Today
in Wilmington
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Wilmington City Council unanimously voted to rename the Greenfield Grind Skate Park as Alec Chambers Skate Park in honor of the local skater killed in December 2025 by an impaired driver — over 50 community members supported the change, and officials plan a naming ceremony and park cleanup soon. Port City Daily
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Cinematique returns to Wilmington with classic film screenings and community discussions. Opening night is Friday, Apr. 24 at Jengo’s Playhouse with Citizen Kane and a discussion led by Todd Berliner (UNC Wilmington), with additional sessions scheduled through August. WWAY
- ➤ Elaine Hendrix was named Queen Azalea at the North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington today when residents and city leaders gathered to celebrate. Known for her role in The Parent Trap (and Dancing with the Stars), she vows to embody joy and inspiration during the festival. WECT
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Severe drought conditions are affecting local farmers at Humphrey Farms in Burgaw; if the dry trend continues, growers may face higher production costs + grocery prices could rise. WECT
- ➤ After a ceasefire was announced on April 7 following a 38-day conflict, gas prices in Wilmington held at $3.976 per gallon on April 8. Experts say prices may drop by a few cents every day in 1 to 2 weeks as the Strait of Hormuz nears reopening. Wilmington Star-News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Critics say Fuquay-Varina’s request to draw millions of gallons from the Cape Fear River may threaten drinking water for nearly one million residents. Lawmakers and local councils have filed objections — and state officials are reviewing comments with a report expected by late summer. WWAY
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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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Summer Music Series - May
5-8 p.m. — Bluewater Waterfront Grill — Free entry — Come rock the dock with live music and waterfront views every Sunday this May.
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Tiffany & Tea Event
5:30-8:30 p.m. — Azalea Antiques & Art — Free entry — Experience an elegant evening with fine tea, select wines, and curated charcuterie alongside sisterhood.
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 smaller the change, the easier it is to stick to.
~ James Clear
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