Today
in Wilmington
Sunday, April 12th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 12th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Carolina Beach Inlet Association hosted its 10th Carolina Beach Chowder Cook Off Saturday at Good Hops Brewing to raise funds to keep the inlet open. Eight local entries competed, with Renee Kohl winning Judge’s Choice and Best Presentation & Heather Senior taking People’s Choice. WECT
- ➤ The Carolina Beach Inlet Association hosted its 10th Carolina Beach Chowder Cook Off at Good Hops Brewing on Saturday (raising funds to keep the inlet open). Eight contestants competed as Renee Kohl earned Judge’s Choice and Best Presentation and Heather Senior won People’s Choice. FOX Wilmington
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Guests wore spring dresses and big hats at the 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Style event at Smoke on the Water today. Mayor Bill Saffo and linebacker Alex Highsmith celebrated the NC Azalea Festival and charities—Highsmith will be inducted into the Eugene Ashley High School Hall of Fame today. WWAY
- ➤ Thousands have gathered downtown for the Azalea Festival parade this weekend (bringing in visitors from across the region) as vibrant floats and local spirit mark the kickoff of the celebration. WECT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A recent ceremony for the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets was held aboard the historic Battleship North Carolina, offering a look at the organization's role and the ship's storied past. The event underscored a deep connection to local naval traditions. Wilmington Star-News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Wilmington-area legislators have opposed Fuquay-Varina's plan to divert water from the Cape Fear River to the Neuse basin — saying it will harm the local water supply and ecosystem. State officials will review public comments and decide later this summer. Wilmington Star-News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Southern Living often cites North Carolina attractions, and Worthly highlighted Brunswick County’s Bald Head Island as the only coastal getaway in its top 10 list. The island features maritime forests and historic sites like Old Baldy Lighthouse. Wilmington Star-News
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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.
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Dead on the Deck: The Deadtown Cosmonauts
2-6 p.m. — Katy's Grill and Bar — Free entry — Experience high-energy music inspired by the beaches of Wilmington, NC.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The goal is not to read more books. The goal is to gain more wisdom.
~ James Clear
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