Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 3rd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Wilmington held its first public input event for a 25-acre park off Greenville Loop Road, where residents shared ideas including trails and water features. City leaders will use the feedback to hire a design consultant this summer (with construction expected to roll out over the next five years). FOX Wilmington
- ➤ Fit For Fun Center in Wilmington is replacing its outdoor playground with an inclusive design that caters to all children — work is underway to finish the project soon. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Wet Bucket Tattoo in Sneads Ferry hosted a flash tattoo and piercing fundraiser for survivors, with proceeds benefiting the Onslow Victim Center. Attendees could support the cause by getting inked, purchasing shirts, or donating. WWAY
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Today, thousands attend Surf City Ocean Fest in Wilmington despite the rain. The festival brings live music, food vendors, a surf contest, a 5K, beach yoga and about 55 eco-friendly vendors — event director Liz Trojan said funds raised will support local groups promoting sustainability. WECT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Ashley High School students celebrated their masquerade prom on May 2 at Hotel Ballast in Wilmington — DJ Woody provided music as they danced the night away. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ New Hanover High School held its prom at Terraces on Sir Tyler on May 2 + students danced and celebrated a special night + marking an important milestone for the school. Wilmington Star-News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Nurse Morgan Freeman turned down a full ride biomedical engineering scholarship to study nursing and pediatric care. She now builds her career in local health care and has never regretted her choice. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Pender County opened its new Health and Human Services facility at 298 Progress Drive in Burgaw in April — a 75,000 sqft building designed by Bobbitt — that unites the health department and social services while offering spacious visitation areas, a playground for children, and staff training spaces. Wilmington Star-News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ When In Your State recently called Southport a day-tripper’s dream — listing seven ways to enjoy downtown walks, waterfront views, and historic sites — visitors can explore Brunswick County’s coastal charm. Wilmington Star-News
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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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John Crist Live Performance
7-10 p.m. — Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College — Tickets vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with one of today’s fastest-rising stand-up comedians.
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Benny Hill Jazz Quartet Concert
7:30-8:30 p.m. — Music on Market — Free entry — Enjoy an electrifying performance by the acclaimed Benny Hill Jazz Quartet featuring vibrant saxophone improvisations.
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Earth with Wind & Fire Concert
8:30-11:30 p.m. — Live Oak Bank Pavilion — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful rhythms of Earth, Wind & Fire at this lively outdoor concert.
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Coastal Entrepreneurship Awards
6-9 p.m. — UNCW Burney Center — Recognizing local innovation — Celebrate emerging and established businesses in the Cape Fear region.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Today in Wilmington
Welcome to the Today in Wilmington, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Wilmington, North Carolina community. If you like the Today in Wilmington, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Wilmington.
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