Good morning, Springfield.

Chicopee will host a celebration for the nation’s 250th this Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the football field at Szot Park, featuring food trucks + live music + craft vendors, a screening of Sgt. Stubby, and a donation drive for local food pantries.

Rumbleseat Bar & Grille in Chicopee has received a temporary permit to stay open until 3 a.m. on select nights to host World Cup watch parties for soccer fans and local workers.

The pilot program lasts until July 31.

South Deerfield author Stephen Billias has released his new novel The Zen Time Traveler, a blend of Zen philosophy and fantasy fiction, and he will host a launch party Sunday, July 12 from 2-4 p.m. at the Engaged Mindfulness Institute (595B River Road in Deerfield).

American International College launched the LIFT Center in the James J.

Shea Sr. Memorial Library — a hub linking students to food, housing and essential services. Funded by $85,000 in grants, including $34,000 from the Beveridge Family Foundation, the center helps students overcome basic need challenges.

Springfield Water and Sewer Commission is testing soil for PCBs at its West Parish water treatment plant project on Granville Road in Westfield, near the Cobble Mountain Reservoir.

The commission also borrowed $50 million from the Clean Water Trust as delays and cost increases push plant completion to August 2029 (details pending further testing).

Black Music Month Celebration at White Lion Brewing

6-10 p.m. — White Lion Brewing Company — Free entry — Celebrate Black Music Month with live performances from Braye Nicole, Heshima Moja, and TMC Band in a lively beer garden atmosphere.

La Casita Experience

7-9 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticketed event — Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican culture with live music, food, and community spirit.

Lawn Party @ The Landing with Carol Devine & The Mighty Fine

4:30-7:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of Classic Soul and Funk with Carol Devine & The Mighty Fine.

Downtown Springfield Farmers Market

11 AM – 3 PM — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Explore fresh local produce and enjoy live music at this vibrant farmers market.

Independence Day Celebration in Springfield

6-10 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free admission — Celebrate Independence Day with live music and a spectacular fireworks show over the river.

2026 Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival

Friday night and Saturday — Court Square — Free entry — Experience a vibrant blend of jazz, blues, and cultural discussions in the heart of Springfield.

Misha Brown Live Performance

8:30-11:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets required — Experience the captivating influence of social media star Misha Brown with a night of entertainment.

Springfield Dragon Boat Festival - Individual Registration

6 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club — Free entry — Sign up to paddle in a dragon boat and enjoy a day of community fun and teamwork.

Yoga on the Landing

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Engage in gentle yoga sequences and sound healing while connecting with the community in a serene outdoor environment.

Lawn Party @ The Landing Featuring La Era Del Mambo

4:30-7:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free admission — Enjoy a lively evening of Latin sounds with La Era Del Mambo.