Houston Chronicle

Everything to know for Swift’s 3-night Eras Tour

- sam.kelly@houstonchr­onicle.com By Joey Guerra STAFF WRITER joey.guerra@houstonchr­onicle.com

The Taylor Swift takeover is almost here.

The “Bad Blood” singer comes to Houston for three shows as part of her Eras Tour: Friday-Sunday at NRG Stadium. And there are a few things you should know before you go.

It will be crowded. It will be loud. It will be long. And it will be fun.

Swift’s shows so far have earned rave reviews from critics and (of course) fans. But to optimize the experience, you need to be prepared. Here are some things to know before you go.

What time does the show start?

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Most shows have been starting around 8 p.m.

How long is the show?

The Eras Tour runs more than three hours, so be ready. It includes 44 songs across 10 acts, or eras.

Who are the opening acts?

Opener Beabadoobe­e, a Filipino-British singersong­writer, scored a viral hit alongside Powfu with “Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head).” The Houston show will also feature pop singer Gracie Abrams, who is the daughter of writer and director J.J. Abrams ("Star Wars,” “Felicity,” “Alias”).

Are there any songs she doesn’t sing?

Don’t expect to hear anything from Swift’s debut album, unless it’s included in the surprise songs section. She’s previously done “Tim McGraw” and “Our Song.” The same goes for “Speak Now,” represente­d in the show by a single song, “Enchanted.”

What’s the merch like?

As with any epic tour, there is lots of merchandis­e to choose from: Tshirts, hoodies, mugs, posters. Online, there’s a $10 poncho, $20 portable charger and $35 “Bejeweled” bracelet. The official merch truck arrived Thursday.

Are bags allowed?

NRG’s clear bag policy will be in effect for all three shows. That means no backpacks, purses or diaper bags. If you want to make it easy on yourself, put what you need in your pockets. If not, you are allowed one clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag no larger than 12 inches long, 6 inches wide and 12 inches high or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag. Fans may also carry a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5 by 6.5 inches, approximat­ely the size of a hand. Disposable, plastic freezer bags will be available to transfer belongings from your own bag. There will not be an option for storing unapproved bags.

What about parking?

Parking is $40 per space at the gate. Don’t bring cash. It’s not accepted. You must have a credit card, Apple or Google Pay. There is no prepaid or advance parking. Save the stress and take an Uber or have someone drop you off.

What should I wear?

Swifties will be in homemade shirts and costumes. Wigs. Re-creations of album covers. References to song lyrics. But in the end, the lights go down and no one sees you, anyway. Make sure to wear comfortabl­e shoes.

Are tickets still available?

Hahahahaha­hahahahaha­ha. They may still be available on resale sites for upward of $600.

 ?? Kevin Winter/Getty Images ?? Taylor Swift will perform this weekend at NRG Stadium for her Eras Tour.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images Taylor Swift will perform this weekend at NRG Stadium for her Eras Tour.

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