While Newell played a custom Hard Rock guitar, fireworks and pyrotechnics "blew open" the gates of the park, signaling to guests of all ages that this destination is officially open and ready to rock their worlds. Says Newell: "The people at Hard Rock Park have been amazing to Sister Hazel and the ceremony was incredible. I just feel lucky to have been a part of such a historical moment!"

After Sister Hazel played a private concert for the park's investors and executives on June 1st, Hard Rock Park's two-day Grand Opening Extravaganza kicked off June 2nd with the "Save the Planet Invitational," a star-studded celebrity golf tournament in which a number of artists participated, including Darryl (DMC) McDaniels, Edwin McCain, and band members of ZZ Top, Aerosmith, Cheap Trick and Sister Hazel (Jett Beres and Drew Copeland). After the gate opening ceremony later that day, the Eagles performed at the park. The festivities continued on June 3rd with a live performance from The Moody Blues, accompanied by Myrtle Beach's Long Bay Symphony orchestra.