Today
in Wilmington
Monday, March 30th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 30th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ On Sunday, Pilots to the Rescue flew six shelter dogs from Odell Williamson Airport in Ocean Isle Beach to adoption centers in New Jersey+ boosting their chances for a new home. The nonprofit, which has rescued more than 6,000 animals, continues helping at-risk pets. WWAY
- ➤ Nonprofit Save Sledge Forest (a local group) hosted a river cruise fundraiser on the Northeast Cape Fear River, uniting community members to support forestry initiatives. Wilmington Star-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Azalea Festival coin show, presented by the Lower Cape Fear Coin Club, will be held at the Elks Lodge at 5102 Oleander Drive on April 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and April 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring free appraisals, a Kids Korner, and raffles for Gold and Silver American Eagle Coins. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Residents can explore a photo exhibit at Cape Fear Museum featuring rare images of the NC Azalea Festival in the 1950s. The collection highlights iconic local moments with notable figures (including Debra Paget and future President Ronald Reagan). Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Local churches held Palm Sunday on March 29 and will host Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday services on April 2, 3, and 5 respectively. Holy Week is a time of reflection and community renewal (celebrating key moments in the Christian calendar). Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Wilmington's concert season kicks off in April with shows at venues like Live Oak Bank Pavilion, Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, and Bowstring Burgers + Brewyard. Popular acts including jazz and classical guitarist Richard Smith and Willie Nelson and Family offer diverse sounds through April 28. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ The free, multi-day Azalea Festival Street Fair will run from April 10-12 on Front Street, featuring a children's area with bounce houses, live performances, a beer garden at N. Front St and fireworks on Saturday evening. Street parking is free though some spaces will be blocked during the parade. Wilmington Star-News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A statewide burn ban is now in effect to curb wildfire risks after a brush fire along N.C. 179 in Ocean Isle Beach broke out Saturday and was contained. Officials advise residents to keep water sources handy, maintain yard equipment, and call 911 if they see smoke. WWAY
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ UNCW head volleyball coach Lo Hoyer was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer last November and has completed five high dose chemotherapy sessions with her final session scheduled for Wednesday. She remains committed to coaching the Seahawks and will continue with low dose treatments during the 2026 season. WWAY
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Horse trainer Lauryn Zepeda broke a Guinness World Record before today as she celebrated her lifelong bond with horses; she said trust between trainer and horse has been key to her success (reflecting years of dedication). WECT
-
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.
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Wilmington Dance Festival
7:30-10:00 p.m. — Kenan Auditorium — $35 — Experience an inspiring showcase of ballet, contemporary, and modern dance featuring local talent and guest artists.
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Lagerfest 2026
1-5 p.m. — Wrightsville Beach Brewery — $25 for tasting glass and unlimited sampling — Celebrate local lagers with live music and food options.
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
The greatest teacher is your last mistake.
~ Ryan Holiday
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