Top news stories of 2021
As we prepare to enter the new year, we look back on 2021, a year full of attention grabbing headlines and stories we covered.
Community Kwanzaa event in Wilmington canceled
A week-long in-person event in Wilmington celebrating Kwanzaa has been canceled.
New market highlighting Black-owned businesses in Wilmington to be held in February
A new market in Wilmington showcasing minority small businesses will be held monthly, beginning next year.
Wilmington health experts weigh in on what to do next if you’ve tested positive for COVID-19
With numbers rising and CDC changing guidelines, many people are wondering what to do if they get a positive test result.
With numbers rising and CDC changing guidelines, many people are wondering what to do if they get a positive test result.
Annual holiday train expo in Wilmington rolls out with new creations
The model train society will be back at Independence Mall at the end of next month
The Cape Fear Model Train Society finished up its annual train expo after welcoming kids of all ages to see more than a dozen model trains made by local experts over the holidays.
Hundreds race to testing site, waiting hours for COVID-19 tests in short supply
Coronavirus cases spiking in the Cape Fear are leading to a mad dash for testing. Thursday, hundreds of cars lined up for hours at New Hanover County Health and Human Services for free rapid tests.
WFD encourages the public to remain cautious using fireworks to celebrate the New Year
The Wilmington Fire Departmentis asking residents to think twice before choosing to light up the night with fireworks to ring in the new year.
More than a dozen laws to go into effect in NC January 1, 2022
As we prepare to enter the new year, more than a dozen new laws will be going into effect statewide January 1, 2022. Some impact government officials, law enforcement, and the state health plan.
2021 Year in Review: Mass shooting, school shooting, child abuse among major crimes
In 2020, Wilmington saw a record-breaking 22 murders in one year. While violent crime went down in 2021, it was still a busy year for law enforcement.
In 2020, Wilmington saw a record-breaking 22 murders in one year. While violent crime went down in 2021, it was still a busy year for law enforcement.
Sheriff’s Office prepares for a new year after crime drops 17 percent
With 2021 at an end, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department is taking a look back to prepare for the year ahead.
COVID-19 outbreak shuts down local musical days before opening night
Instead of cast getting ready for opening night, Opera House Theater Company is filled with empty chairs and empty tables after a COVID-19 outbreak postponed Footloose the musical.
Warm weather leads to increase in snake sightings during the winter
Across the Cape Fear, the warmer temps are drawing out some animals that usually limit their time wandering around during the winter season, like snakes.
Woman shares concerns after wreath removed from parents’ grave in Burgaw Cemetery
One woman is expressing concerns after a wreath was removed from her loved one’s gravesite, hoping to bring awareness of possible thefts to others.
Mom to Mom: Ringing in the New Year with DIY Confetti Popper
The final count down of 2021 is on with just days to go until we ring in the New Year, which means it’s time to get ready to celebrate.
What are you doing New Year’s Eve?: How to ring in the New Year safely
With COVID levels spiking after the holidays and New Year’s Eve on it’s way, many are having to make tough decisions when it comes to ringing in the new year.
New Hanover County to adopt CDC’s shortened quarantine recommendations
New Hanover County has adopted the CDC’s updated recommendations for shortened isolation and quarantine times.
Pet Pals: 5 Year-old Tabby Cat is in need of a new home
NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY) — This week’s Pet Pal is a 5-year-old gray Tabby cat.
Locals struggle to find COVID-19 tests and appointments
With COVID-19 levels rising across the country and more people traveling for the holidays, the demand for COVID tests has shot up.
North Carolina band director to march in the Rose Bowl
In just a few days, a North Carolinian band director will represent the state the best way he knows how: marching in the Rose Bowl Parade.
NORAD tracks Santa Claus as he delivers gifts around the world
Santa is on the move. And with the help of the U.S. Military, you can keep tabs on him as he makes his rounds.
Hundreds attend local Christmas Eve services
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — It’s Christmas Eve, and around the Cape Fear folks are celebrating with beloved holiday traditions. One of the most common? Christmas Eve church services. Friday evening, First Baptist Church of Wilmington was among the hundreds of local houses of worship to hold a Christmas Eve service. This was the first time since the pandemic they’ve held…
Local pastor speaks on celebrating Christmas after losing four loved ones to COVID-19
While people across country are eager to get together for the holiday, many are feeling grief this holiday because of the effects of COVID-19. A Leland pastor shared how he and his family are coping this Christmas after losing 4 family members this year to COVID-19.
Many people make last minute purchases at ABC stores on Christmas Eve
With many people in high spirits with Christmas tomorrow, some are running to the ABC Store hoping to buy some extra spirits.
Holiday travel expected to rebound from last year with millions of people traveling
Millions across the country are hitting the roads to see friends and family for the holidays, with experts expecting travel to rebound after last year’s decline.