the star on social media to visit Canada, telling her, “Don’t make it another ‘Cruel Summer,’” in a nod to one of her hits.
As Vancouver geared up for the Eras Tour finale, Vancouver was transformed into a Swiftie paradise. Downtown areas were adorned with “Swiftcouver” signage and landmarks like the Capilano Suspension Bridge joined in the festivities, lighting up with Swift-inspired displays.
With $173 million in economic impact, Vancouver’s grand finale will leave a legacy of love long after Taylor Swift’s final note was played.
For more on Vancouver, head to Destination Vancouver and HelloBC.
