Thursday, November 20th, 2025
Good morning, Wilmington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Good Shepherd Center is handing out 250 Thanksgiving turkey vouchers as part of its weekly Grocery Giveaway — vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. WECT
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ On Wednesday, sister companies Coastal Millwork Supply Co and Risley Padula Construction Inc held an open house at the new 68000 sqft facility at Blue Clay Business Park after investing over $10 million. Both companies, which currently employ over 100 people, plan to expand their workforce + the county is working with Wilmington Business Development to market parcels in the 120 acre park. WWAY
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Lower Cape Fear LifeCare announced the inaugural Jingle & Joy Gala that will feature a gourmet dinner, cocktails, live music and dancing — exclusive auctions are planned throughout the evening. WECT
- ➤ Coastal towns near Wilmington will host several holiday boat parades in late November and December. The events in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties will feature decorated boats and judging contests with prizes—inviting local residents to enjoy festive maritime celebrations. Wilmington Star-News
- ➤ The Cucalorus Film Festival began this week with a new film conference that lets filmmakers and creatives attend workshops on acting, stunts, and practical techniques—sessions include cold reading and equipment use, ending with a keynote by PBS filmmaker Byron Hurt. Tickets are available as full-conference passes or individual entries, with two free public events on Thursday discussing North Carolina's film industry. WWAY
- ➤ Airlie Gardens is nearly set to host the sold-out Enchanted Airlie event that will run November 28-29 and December 1-21, and ticket holders will take a self-guided tour through holiday lights and music. Wilmington Star-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ UNCW established the Jerry Wainwright Scholarship to honor its former men’s basketball coach, who led the team to conference titles and tournament appearances in the early 2000s — the scholarship will support future student-athletes. WECT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ New Hanover County has opened its online application for Economic Development Agency Funding that helps nonprofit groups improve the tax base and create jobs. Applicants must submit their forms by January 5 for fiscal year 26-27 budget review (details are on the county Finance webpage). New Hanover County
- ➤ Wilmington International Airport is hosting its first public workshop today at Snipes Academy at 5 p.m. on its FAA noise study that found 14 residences and one noise-sensitive site are in high noise zones near the runway. Officials said community feedback—gathered in person and online—will guide future noise reduction plans. WECT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Mary Nixon thanked first responders who saved her mother, Katherine Cooper, after a major stroke on Feb. 9, 2020 by giving them a plaque to show her gratitude. She is still searching for two EMS workers who helped that day so she can thank them as well. WECT
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Round 3 of the NCHSAA football playoffs kicks off Friday night with key matchups such as East Lincoln versus Crest and a local game where Hoggard will see wideout Desyn Durand—recently back from injury—lead the charge. Wilmington Star-News
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Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Hampton Inn Wilmington-University Area/Smith Creek Station — Materials included — Craft your own stunning Turkish mosaic lamp while enjoying Turkish delights and tea in a creative atmosphere.
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Wilmington Historic Half, 10K & 5K
7:00 AM — Riverfront Park — Registration fee required — Experience the scenic views and festive finish line after conquering historic downtown Wilmington.
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North Carolina Symphony - Handel's Messiah
3-6 p.m. — Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College — Tickets available — Experience the spectacular performance of Handel's Messiah by the North Carolina Symphony.
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Bryan Bielanski Live Performance
6 PM - 12 AM — Barzarre — Check venue for cover charge — Enjoy acoustic rock tunes from the talented Bryan Bielanski while savoring delicious tacos and drinks.
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Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl
4:30-9 p.m. — The Underfront Co. — Ticket required — Celebrate the holiday season in style with festive sweaters and fun activities downtown.
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Holly-Day Floral Design Class
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Current Coffee — Cost not listed — Learn the basics of floral design with local blooms in a cozy atmosphere.
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Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
4:30-5:30 p.m. — The Elia — Ticketed event — Enjoy a magical evening of Christmas carols performed by the Listeso String Quartet under the soft glow of candlelight.
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A Christmas Carol
2:30-4 p.m. — Kenan Auditorium — Tickets from $86 — Experience the classic tale of transformation and redemption this holiday season.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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