Taylor Swift’s Eras tour crowds raise New Orleans small businesses’ revenue ‘by 900%’ in ‘life-changing’ impact to city

According to The Sun, Taylor Swift’s latest stop on her Eras Tour in New Orleans has proven a game-changer for the Crescent City’s small businesses, The U.S. Sun reveals exclusively. The star’s three sold-out shows at Caesars Superdome over the weekend generated more revenue than Mardi Gras or the Super Bowl, setting new economic records for New Orleans.

A Swift Takeover of New Orleans

Taylor, 34, brought in over 65,000 fans for each show, making it a monumental weekend for the city. Swiftie mania took over New Orleans, with fans crowding streets, cafes, and stores adorned with Taylor-themed decorations and products. A 140-foot friendship bracelet even decorated the front of the stadium as a nod to a trend popularized by the singer.

Swift’s influence was felt throughout the city, where businesses in the French Quarter leaned into the theme with special Taylor-inspired menus, drinks, and merchandise. The entire area buzzed with excitement as bars, cafes, and even street musicians joined in the festivities by playing Taylor’s songs.

Life-Changing Impact on Local Businesses

Greater New Orleans, Inc. reported that Swift’s visit generated over $500 million in revenue, with 160,000 fans traveling into the city. Louis Armstrong International Airport confirmed its highest-ever Sunday attendance, with 32,134 travelers.

Local businesses experienced record sales. Stoney Clover, an accessories company, went all-out with Taylor-themed decor and merchandise. “We had at least 900% more business than usual,” a staffer shared, noting they sold out of products due to the overwhelming demand.

Street vendor Claudine, who has sold handmade goods on Royal Street for years, expressed how the weekend changed her life. “It’s been the biggest weekend for my business,” she said. “I’ve never seen anything like this, even during Mardi Gras or the Super Bowl. Now, I can finally afford to take my daughter to Disney World.”

Small Businesses See Unprecedented Growth

Boutiques such as NoLa Kids and Forever Fleur saw five times their usual foot traffic, while NoLa Waffle experienced a 400% increase in sales, with lines stretching down the block all weekend. Meghan, a New Orleans native selling handmade arts and crafts by the river, said she made more from Swiftie-themed items this weekend than she had throughout the summer.

A Weekend of Joy and Music

Fans from all over the world filled New Orleans, celebrating the weekend in dazzling outfits inspired by Taylor’s songs and albums. Gracie Abrams, 25, opened each show, thrilling the crowd with a 40-minute set.

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As Taylor took the stage, fans erupted in applause, cheering as she began her iconic setlist, starting with “Miss Americana & the Heartbreak Prince” from the Lover era. Moving through songs from Fearless, Red, Speak Now, Reputation, and Folklore/Evermore, she enchanted the crowd, which reached a fever pitch during her surprise song set, where she performed unique mashups for each night.

Technical Challenges and Resilience

A small technical hiccup occurred on Sunday when a platform malfunctioned, but Taylor and her team adapted smoothly, keeping the performance flawless. Taylor closed each night with her Midnights era, taking a final bow as confetti rained over the ecstatic crowd.

Taylor’s Reflection on New Orleans’ Warm Welcome

On Instagram, Taylor reflected on the unforgettable weekend. “Wow, New Orleans. I’m still smiling thinking about that wonderful weekend. The city really welcomed us with open arms (and friendship bracelets),” she shared.

Taylor’s last U.S. stops are in Indianapolis before wrapping up the Eras Tour in Canada, capping off a nearly two-year journey of unprecedented success.