A Destination

The Ritz Center offers the perfect setting for couples searching for a unique event center with charm and an intimate feel. The historic Ritz Theater, after a thoughtful and modern renovation, has been transformed into the perfect wedding party and reception venue known as the The Ritz Center.

Located at 213 Hickman Road in Tabor City, the Ritz Center is the perfect location for wedding parties, receptions, corporate, political and community events. Newlyweds will long cherish the memory of celebrating their wedding day with family and friends in this one-of-a-kind, convenient location.

Dianne Nobles Ward manages the Ritz and is happy to show you all the amenities at a very reasonable price. It's easy to set up an appointment to visit. Just use the Reserve or Contact page for more information.

A true "Jewel" of Columbus County and Tabor City, make the Ritz Center a perfect destination for all your events. Dianne will help you plan the perfect event suited to your needs and vision for your special day.

An event at the Ritz is an exciting way to celebrate and have lasting memories

The Ritz has been the host to many events since opening in June of 2014. The rectangular space is flexible enough to hold a wide variety of event types. There is a catering kitchen in the rear and  new bathroom facilities. Take a look at some of photos taken at various events. Please Contact us if you need more specific information. You can also view you a floor plan on the Reserve page to help you visualize planning your event.

Unfortunately, not many historical Ritz photographs of the old movie theater exist, but the memories of times spent there are burned into the fond memories of generations. The Ritz Theater was built in 1929 by Joe Anderson and served as a movie theater until January 17, 1979. The last movie shown in the theater was "Buffalo River".

The mid 1970's saw the proliferation of multi screen movie houses while royalty rates skyrocketed. The industry was after big profits and the advent of the summer 'blockbuster', with movies such as Jaws and Star Wars, required large audiences to break even. The Ritz Theater was unable to compete andmeet these demands due to licensing, equipment costs and low attendance. Sadly the Ritz finally closed it's doors in 1979. Over time the building fell into disrepair from decades of neglect. 

Over these decades, many had dreams of what the Ritz could become and were passionate about making sure it was preserved.  A team was formed by the Town of Tabor City in 2012 to pursue this project. Clearly, the most beneficial use of the space would be as a flexible event center. A major federal grant was applied for and fund raising activities generated contributions from loyal citizens. This influx of funds began to make the dream of restoring The Ritz a reality!!!!! Between 2013 and 2014, and three phases of fund raising, the goals and designs finally converged to complete the Ritz Center. The result is Tabor City's Crown Jewel "The Ritz Center". 

Classic car photos provided by Lori Leigh Photography.

Ritz Progression Video