Taylor Swift’s recent three-night extravaganza in Vancouver didn’t just make headlines—it made history. With a staggering $157 million in economic impact and $27 million in tax revenue, her Eras Tour proved to be more than a cultural phenomenon; it was a fiscal windfall. The numbers are dazzling, much like the star herself, and they underline how entertainment can transform cities into thriving economic ecosystems.
But let’s take a moment to step off the red carpet and into the rugged boots of another economic powerhouse—British Columbia’s resource sector. Specifically, mining. Being from Tumbler Ridge, mining has been a part of my life in one form or another, for the past 35 years.
While Taylor’s sold-out arenas may be the talk of the town, BC’s mining industry has quietly shaped the province’s economy for over a century. It’s not glamorous work, nor does it inspire catchy hashtags, but the sector generates $18 billion annually in economic impact and contributes $2.6 billion to provincial tax revenues each year. That’s more than 100 times the tax revenue from Swift’s tour—every single year.
So what does this mean for British Columbians? Schools, hospitals, small business ,roads, and bridges—all the essentials that keep communities functioning—owe much of their funding to industries like mining. It’s the foundation that enables our province to support the spotlight moments, like hosting one of the world’s most celebrated artists.
The comparison isn’t a battle for supremacy; it’s about perspective. Taylor Swift’s tour is a vivid illustration of how BC can shine as a cultural and entertainment hub, drawing global attention and dollars. But the ability to host such events depends on the stability and resources provided by foundational industries like mining. Without the miners, engineers, and tradespeople building the backbone of our economy, the glitter of the entertainment world would be far less sustainable.
Think of it this way: Taylor Swift’s tour brought the fireworks, but it’s BC’s mining industry that builds the stage, literally and figuratively. It ensures the power grid stays on, the stadiums are structurally sound, and the transportation systems can handle the influx of fans. The taxes it generates support the public services that make cities livable and events possible.
So while we cheer for the economic boom that came with Taylor’s visit, let’s not forget the quiet, consistent contributions of the resource sector. It’s the grit behind the glamour, the steady force ensuring that BC can host global stars while maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.
Because in British Columbia, it’s not a choice between the sparkle of pop stardom and the strength of industry—it’s always been about celebrating how they work together to create a province that can dazzle the world, while staying grounded in what really matters.
