Cherry Hill High School East seniors spread blankets across the football turf before dawn Friday, Sept. 4, for the annual Senior Sunrise.

The 45-minute gathering ran from 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. and brought Class of 2027 members together for photos, snacks and a first look at their class T-shirts, Eastside, the school's student newspaper, reported.

A Dunkin' truck parked near the field handed out drinks and $5 gift cards. Bagels from Manhattan Bagel and other snacks were provided by the Cherry Hill East PTA and local businesses. Teachers distributed Class of 2027 T-shirts at the entrance to students who had purchased them.

"We're officially getting started, and college apps are in full swing," senior Siddhi Poddar told Eastside. "It's a celebration of what we've accomplished so far."

Classmate Madison Shepherd said the event brought together students who normally stick to their own circles, calling it a chance to start senior year alongside new people and the friends they grew up with.

The tradition has a bookend. At the end of the school year, the Class of 2027 will return to the same field for Senior Sunset to sign yearbooks and take photos.