(West Des Moines, IA) -- Dozens of fans lined up outside the Target on Mills Civic Parkway Thursday night for the midnight release of Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated new album, Life of a Show Girl. The West Des Moines store was one of 500 Target locations nationwide that stayed open until 1 A.M. to celebrate the launch.
The line opened at 10 P.M., and by 10:30, the store was packed with eager Swifties ready to grab exclusive merchandise and limited-edition copies of the album.
“Taylor Swift, her new album comes out tonight. I have to be at work by 5:30 in the morning, so I’m going to be exhausted tomorrow, but I’ll do it,” said Tracey Boltlin.
Fans celebrated in their own unique ways. Some handed out friendship bracelets, others sang Swift’s greatest hits, and one family even brought a speaker to stream the album when it dropped at 11 P.M. Cakes were shared, and conversations buzzed about Swift’s upcoming movie release. Swifties came in era themed outfits, and some even made their own t-shirts to celebrate the event.
In addition to the album, Swift is also releasing a music video for the song The Fate of Ophelia, which will premiere exclusively in theaters. Many fans had already secured tickets, planning to follow up the album release with a trip to the big screen.
“This one’s been singing Taylor Swift to me since I was one,” said Ellie Baldwin.
“Since she was a newborn. So yes, she’s grown up, and I’ve grown my own mini Swiftie,” added her mom, Lacey Baldwin.
Fans had their pick of a Target-exclusive vinyl and three different CD variants, making the night a true celebration of Swift’s latest era.