For many people, the night before Thanksgiving is a chance to relax, reunite with old friends, and unwind before the holiday. But for law enforcement across North Carolina (especially Wilmington), it’s one of the busiest nights of the entire year.

Commonly referred to as “Blackout Wednesday,” the night before Thanksgiving consistently sees spikes in DWI arrests, public intoxication calls, and late-night disturbances. If you or someone you care about is heading out for a night on the town, understanding why this time is so active with trouble can make all the difference.

Why This Night Is So Active for Law Enforcement

Packed Bars and Heavier Drinking: The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is an unofficial holiday for nightlife. Wilmington’s downtown bars, beach bars, and popular local hangouts experience some of their biggest crowds of the year. With more people drinking in a short window of time, tensions can rise quickly, and police stay alert to prevent unsafe situations from escalating.

Increased DWI Patrols: Law enforcement agencies across the state prepare for this night weeks in advance. Extra patrol officers are assigned to high-traffic areas, and sobriety checkpoints are common along major routes. Even short trips, like heading home from a friend’s house, can lead to a traffic stop. Officers are aware of this night’s reputation, and they make their presence known.

Greater Chance of Disturbances: Large crowds, holiday stress, and packed spaces can create situations where misunderstandings turn into criminal charges. Police respond quickly to reports of disruptive behavior, unruly groups, or intoxicated individuals who may be at risk. On a night this busy, officers often have little tolerance for anything that appears unsafe.

Common Charges Police Handle on Blackout Wednesday

DWI (Driving While Impaired): This is the prevailing charge of the night. With so many people driving home late at night and heightened patrol activity, DWI arrests increase dramatically.

Public Intoxication: Wilmington’s social scene sees heavy foot traffic, and anyone who appears too impaired to stay safe may end up facing charges.

Disorderly Conduct: Arguments, loud outbursts, and physical scuffles are more frequent when bars are crowded.

Underage Alcohol-Related Offenses: With college students returning home, underage possession and fake ID cases tend to rise as well.

What To Do If You or a Loved One Is Arrested

Stay Calm and Don’t Argue: The stress of the moment can tempt anyone into trying to explain or defend themselves on the spot. The best thing you can do is remain calm and avoid escalating the interaction.

Use Your Right to Remain Silent: Aside from basic identifying information, you’re not required to answer questions about where you’ve been, what you drank, or who you were with. Waiting to speak with an attorney is always a safer choice.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney as Soon as Possible: Holiday weekends can complicate communication and court schedules. An experienced attorney can guide you through bond concerns, protect your rights, and begin working on a defense strategy quickly.

Avoid Posting About the Incident: Even a casual social media post can damage a case. It’s best to stay quiet publicly and speak only with your attorney.

If You Need Help During Thanksgiving Week, We’re Ready

An arrest on one of the busiest nights of the year can turn the holiday upside down in seconds. If you or someone you care about is dealing with charges from the night before Thanksgiving, you deserve guidance from a team that knows Wilmington, knows the courts, and knows how to protect your future. The Gross Law Group handles cases across North Carolina, and we’re here to step in quickly and fight for the best possible outcome.

Don’t wait. If you need help, get in touch with the Gross Law Group today. Your next steps matter, and we’ll make sure you take the right ones.