A chance to celebrate their success, reflect on other businesses achievements and hopefully to pick up a coveted award.

Tonight, November 2, is the gala evening for the 2020 Illawarra and South Coast Local Business Awards.

Dressed in their best, business leaders will arrive at The Fraternity Club for an evening of great food and entertainment.

Read the full Illawarra Mercury wrap here

Awards founder and Precedent Productions managing director Steve Loe said the awards presentation was always a popular and exciting event.

"The presentation evening is an opportunity for finalists to celebrate with their colleagues and friends as well as connect with people from other businesses," he said.

The night of nights rivals Hollywood red carpet events as glittering frocks and sensational suits are all part of the glamour of the annual awards.

The MC for the evening will be Paul Hancock, who will be returning for his 10^th year at the awards.

Attendees will also be entertained by Monique Montez, Aaron Tsindos and Stefanie Jones.

"There is always an excited buzz in the air as the night gets started, that reaches a fever pitch as the award winners are announced," Mr Loe said.

Awards will be presented to winners in 29 categories that include: Fresh Food, Sole Operator, New Business, Cafe, Specialised Business, Florist, Education Service, Real Estate Agency and Dance Studio.

There will also be three major awards up for grabs: Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year and the Youth Award.

Mr Loe said, "I would like to thank the Illawarra and South Coast community for the huge support that they continue to show for their local businesses through the Awards every year."

Good luck to all the finalists.