Grand opening
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A Grand opening is a term used to describe the initial opening of a facility. Frequently there is a ribbon cutting ceremony where an oversized pair of scissors are used to cut an oversized ribbon to officially open for business.
These are frequently used when opening a business establishment. When doing so they are usually accompanied by special sales or other promotions and giveaways. These openings may also be accompanied by attention getting displays like searchlights lighting up the night sky or a fireworks display. When available a radio station is invited out to promote the restaurant with a live "on-site" broadcast. If the business has any recognizable (and in some cases, not so recognizable) mascots, they will generally appear at the Grand Opening. Ex: Ronald McDonald often appears at the Grand Opening of McDonald's restaurants.
The Grand opening may not be the first time the establishment opens. In many cases a soft opening occurs before the grand opening to allow the staff to become familiar with the establishment and how to operate the equipment contained within. This is very common within restaurants and the Grand opening is generally one month after the initial soft opening.
In some cases, the grand opening may be a special event for invited guests. This, also, is very common for restaurants.