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.
9. The first dinner at Chuter Ede County Secondary School
Pupils waiting for their first dinner in the dinin room at Chuter Ede County Secondary School, which opened January 1968. Can you spot anyone you know? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette
10. Franchi's new bar
Back to November 1966 for this photo showing Franchi's new bar which opened at Wouldhave House in the Market Place. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette
11. A star appearance in 1964
Actress Pat Phoenix, who played Elsie Tanner in Coronation Street, cuts the tape to officially open Top Clothing Store in King Street. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette
12. A big day at Biddick Hall Junior School
Practising for the big day are pupils of Biddick Hall Junior School Choir, who sang at the official opening of the school in 1958. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Shields Gazette