Thursday, May 7th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Children's Museum of Wilmington will host Family Farm Day on Saturday, May 16, with a pop-up petting zoo featuring chicks, bunnies, and goats along with farm crafts, games, and dance activities. Tickets will be $5 for members and $15 for non-members, available in advance online. WWAY
- ➤ The Cape Fear Optimist Club submitted plans to expand its field with an 18,000 sqft multipurpose building and artificial turf. Officials say the project will upgrade local facilities for community events. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ Foodbank of Central + Eastern NC is hosting a free 'Let’s Keep Growing Together' event on May 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1000 Greenfield St. The event offers food, live music, kids activities, free gardening kits and fresh food distribution with matching via Fresh Bucks. FOX Wilmington
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A former Wilmington resident has been named a Pulitzer Prize winner in arts after the prizes were announced this week. The honor spotlights the author's ties to southeastern North Carolina and brings local pride. WECT
- ➤ Cameron Art Museum and Cucalorus launch a film series called CAM at the Movies using film screenings and live discussions with local cultural leaders. The series begins June 26 at Jengo’s Playhouse in the Soda Pop District and will feature exhibitions tied to local stories. WWAY
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ New Hanover County tourism officials expect a strong summer despite higher gas prices—spring has been strong at the Wilmington and Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau with increased room tax revenue and summer bookings. The agency highlights free attractions like the riverwalk and beaches. WECT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ UNCW graduates will start ceremonies Friday and Saturday while many face a tough job market after sending out hundreds of applications — career experts say more than 80 percent typically secure work within six months and urge students to seek guidance. WWAY
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Today, the Leapfrog Group released its spring report on local hospitals and rated Novant New Hanover Regional with its fourth consecutive C grade — citing ongoing staff communication issues — while Brunswick Medical Center improved to an A. WECT
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The North Carolina High School Athletic Association officially sanctioned girls flag football for a state championship starting this fall — the board voted 9 to 8 and teams like Ashley High School that led recent competitions will compete under the new rules. WECT
- ➤ On May 6, the Hoggard girls soccer team swept the conference with a 3-0 win over Ashley, marking their first sweep since 2022 and extending a 15-game win streak. Ranked No. 2, the Vikings will enter the NCHSAA 8A playoffs on May 11, aiming for their first state title. 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
Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.
~ Carl Jung
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