Cheers Wilmington! We're back, helping you stay up to date with what's happening. Let's take on the day together! ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Wilmington Farmers Market and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What has 2 arms and a neck but no head? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. All the fall festivals in the Wilmington area you need to know for 2026 (cardinalpine.com) — Wilmington-area residents can look forward to a packed fall calendar of festivals across New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties, many right in downtown and nearby beaches. From American Craft Walk Wilmington and Fire in the Pines to Festival Latino, Cucalorus, and numerous food, music, and cultural events, nearly every weekend offers something to explore through Thanksgiving.
2. Wilmington motorcyclist killed in crash (starnewsonline.com subscription) — A 37-year-old Wilmington motorcyclist died after a multi-vehicle collision on Castle Hayne Road near I-140 on Sept. 1. State Highway Patrol investigators say the motorcycle lost control while turning off the interstate and was then struck by an SUV, with a passenger car hitting debris; no charges have been filed.
3. Phase 2 of ILM expansion enters final stretch with major projects opening in late 2026, early 2027 (wwaytv3.com) — If you fly in or out of Wilmington International Airport, expect big changes as Phase 2 of ILM's expansion nears completion, with a new parking garage opening by Thanksgiving and revamped roadways by spring 2027. Additional tunnels, an atrium, and cosmetic terminal upgrades aim to handle surging passenger numbers while keeping the airport's easygoing feel for Wilmington and Cape Fear travelers.
4. All American Marine delivers research vessel, the R/V Osprey (marinelog.com) — UNC Wilmington's new 78‑foot research vessel, the R/V Osprey, is heading to its home port in Wilmington, where it will support faculty, students, and partners on marine science missions along the East Coast. Equipped with advanced labs, survey gear, and space for overnight crews, the vessel will expand UNCW's ability to study ocean conditions, marine life, and coastal health for decades.
5. PokeKon-Fest to bring voice actor Mike Pollock, collectors to downtown Wilmington (wect.com) — Downtown Wilmington will host PokeKon-Fest on Saturday, Oct. 31 at Hotel Ballast, bringing Pokémon fans, collectors, and gamers together on the Cape Fear riverfront. Attendees can browse vendor tables, meet veteran voice actor Mike Pollock, and enjoy free parking, with discounted admission for kids under 11 when accompanied by an adult.
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Ok Wilmington! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A shirt (Thank you Dianna H. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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