It’s safe to say Melbourne is swept up in Taylor Swift mania this week with the global superstar set to touch down in our fair city later this week as she kicks off the Australian leg of her record-breaking Eras tour at the MCG. Whether you’re one of the many disappointed Swifties who missed out on tickets, or you want to keep the Tay Tay magic going for as long as possible, there’s a slew of Taylor Swift related events and experiences happening around town this week and into the near future.
1. Taylor Sheesh at Federation Square – 16 February
Join the Swiftmania party at Fed Square with Filipino drag queen Taylor Sheesh, who’s been impersonating Taylor Swift since 2017. With a growing global following, Taylor Sheesh has toured shopping malls and stadiums across the Philippines with her Errors Tour. Catch her first major public appearance in Australia on Fed Square’s main stage, where she’ll bring her unique brand of entertainment to delight fans of all ages.
2. Taylor Swift themed silent disco walking tour of Melbourne – 16 and 23 February
Take a unique journey across the Melbourne CBD on a silent disco featuring the infectious tunes of Taylor Swift, led by the charismatic Mr. Motion. Join fellow Swifties as you sing along and dance to your favorite hits while exploring the city’s vibrant streets. With headphones provided, you’ll groove to the music and enjoy amusing commentary from the host as you embark on a memorable adventure through public spaces, interacting with your surroundings in a flash mob-style frenzy of fun and laughter.
3. Catch Tay Tay in a screening of Cats at the Astor Theatre – 16 February
Given how hard it was to get tickets to the Eras tour, it’s almost hard to believe that four years ago nobody wanted to buy tickets to see Taylor and a star-studded cast in the screen adaptation of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s musical Cats. Don’t miss out on your chance to catch the 2.8/10 IMDB rated film on the big screen at the beautiful Astor Theatre while Tay Tay herself performs to 100,000 people at the G up the road. Close enough!
4. Taylor Swift themed cookies at The Confectionist’s Richmond pop-up 16-18 February
Get ready to devour Taylor Swift’s face in cookie form at The Confectionist’s limited-time event at the Co.Bake Space in Richmond. Whether you’re heading to the concert at the MCG or just craving some delicious treats, don’t miss out on these exclusive Era’s tour biscuits available for one weekend only.
5. Candlelight concert tributes to Taylor Swift – 24 February and 14 March
Immerse yourself in the ambiance of Collingwood Town Hall on 24 February where hundreds of candles will cast a warm glow as a string quartet fills the air with instrumental renditions of Taylor Swift’s beloved songs. If you can’t attend the Collingwood session, fear not! The Taylor train continues its journey into next month with another candlelit tribute on March 14 at Fitzroy Town Hall.
6. Taylor Swift theme night at the Queen Victoria Summer Night Market – 14 February
This Valentine’s Day, on Wednesday 14 February, QVM is rolling out the red carpet for a one-night-only Taylor Swift extravaganza. Enjoy Taylor Swift-inspired drinks, entertainment, and free friendship bracelet workshops amidst the Summer Night Market’s bustling atmosphere, with 45 street food stalls, 6 festival bars, and 50 market stalls. Sip on the Swifttail cocktail, a blend of strawberry, vodka, and lemonade garnished with fairy floss, while roving entertainers and roller skaters bedecked in glittery costumes pay homage to Taylor’s love for sparkles. A cover band will serenade you with non-stop Taylor hits on the main stage, while resident silent disco dancers Guru Dudu curate an ‘Eras’ playlist for you to “Shake It Off” all night long.
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7. Shake It Off: The Taylor Swift Experience tribute act – 22 March
Experience the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute with “Shake It Off: The Taylor Swift Tribute Show” at Prince Bandroom in St Kilda on Friday, March 22nd. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Mia Isoardi’s remarkable portrayal of Taylor Swift, delivering an unparalleled performance that captures the essence of the iconic singer. Backed by a full rock band featuring Australia’s top touring musicians, “Shake It Off” promises an unforgettable journey through Taylor’s eras, with hit after hit guaranteed to keep you entertained throughout the night.
8. Enjoy Taylor’s fave cocktail, the French Blonde – 15-18 February
Taylor’s favourite cocktail, the French Blonde, has taken the internet by storm, with countless Swifties replicating the recipe on TikTok. Featuring a refreshing blend of grapefruit juice, gin, Lillet Blanc, and elderflower liqueur, this timeless libation is a must-try for fans and cocktail enthusiasts alike. If mixing it at home isn’t your style, don’t fret! Yakimono and Chin Chin have crafted their own versions of the cocktail, available for $24.50 each. Indulge in this delightful concoction from February 15th to Sunday, February 18th, and experience the taste of Swift-approved sophistication.
9. Taylor Swift The Eras (Glenroy’s version) – 15 February
For those who missed out on tickets to see Taylor Swift at The Eras Tour, there’s no need to feel left out. Instead of enduring a “cruel summer,” they can join in the celebration of all things Taylor at Merri-bek Libraries. The entire family is invited to shake it off on the dance floor with The Cornelia Street Band, get crafty making friendship bracelets in the craft corner, and capture unforgettable moments at the photo booth. The event takes place on Thursday, February 15th, from 6pm to 8pm at Glenroy Library, and best of all, it’s completely free!
10. Taylor Swift The Wine Tour – 17 February
Head off on a wine tour with a touch of Taylor Swift on the Bellarine Peninsula. This in-person event ensures a day brimming with wine tasting, music, and delightful vibes. Discover the region’s finest wineries, savour delicious local produce, and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
11. Taylor Swift themed brunch experience – 24 March
Indulge in a Taylor Swift-themed brunch at The Craft & Co Collingwood on March 24th. Bring your crew and immerse yourself in a meal from the ‘Enchanted’ Taylor-themed menu while listening to her timeless songs spanning from ‘Fearless’ to ‘Evermore’. Whether you’re riding the waves of everlasting love, navigating a breakup, or keeping it cool, the songs at this exclusive event have got you covered. No matter where you are in your love life journey, Taylor’s tunes, from ‘All Too Well’ to ‘Getaway Car’, have your back. So gather up your girls, hop in your ‘Getaway Car’, and join us for a delicious brunch experience.
12. Visit Geelong’s Taylor Swift inspired cafe
Discover a touch of Taylor Swift-inspired magic at Blank Space, nestled in the lovely Geelong suburb of Newtown. From a stunning mural to themed drinks, this café offers a cozy spot to enjoy a delicious brunch. Sip on drinks like the Cruel Summer Spritz and soak in the laid-back vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or just looking for a relaxed hangout, Blank Space is the place to be. Swing by at 4/343 Pakington St, Newtown VIC 3220 and let the good times roll!
13. Taylor Swift themed bar crawl – 17 February
Join Melbourne’s ultimate night out at the Taylor Swift-themed bar crawl on February 17th! Kick off the first Saturday night bar crawl of 2024 in style for what promises to be an epic evening and an even bigger year ahead. Starting at Chaise Lounge on 105 Queen St in the city at 8 pm (arrival by 8:20 pm is a must), get ready for four free drinks and access to four amazing venues. Plus, cap off the night at Melbourne’s biggest nightclub, with entry included in your bar crawl ticket.
14. Go to the Eras tour merchandise pre-sale – 14-15 February.
The MCG merchandise presale days will occur Wednesday 14 February – Thursday 15 February from 10am – 6pm, near Gate 1 and Gate 5. On show days external merchandise stands will be open from 12noon until after the concert. Supplies are limited and will be sold on a first come, first served basis.
Top image: Paolo Villanueva
