Swifties Take Note: Overdoing the Bling Could Create Security Snags at Taylor Swift’s Vancouver Concerts

Taylor Swift fans gearing up for her final three Eras Tour shows in Vancouver this weekend have been warned to avoid over-bejewelling their clear bags or risk being denied entry at B.C. Place.

The concerts, scheduled for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, mark the end of Swift’s record-breaking global tour, attracting fans from across Canada and abroad. But as excitement builds, so do the security protocols aimed at managing what is expected to be one of the largest event weekends in the city’s history.

B.C. Place general manager Chris May emphasized the venue’s strict clear bag policy, which prohibits non-transparent bags and restricts decorations on clear ones.

“Adding too many embellishments, like stickers or rhinestones, can make a clear bag non-compliant,” May said. “Small decorations on one side might be acceptable, but fully decorated bags that obscure visibility will be denied at the gate.”

Security Challenges and Crowd Management

Beyond bag restrictions, authorities are preparing for the challenges posed by hosting three consecutive sold-out shows, each expected to draw tens of thousands of fans to the stadium district.

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is deploying 700 officers over the weekend, with measures tailored to Swift’s unique fanbase.

“We’re looking at a very diverse crowd, including many young fans traveling from outside Greater Vancouver, some from overseas,” said Sgt. Steve Addison of the VPD. “For context, this is on par with the 2010 Olympic men’s gold medal game in terms of excitement—but multiplied by three.”

Temporary fencing has been installed around B.C. Place for crowd control, with ticket checks required to enter the perimeter. Fans without tickets are urged to stay away from the area, as no external gathering zones have been designated.

Heightened National Security Awareness

While there are no specific threats tied to the Vancouver shows, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) noted the country’s general threat level remains at medium. This follows global concerns earlier in the year, including a foiled terrorist plot at Swift’s concerts in Vienna.

“Large-scale events always come with risks, but we’re closely monitoring any potential threats with our partners,” said Lindsay Sloane, a CSIS spokesperson.

A Historic Finale

Swift’s Sunday show in Vancouver will mark the 149th and final stop on her Eras Tour, which began nearly two years ago. Spanning continents and grossing over $1 billion, the tour has cemented Swift’s place as a global pop icon.

For fans planning to attend, May has one simple message: “Come prepared, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the show of a lifetime—but leave the over-the-top bling at home.”