"We want people to know Glendale, Arizona, we are the sports and entertainment district, not just in the Valley but in the state of Arizona," explained Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers.
"I couldn't be more proud to be the mayor of the city that's done such an incredible job — if you look at 10 years ago and then look at today, it's almost a tale of two different cities with the same name," Weiers added.
The City of Glendale said it's expecting potentially 70,000 people each day to cram into State Farm Stadium for the concerts, which would be similar to Super Bowl attendance last month at the stadium.
Even if you’re not going to one of the highly anticipated shows, Swift’s imprint will be apparent throughout the city.
Glendale officials say freeway billboards will be lit up with festive messages and Westgate Entertainment District businesses will be offering themed menus and other fun events to celebrate.
"A lot of bars and restaurants in our area will be offering Taylor Swift-themed menu items," explains Jessica Mensch, a self-professed "Swiftie" who works for the City of Glendale. "The Lola will have themed cocktails. Lumberjaxes Axe Throwing bar will have specials for Swifties, so it's not just a party in the stadium — it's a party throughout our entire sports and entertainment district."
And the City of Glendale isn't done yet for major events, as the state's largest hotel is scheduled to open later this year, and the city will host the NCAA Final Four in 2024.
"I think as we keep adding things on and making people understand that the thought people had of being a hickville 40 years ago, we're not," said Weiers. "We're not. And I would put up anything we have in Glendale against any other city in the state and a lot of other states."
