- Groundbreaking ceremonies are usually conducted several months before actual construction begins. They are typically done following verification of funding of the construction project. These types of ceremonies may be done for brand-new construction projects or for major addition projects, such as the new wing of a hospital.
- The major participants at a groundbreaking ceremony usually stand on a dais, a raised platform. This group is then referred to as "the dais." The people on the dais typically include the ceremony host, city mayor, facility head or district supervisor, program director and regional or deputy director. Other major participants may include any former facility or district supervisors, legislators and community leaders who provided financial donations or legislative support for the project.
- The proper protocol for a groundbreaking ceremony program typically begins with introductions of the dais. Honored donors and special guests make brief remarks about the project at this time. The director and/or community leader then speaks, and the highest-ranking legislator speaks last. The groundbreaking host then directs guests to the groundbreaking location. All members of the dais dig into the ground with shovels at the same time. A group photo of the dais and reception usually follows the groundbreaking.
- Most groundbreaking ceremonies utilize special shovels to commemorate the event. The shovels may be painted gold and display labels or plaques with the construction project title and date.
- Each groundbreaking ceremony has different rituals, depending on the project. For example, some people include a ribbon cutting before the groundbreaking ritual. Many ceremonies include toasts, blessings or prayers, especially if the construction project is religious in nature. Other ceremonies break a glass to commemorate the occasion. Many groups have live music, often featuring local jazz ensembles or choirs at the event.
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