Good morning, Wilmington.

Due to an excessive heat warning, officials are canceling some July 4 events.

Bethany Beach canceled its Independence Day Parade, local parades and the FIFA Fan Festival have shortened routes and adjusted schedules, and the Delaware Symphony Orchestra concert moved indoors to The Chase Center, starting at 7:30 p.m.

Lawmakers approved several education bills early Wednesday that will change school funding and tax practices.

One bill will let the state use a new hybrid funding model (pending Gov. Meyer's signature) and is set to take effect in the 2028 fiscal year.

Delaware schools will continue to offer free and reduced-price meals in the 2026-27 school year according to education officials.

Meal benefit forms will be sent home with families to verify eligibility for the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and After School Snack Program.

Delaware experts advise homeowners to keep thermostats above 72 degrees to balance comfort and energy savings during a heat wave with 100-degree forecasts ahead of the July 4th holiday; they recommend 82 degrees at night (to ease AC strain).

Office of Highway Safety is offering $20 rideshare vouchers for Lyft and Uber via MySoberRides.com to help Delawareans ride safely during the holiday.

The vouchers are available from noon until 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 4 and can be used until 3 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, one per account.

Delaware Prosperity Partnership named Monique Claiborne Cardwell as its new president and CEO — she will begin on Sept.

14 to lead efforts in attracting investments and expanding business opportunities. Gov. Matt Meyer said her 20 years of economic development experience will support the state's growth goals.

On July 1, Utz Brands recalled over 650K bags of Zapp's & Dirty potato chips due to salmonella concerns with dry milk seasoning.

Delaware retailers have removed the products from shelves, and officials advise customers not to eat them.

Dangerous heat will hit Wilmington as temperatures and humidity rise this weekend; health professionals advise residents — especially older adults and young children — to watch for signs like dizziness and nausea and to seek shade and hydration quickly.

Free family events will be offered across Delaware in July including concerts, bonfires, movie nights, and outdoor performances.

These events, set in locations such as Battery Park, Dover’s The Green, and Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge (from today), provide affordable summer fun for everyone.

Local fast-food chains and restaurants in Delaware are celebrating America’s 250th birthday with red-white-blue menu deals that are now available or will be offered on July 4.

Offers include $2.50 items at Sonic and Freddy’s + a free doughnut at Krispy Kreme for patrons celebrating the holiday.

Fourth of July Celebration on the Riverfront

2-10:30 p.m. — Riverfront Wilmington — Free entry — Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with music, food, and fireworks along the Christina River.

Latin Friday Night

9:15 p.m. — Take The Lead Dance Studio — $15 at the door — Experience the vibrant energy of Delaware's largest Latin dance party with a mix of salsa, bachata, and more.

Shady Grove Music Festival Featuring Heavy Temple

12-3 p.m. — Arden Club — Free entry — Celebrate original music in a family-friendly outdoor environment.

Matt Maeson Concert

8 p.m. — The Queen — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of emotive music from rising artist Matt Maeson.

Third Thursdays at Nemours Estate

5-8 p.m. — Nemours Estate — Local food truck offerings and live music — Enjoy the gardens while sipping beer and savoring bites from local vendors.

Concert by Taj Mahal

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Grand Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with the legendary blues musician at a historic venue.

Nike Field Hockey Camp at Banning Park

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Banning Regional Park — $399 — Elevate your field hockey skills with expert coaching in a supportive environment.

Luther Re-Lives Featuring William 'Smooth' Wardlaw

5-8:30 p.m. — P.S. DuPont Middle School — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Luther as William 'Smooth' Wardlaw brings his style to life.