Raising the Roof: Celebrating the Journey from Dirt to Done
- CREA
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
In construction and development, there’s a rhythm to progress—and with it, a series of traditions, celebrations, and even superstitions that mark each milestone along the way. Much like the rituals of sports, these moments bring people together to honor the journey from vision to reality. From the first shovel in the ground to the final punch list, here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate the path to opening day:
Property Milestones Worth Celebrating
We never miss a chance to celebrate progress—and thankfully, the development process offers several meaningful moments to do just that.
Groundbreaking
The official start of construction is marked with a Groundbreaking Ceremony, where partners, public officials, and community members gather to build excitement for what’s to come.
Tradition: Shovels in hand, partners line up to ceremonially “break ground,” symbolizing the beginning of the build.
Variation: Some projects opt for a “first brick” or “first nail” ceremony to kick off construction in a similarly symbolic way.
Ribbon-Cutting & Grand Opening
Once construction is complete, it’s time to open the doors and welcome the community to see the finished product.
Tradition: A large ribbon is cut - often with oversized scissors or by multiple stakeholders - to mark the official opening.
Blessing Ceremonies
In culturally or spiritually significant areas—such as Hawaii or Native American lands—blessings are often held to honor the land and the people it will serve.
Tradition: These ceremonies vary by community and may include spiritual blessings, holy water, or rituals invoking protection and goodwill.
Signing the Beam
Grab a marker - it’s time to leave your mark. Signing the final or highest beam before it’s lifted into place is a beloved tradition.
Tradition: Partners, workers, and stakeholders sign their names, add logos, or write messages on the beam, celebrating teamwork and commemorating the milestone.
Variation: Some also write messages inside the walls or on the framing before it’s covered, leaving a hidden legacy within the building itself.
These traditions aren’t just ceremonial, they’re a way to honor the people, partnerships, and purpose behind every project. From dirt to done, each step is a story worth celebrating.
