Today
in Wilmington
Thursday, April 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of April.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Today, Jessica Holt from U.S. Cellular and T-Mobile explained how residents can boost smartphone performance by deleting old files, photos, and apps during a local studio session (a digital refresh tip). WECT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ New H.O.P.E. CDC applied to start a tuition-free all-boys charter school (New Hope Technology Preparatory Academy) serving grades 9-12 and offering a two-year college credential pathway. Community sessions will be held today at 6:30 p.m. at 920 N. 6th St. in Wilmington, and if approved, the school will open in fall. WECT
- ➤ Smart Start of New Hanover County announced the nominees for the 2026 Children’s Champion Awards — including educators, social workers, advocates and community leaders who support early childhood — and the awards event will be held Tuesday, Apr. 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Plaza on Princess in Wilmington. FOX Wilmington
- ➤ New H.O.P.E. CDC applied for New Hope Technology Preparatory Academy (NHTPA), a tuition-free all boys school for grades 9-12 with a two year college track. Community forums are today at 6:30 p.m. at 920 N. 6th St and on April 9 and 16; the school will open in fall 2028. FOX Wilmington
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ During a virtual hearing Wednesday, customers opposed Duke Energy's 18% rate hike saying it would hurt fixed incomes. Two more hearings are set for April 6 in Snow’s Hill and April 13 in Roxboro before the Commission decides in the fall. WECT
- ➤ New Hanover County is accepting applications for its sixth Mental Health Fellows Program to support local mental health services. The county advises eligible candidates to apply soon (check local county communications for details). WECT
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Construction continues on Leland Village shopping center (a 131,795 sqft development at the intersection of U.S. 17 and proposed Kingsbridge Road) in Leland, which will house Publix, Marshalls and Ulta Beauty as Branch Properties advances plans for its opening. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Construction has started on Leland Village, a Publix-centered shopping center at the intersection of U.S. 17 and proposed Kingsbridge Road. The 131,795 sqft project will house Marshalls, Ulta Beauty, and other shops, with openings expected about 14 months after groundbreaking. Wilmington Star-News
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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.
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