Saying she was deeply touched that her fans have "created traditions" amid a "mass movement of joy" ... TS noted she was in awe of how iconic friendship bracelets had become among them.

“I just showed up one day and you guys were trading friendship bracelets ... and I was like ‘that’s cool’ and now there is a giant friendship bracelet on the outside of this stadium."

Needless to say ... the sold-out arena went bonkers over the love ... and nearly drowned her out with cheers, she was trying to ask how many had seen her in person prior.

Swifties have been trading handmade friendship bracelets ... a staple of the "Eras" tour ... since it kicked off in March 2023.

The bracelets have become a telltale sign of the global fandom ... sported by Hollywood stars and politicians alike.