Swifties are set to take over the German city formerly known as Gelsenkirchen, where American superstar Taylor Swift is scheduled to perform three Eras Tour concerts later this month.
In honor of Swift, the city has temporarily renamed itself “Swiftkirchen” to welcome the tens of thousands of fans expected for her shows on July 17, 18, and 19, according to German news agency dpa.
A yellow city sign with the new name, which translates roughly to “Swift’s Church,” was unveiled Tuesday by Swift fan Aleshanee Westhoff. The teenager had suggested the name to the city’s mayor and started a petition a few weeks ago.
Mayor Karin Welge thanked Westhoff for her “great idea” in a letter accepting the proposal.
The Swiftie sign, emblazoned with a pink portrait of the pop icon, is located in the city center. Additional signs will be placed at various high-traffic locations in Gelsenkirchen in the coming days, city spokesman Markus Schwardtmann told dpa.
Gelsenkirchen, one of Germany’s poorest cities, is a former coal mining town that has struggled since the decline of its main industry. It is known for its soccer team and a large stadium that occasionally hosts international entertainers like Swift.
The U.S. singer will also receive her own stone on the Gelsenkirchen Walk of Fame, alongside local notable figures such as soccer coach Rudi Assauer and writer Ilse Kibgis. During her concerts, the city will host open-air parties featuring karaoke performances.
A “Taylor Swift streetcar” is already operational, according to dpa.
Further fan attractions are being planned but are currently being kept secret.
“There will be lots of big and small surprises so that the Swifties have plenty to discover in Gelsenkirchen,” Schwardtmann said.
Swift’s concerts in Gelsenkirchen are sold out and will take place at the Veltins-Arena on Schalke stadium, which can accommodate up to 70,000 fans.
Additional Eras Tour shows are planned for Hamburg and Munich.