**Southern Pines, North Carolina**
**Population:** 16,444 (2020 Census)
**Culture:**
* Southern Pines is a charming town with a vibrant arts and culture scene.
* The town hosts several annual events, including the Southern Pines Literary Festival, the Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance, and the Southern Pines Food & Wine Festival.
* There are numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters in the area.
**Special Events:**
* Southern Pines Literary Festival (February)
* Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance (May)
* Southern Pines Food & Wine Festival (October)
* Christmas in Southern Pines (December)
**Local Attractions:**
* Pinehurst Resort: A world-renowned golf resort with eight championship courses.
* Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve: A 1,000-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, a lake, and a bird sanctuary.
* Southern Pines Greenway: A 12-mile paved trail for walking, running, and biking.
* Sandhills Horticultural Gardens: A 27-acre botanical garden with a variety of plants and flowers.
**Food:**
* Southern Pines has a diverse culinary scene with restaurants offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
* Some popular local dishes include fried chicken, pulled pork, and shrimp and grits.
* The town is also home to several award-winning breweries and wineries.
**People:**
* The people of Southern Pines are known for their friendliness and hospitality.
* The town has a strong sense of community and is home to many active volunteers.
* Southern Pines is a popular destination for retirees and families alike.
**History:**
* Southern Pines was founded in 1885 as a resort town for wealthy Northerners.
* The town grew rapidly in the early 20th century, thanks to the popularity of golf in the area.
* Southern Pines has a rich history and is home to several historic buildings and landmarks.
**Other Notable Information:**
* Southern Pines is located in the Sandhills region of North Carolina, known for its rolling hills and pine forests.
* The town has a mild climate with warm summers and cool winters.
* Southern Pines is home to several prestigious private schools, including The O'Neal School and The Village School.
* The town is also a popular destination for equestrian sports, with several horse farms and riding trails in the area.