Local News Day brought together hundreds of local newsrooms across the country to celebrate the essential role local news and information plays in our everyday lives — from helping people make informed decisions to strengthening community connection and accountability.

On April 9, 2026, readers, listeners and community members gathered at 15 news cafes across the state.

See the locations for local NC News Cafes across the state:

Community members and journalists joined together to share a cup of coffee and conversation.

I’ve only lived here less than a year, and this was my first event like this. It meant a lot to feel included! – A participant in Murphy

NC Local and news partners submitted Local News Day proclamation requests to the state and localities across the state. The state of North Carolina, Asheville, Burlington, Carrboro, Charlotte, Dare County, Duck, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Manteo, Nags Head, Sanford, Sylva and Wilmington have all issued proclamations recognizing the critical role of local news in providing communities with trusted and reliable information and as a foundational element of a functioning and healthy democracy.

Click the arrows below to scroll through images of the proclamations.