Today
in Wilmington
Friday, May 8th, 2026
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Good Shepherd Center is set to open The Sparrow, a 32-unit supportive housing community for chronically homeless residents with disabilities at 3939 Carolina Beach Road later this month. The project is funded by local partnerships and aims to house one-fifth of chronically homeless individuals, providing supportive services for permanent residency. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau held a travel rally breakfast at the Cameron Art Museum on May 6 to explore ideas for supporting tourism in the community. Local stakeholders shared insights to help attract more visitors. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ United Way for the Cape Fear Area is hosting Rock the Day at The Bend in Ogden on May 16 with live music from Oc3ans, Blue Footed Boobies, and Signal Fire plus food from local vendors. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and raises money for more than 40 nonprofit partners in the Cape Fear region. Port City Daily
- ➤ Wilmington will host a free disaster preparedness expo at the Skyline Center this Saturday, May 16, to help families get ready for hurricane season starting June 1—nonprofits will present interactive demonstrations, a kids zone, and limited preparedness kits. WECT
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Cornelius Harnett, a Wilmington politician who fought for American independence, is honored at an obelisk at Fourth + Market and his grave at St. James Episcopal Church, where visitors can learn of his historic legacy without any admission fee. Wilmington Star-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ On May 5 and Tuesday, the New Hanover County school board reviewed teacher workday options and updated public comment rules; board member Perry urged a legislative workday so teachers could show advocacy after the May 1 rally, with details to be addressed by the legislative committee (members had cost concerns). Port City Daily
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The WECT First Alert Weather team is sharing hurricane safety tips for the Atlantic season from June 1 to Nov. 30, including advice on risk, evacuation timing, and forecast interpretation (visit the WECT Hurricane Center for updates). WECT
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Local eateries showcase chef-driven burgers today, with options ranging from the Southern-style Trailer Park Burger at Winnie’s Tavern on 1895 Burnett Blvd to the Carolina Reaper smashburger at Grimmburger on 1113 Military Cutoff Road. Wilmington Star-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ USA TODAY Sports spotlighted top high school football players from the 910 in honor of America's 250th anniversary — including local standouts from New Hanover — and invites locals to share their picks for the greatest gridiron star. Residents from Wilmington to Fayetteville are encouraged to submit their entries. 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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.
~ Edgar Degas
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