Click here to view the 2021 winners magazine.
Click here to view photos from the 2021 awards.
Business & Professional Services
Best in Show: The Sunrise Theater
Based on the popular vote, there’s a high chance that you’re familiar with the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines, a true gem in our community. This year, the Sunrise Theater claimed a total of five Best of the Pines awards, including four first-place finishes: Best Family Fun Night (for First Friday), Best Community Music Venue (First Bank Amphitheater), Best Place to Watch a Movie, and Best Place to Give Your Time or Money (specifically in the Arts). When COVID struck in 2020, the Sunrise had to close its theater doors to the public for seven months and cancel the entire First Friday season, but they still found ways to entertain. The Sunrise began streaming movies virtually, showing classic films outdoors, selling concessions to-go, and hosting a new monthly pop-up market featuring local vendors. We – and our voters – applaud the Sunrise Theater for their innovations, perseverance, and continued contributions to our community, and are proud to honor them as Best in Show for 2021.