Good morning, Springfield.

Seven shelters, including Springfield's center, waive fees for dogs in a spring adoption event called Find Your Best Bud happening from today through Sunday + organizers aim for 100 adoptions to free shelter space before summer.

Brandon Rocco of Fearless Cards and Collectibles says interest in collectible cards is rising as the World Cup nears, and the store will host events for collectors.

The growing excitement boosts local business.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra will close its 2025-26 season on Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Symphony Hall with a concert titled Brahms and a Modern Voice featuring guest conductor Courtney Lewis and the Springfield debut of violinist Charles Yang; tickets start at $25 online or by phone.

Erin Sewell of Dusty Goat Farm now grows microgreens in East Longmeadow and has expanded its farmers' market to wholesale.

The production of Acting Class: 2 Fast, 2 Furrious opens today in Easthampton, and Emily Brewster of Merriam-Webster hosts her weekly Word Nerd segment (exploring phrases) on The Fabulous 413.

The Hampden DA’s office will host its 10th annual Hoop Up Springfield event Monday at American International College, connecting 200 youths aged 11-18 with job and education opportunities through hands-on activities like a basketball tournament, job fair & campus tour.

UMassFive College Federal Credit Union has improved online banking by adding a charitable giving feature that lets members donate through the transfers menu.

Launched in October, the tool has already collected $1,985 for the Food Bank + rotates featured charities including Amherst Survival Center and the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Springfield is cracking down on illegal dumping as Mayor Sarno publicly named offenders caught by the city’s 20 mobile cameras.

He warned that both locals and out-of-towners will face charges + further enforcement if they dump trash improperly.

Six Flags New England launches its first new coaster in nearly a decade today (in Agawam).

The Quantum Accelerator offers a family-friendly thrill with speeds up to 45 mph and a 90-degree turn that tilts riders entirely sideways.

Workers began roof repairs on the nearly 100-year-old Paramount Theater on Thursday in Springfield as new owner Mohan C.

Sachdev works to restore the historic movie palace and update the attached hotel property for future apartments. The project, backed by a $300,000 grant, is expected to take several weeks.

The Thunderbirds clinched a playoff spot with a 7-1 win over the Lehigh Valley Phantoms last night & now face weekend games that could change their seeding from fourth to sixth.

The Magical Music of Harry Potter - Live in Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Symphony Hall — Experience the enchanting score from the Harry Potter films performed live.

2026 Stifel Stars on Ice Tour

7-10 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket required for entry — Celebrate Olympic greatness with top U.S. Figure Skating stars showcasing breathtaking performances on ice.

Play by the Books: A Novel Night of Creative Crafting

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $20 ($15 for members) — Celebrate literature and creativity with art-making stations and a gallery tour.