Thousands of eager Taylor Swift fans from across Canada and around the globe descended on downtown Toronto Thursday to see the world’s bestselling artist mark the Canadian debut of her Eras Tour.
Star photographers captured Swifties of all ages showing off their themed outfits, including friendship bracelets, sequins and sparkles, heart-shaped glasses and vibrant-coloured wigs.
The excitement was palpable early in the day as fans gathered at an all-ages pre-concert event called Toronto’s Version: Taylgate ’24.
Meredith, 10, from New Hampshire, U.S., was there showing off her Taylor Swift-themed look. A portion of the event proceeds will go to Daily Bread Food Bank’s emergency food programs.
For some, the concert was a perfect opportunity for a reunion.
Michelle Cousineau travelled to Toronto from Illinois while her sister-in-law Karlie Reinberger came in from Ottawa. The pair arrived at the Rogers Centre early in the morning to revel in the first day of Swift’s six concerts.
Then there the fans like Lexi, who lit up a subway car with her vibrant jacket and heart-shaped shades. She was heading to the Rogers Centre with her sisters Jordyn and Morgan, and their mother Jeanette.
At Union Station, fans Olivia and Landon were all smiles as they made their way to the venue.
And where there were signs pointing to Taylor Swift, there were photoshoots — because, why not?
Outside the Rogers Centre, fans smiled ear to ear as they posed for pictures against a backdrop of Eras Tour decor.
Bridget Saric has already seen the Eras Tour 14 times, but came from London, England, and met her parents — Spock and Lisa, who flew from Australia — in hopes of seeing it a 15th time.
“I’m insane,” Bridget told the Star earlier this week.
The family made their long journeys, despite not having tickets. But they managed to score some for Thursday’s opening concert earlier in the day.
Long lines, cool weather and the threat of rain didn’t stop Swifties from soaking in the fun of Swift’s opening day concert.
And, finally, the moment they all came for: Taylor Swift took the stage.
“Toronto, welcome to the Eras Tour,” she told a cheering crowd.
The 34-year-old megastar said this is the longest tour she’s ever done — and she’s been performing this since she was 15.
“I’m just having more fun on this tour than I’ve ever had on a tour in my life,” she said, telling the crowd that they turned it into something more than “just a concert.”
“You’ve turned it into a full event, and the way the city of Toronto has embraced us and welcomed us, we notice all of it, and it’s heartening.”
Outside the Rogers Centre, scores of fans celebrated the concert inside as they “Taylor-gated” — singing and dancing along to Swift’s music.
Though some lyrics were a bit tricky to make out.
