And it often means big crowds gathering to see what all the fuss is about.
But were you in the picture at one of these South Tyneside openings over the years and what do you remember of the occasion?
Take a look through our selection of 13 retro photos and tell us more.
5. Another 2015 opening
Hebburn Central is officially unveiled and all these children were there to see it. Recognise anyone you know? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Stu Norton
6. Back to 2011
The opening of the the new Childrens Society shop on Prince Edward Road. Remember this from nine years ago? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: TIM RICHARDSON
7. That's a cool photo from 1988
Elizabeth and Albert Wright of Julian St, were the winners of a music centre prize in a free draw to celebrate the opening of the new Iceflow shop, in King Street. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette
8. The opening of the Denmark Centre
Take a look at this scene from July 1984. It shows Redwell Comprehensive School brass wind band at the opening of the Denmark Centre. Were you there? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette