Today
in Wilmington
Saturday, March 21st, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Nearly 300 local guests enjoyed casino gaming and a silent auction at Hotel Ballast during Raise the Ruff Casino Night, which raised just over $91,000 to support care for homeless dogs. Actor Trevor Donovan hosted the event that brought the community together. WWAY
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Kirk Englebright, once a mattress retailer, built Wilmington’s film studio Dark Horse Stages after his plan for a distribution center fell through during COVID. In 2023 he broke ground on new 20,000 sqft stages with Gov. Cooper attending, and his facility now hosts projects such as MrBeast’s film productions. FOX Wilmington
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Burgwin-Wright House, located at Third and Market streets, is hosting a craft market today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., an ongoing diaper drive through March, and a colonial tea walk re-enactment on March 26 (call the museum for registration details). FOX Wilmington
- ➤ Feast Wilmington returns next weekend at Riverfront Park with three events: Craft and Cuisine on Saturday, Pier Party later that day, and Brunch Elevated on Sunday. Local restaurants, breweries and beverage vendors will showcase Wilmington's culinary scene rain-or-shine. WWAY
- ➤ A 1960s-themed gala and lip sync battle will take place on April 17 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Brooklyn Arts Center to raise funds for Carousel Child Advocacy Center. The event features a red carpet reception (with hors d’oeuvres and desserts) and tickets from $125 to $15,000. FOX Wilmington
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Wilmington Fire Department is now accepting applications for its free spring Citizens Academy program that offers behind the scenes tours including a ride on the fire boat and hands on experiences with specialty tools. Classes will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. for four weeks starting May 7. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ The Wilmington Fire Department is accepting applications for its free spring Citizens Academy, offering behind-the-scenes tours, hands-on tool demos and rides on the fire boat and tower truck. The program meets Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. for four weeks starting May 7 and requires a background check. WECT
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Wilmington officials plan to replace a 59-year-old bulkhead near the Coast Guard Cutter Diligence site with a modern platform to better protect the shoreline. A public open house is set for Wednesday, Mar. 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Skyline Center Azalea Room (929 N. Front St.) FOX Wilmington
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Wilmington International Airport is providing weekly lunch for TSA workers and other federal employees amid federal shutdown funding issues. ILM urges the community to donate lunches or gift cards up to $25 — a measure meant to support essential workers. WECT
- ➤ Verizon says it will not cancel its planned cell node project along Caswell Beach Road despite town leaders hoping to scrap the installation at Caswell Beach. Town officials are now consulting a specialist to review changes to the poles’ design and placement. WECT
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Jax, a 3-year-old Foxhound with a gentle temperament and good with cats, is looking for his forever home at Monty’s Home. A meet and greet is scheduled on Sunday, March 29 from (2 to 4 p.m.) at the Monty’s Home Thrift Shop in Burgaw, where he will come with a crate, bed, harness, toys, and food. WECT
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ UNCW hosts Dayton in the NIT second round today at Trask Coliseum. Head Coach Siddle describes the game — an unbelievable opportunity — as historic with nearly 200 tickets remaining. WWAY
- ➤ A feature recounts eight Wilmington-area basketball players who shined during March Madness, detailing moments from Clarence Kea’s upset with Lamar to Michael Jordan’s early triumph with the Tar Heels. Wilmington Star-News
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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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Lucius Concert
7-10 PM — Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College — Ticket prices from $69 — Experience the captivating sounds of Lucius live in Wilmington.
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Easter Brunch Buffet
11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Bluewater Waterfront Grill — $50 Adults, $20 Kids — Celebrate Easter with a delicious waterfront brunch buffet featuring prime rib and grilled salmon.
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Mary's Art Explorers
10-11 a.m. — Friends School of Wilmington — $5 each — Enjoy a story time about frogs followed by a nature walk and craft making.
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Wilmington Grand Vendor Expo
9 a.m. — Carolina Beach State Park — Free entry — Explore local vendors and enjoy great deals and positive vibes.
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5th Annual Derby Day Soiree
2-7 p.m. — Smoke on the Water — Tickets available — Celebrate Kentucky Derby style with live music, celebrity guests, and stunning river views.
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Green Thumb Plant Social
5-7 p.m. — Tap Yard Wilmington — Free entry — Swap plants and tips while enjoying a fun bingo night with raffles and prizes.
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Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band
7-10 p.m. — Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of blues with the legendary Taj Mahal and his band.
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Piff the Magic Dragon Live Show
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College — Ticketed event — Experience the hilarious magic and comedy of Piff the Magic Dragon, a crowd favorite since America's Got Talent.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Time magnifies the margin between success and failure. It will multiply whatever you feed it.
~ James Clear
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