Yahoo News The 'strict' queueing rules Taylor Swift fans can expect at Eras Tour concerts
When it comes to queueing at a Taylor Swift concert, there are a number of 'unwritten' rules that must be followed. Die-hard Taylor Swift fans paid close attention to the rules as they showed up for the Eras Tour at Liverpool's Anfield Stadium yesterday, securing prime positions from as early as 5am.
Kicking off the general access line were mother-daughter duo Gracie and Anitta Simmons, who made the long journey from Mississippi specifically for the concert. They maintained a respectful distance to the side of the stadium while those with early access tickets were guided behind barriers at the entrance.
Despite multiple queues snaking around the stadium, Swift's fan base, known as Swifties, adhere to an 'unspoken' rule about preserving order and preventing queue hopping. Those waiting in general admission lines mark "GA#" on their hands to indicate "'General access' and their spot in the queue.
They take their places behind the early-access spectators once the doors open. This fan-led system is a cherished tradition among Swifties that unfolds at every concert. Heading up yesterday's queues was Jae Blackburn, 22, who positioned themself at 6am, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Alongside loyal friend Poppy Sheeran, they guided hundreds of eager Swifties in finding their position in line. Brandishing nothing more than a humble marker pen and voicing clear instructions, it's not Jae's first stint as the unofficial concert 'steward'.
Speaking to the Liverpool ECHO, they commented: "I've been to concerts before where you queue from 6am then end up ten rows back. There have been fights at some shows over people's place in line, which isn't nice, so it's great that we all come together and agree before we get here this is the way things work."
Jae has been a beacon for the wandering Swifties at Anfield, guiding them throughout the day and possibly into the night. But remember, they're just fans, not official staff, so try to keep your queries to the pros in hi-vis jackets if you can.
The stewards at Anfield are clued up on Swiftie queue culture and assured that they'll do their utmost to respect the fans' impressive self-management. Jae shared: "Everyone here has been really great and everyone we've spoken to has been cool. We're all just sitting around talking, swapping bracelets and having fun. There's no drama - it's a great atmosphere already."
Jae and their squad are embarking on an epic Taylor Swift journey, hitting up the Eras Tour five times. They'll be soaking up the vibes inside Liverpool's stadium tonight and Saturday, while Friday will find them chilling in Stanley Park, catching the tunes as they float over the walls.
With plans to hit Cardiff and London later this month, they're living the dream Swiftie summer. Jae enthused: "We've been waiting for this for pretty much our whole lives. We're so excited!"
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