Today
in Wilmington
Friday, February 27th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 27th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Lewis Greenhouse at New Hanover Arboretum hosts green socializing events to combat winter isolation and prepare plants for sales. The Hobby Greenhouse Tour is on March 7 and the Third Saturday Plant Sale is on March 21 at the Arboretum. Wilmington Star-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Actress Elaine Hendrix has been named the 2026 Queen Azalea by the North Carolina Azalea Festival and will be crowned April 8 at 3 p.m. aboard Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington. WWAY
- ➤ Wilmington chef Dean Neff from Seabird + Zora’s Market earned statewide honor on Feb. 23 when NCRLA presented him with the Ken Conrad Award for Service to the Community at the 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards. WECT
- ➤ Actress Elaine Hendrix will be crowned as the 2026 Queen Azalea at the 79th annual North Carolina Azalea Festival, held from April 8 through 12. She will be crowned on Wednesday, April 8 at 3 p.m. at Battleship North Carolina (a key festival venue) and join various events. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ On Feb. 24, Battleship North Carolina held a lecture honoring local Revolutionary War Black patriots — including Wilmington native Zachariah Jacobs, whose historical marker is set for March 26. The event highlighted the overlooked contributions of these local heroes. Wilmington Star-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The UNC Board of Governors increased in-state tuition for new undergraduate students by 3% for the 2026-2027 academic year, raising the average from $4,684 to $4,809 while current students and NC Promise schools face no change. The board also raised student fees by 1%, bringing annual tuition and fees to $7,644. FOX Wilmington
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Conservationists warn that proposed changes to go-slow rules could reduce protections for critically endangered North Atlantic right whales migrating near Wilmington. Federal officials plan to review vessel speed limits for large boats later this year (a change that could heighten risks for the whales) as scientists urge continued safeguards. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Over 1,000 trees will be given out March 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at Riegelwood Baptist Church by the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees. This effort in Columbus County is funded by a $25,000 Duke Energy Foundation grant, with up to two trees per household (first-come basis). WECT
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ March in Wilmington offers food events ranging from an oyster roast on March 1 at Tiburon Drive to a Mac and Cheese Festival in Leland and more fundraisers and tastings at local venues — check schedules for times and prices. Wilmington Star-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ On Thursday, Feb. 26, Wilmington-area high school teams competed in the NCHSAA playoffs with five local squads advancing. New Hanover and Hoggard’s teams will host quarterfinal matchups Saturday, Feb. 28 — key wins and comebacks marked the round. Wilmington Star-News
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Danny Gokey Concert with We Are Messengers and Jon Reddick
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Odell Williamson Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting performances that celebrate faith and community.
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Jack and Jill Rise & Run 5K
9 a.m. — Long Leaf Park — Registration fees apply — A heart-pounding 5K supporting children's education and advocacy in the Wilmington community.
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Hank, Pattie & The Current Concert
8-10 p.m. — Live At Ted’s — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy the melodic sounds of Hank, Pattie & The Current live in concert.
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Blue Ribbon Run
4:00 PM — Long Leaf Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a community run to raise awareness and funds for colorectal cancer research.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Impatience with actions, patience with results.
~ Naval Ravikant
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