Today, Fingerprints Music, a known record store in Long Beach, will host a block party and listening party to celebrate the release of Taylor Swift’s new album “The Life of a Showgirl”.
The block party will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m, it is free for everyone however, some activities like making a personalized tote bag or receiving a showgirl themed bracelet require a purchase from the participating stores.
The music store will be celebrating with its neighbouring boutiques, who will participate in creative activities to help attending fans enjoy the album release.
“We’ve been doing things with Taylor for quite a few years now, and this one [the new album] felt like they really wanted to push everyone to Target. And we feel like with people not wanting to support some of Target’s policies, we wanted to make sure we gave people a place to celebrate,” said Rand Foster, owner of Fingerprints Music.
According to the events planned out, Fingerprints will hold a listening party and provide a photo station so supporters can enjoy the music while capturing moments together with their friends.
The Better Half Boutique, a store that sells personalized gifts and home decor, will provide DIY Taylor Swift art kits, a community art canvas and complimentary drinks.
A clothing boutique named And Then LB will have an Eras costume contest, along with a free showgirl friendship bracelet with a $25 purchase at their store.
“If you go to Fingerprints, you can get a little passport with Taylor’s picture on it. If you go to each store and do all the different activities, you get a stamp. If you complete all the stamps, you can turn your passport back in and then they’re gonna draw a name to get a grand prize,” said Katie Atctus, owner of And Then LB.
Rooted Long Beach, a zero-waste, eco-friendly refill shop, will provide fans with the opportunity to create their own personal lyric art tote using their favorite Taylor lyrics with a purchase of $25 at the store.
An LBCC student who is a fan of Swift shared her excitement for the event.
“I’ve grown up with Taylor’s music all this time, and I’m so excited to hear what this one’s gonna sound like. Me and my friends are super excited because we’re going to see her behind-the-scenes movie premiere for this album at AMC (movie theatres) beforehand. We’re gonna go to Fingerprints afterwards and enjoy the music,” said Christina Flores, a student at Long Beach City College.
Expect sparkly outfits, plenty of pink, and Swift’s greatest hits echoing down the block as fans flood the street dressed in everything from cowboy boots to Midnights-blue glitter. It’s a fan reunion.
