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Grandfather Mountain hosting 'Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge' event to ring in 2024

Tickets also include an entire day's access to Grandfather Mountain once the park's normal hours start at 9 a.m.

LINVILLE, N.C. — Many people associate ringing in a new year with New Year's Eve parties and toasts at midnight, but what about the first sunrise of the new year? 

Grandfather Mountain is hosting a "Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge" event on Jan. 1. 

“Witnessing a sunrise at Grandfather Mountain, especially with panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, is nothing short of spectacular,” Margaret Thiele, vice president of development for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, said in a news release.

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The event is taking place before regular operating hours for the not-for-profit nature park, so those in attendance get a rare chance to see the views as the day begins. Sunrise is expected to be at 7:38 a.m., and the park gates will open a little over an hour earlier at 6:30 a.m. 

Credit: Photo Courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation / Leslie Restivo

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation notes a "picture-perfect sunrise" can't be guaranteed, and the event may be canceled in case of inclement weather. It'll likely be cold that morning, so guests will be able to warm up with a complimentary hot beverage bar and doughnuts as they wait for the sunrise. 

“Grandfather is pretty magical in the winter and is a great place for families to spend this holiday," Thiele said. 

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The event is limited to 150 guests and is ticketed. 

Tickets include an entire day's access to Grandfather Mountain once the park's normal hours start at 9 a.m. General admission tickets are $50, children's tickets for those age 4 through 12 are $35, and Grandfather Mountain's Bridge Club members can get tickets for $25. 

Tickets go on sale next Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m.

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