Good morning, Springfield.

The Eastern States Exposition donated $351,742 to support local programs through its longstanding trust in West Springfield.

The check was presented at a cake-cutting ceremony (celebrating a 32-year relationship) on June 25 by ESE President Gene Cassidy and Mayor William Reichelt.

Dietz & Company Architects Inc. in Springfield announced that Design Associate Soniha Nuzrat earned the LEED Accredited Professional with building design and construction specialty credential from the US Green Building Council after completing a rigorous exam, and she now applies sustainable methods to multi-family housing, higher education and municipal projects.

Last month, Thomas McCarthy signed a contract to continue offering postal service at Gateway Hardware despite it not being profitable + customers have continued to take advantage of the store’s extended hours compared to a nearby post office.

Springfield hairstylist LaRena Clark, known for styling Miss Massachusetts USA, published her children’s book, Dear Hair, I Love You, in February to help kids embrace natural beauty.

She will host summer workshops called *Crowned and Confident* at her studio on 143 Main St.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra launches an online auction called Bid on the Baton with $500 starting bids, inviting a community member to conduct 62 musicians at the Fourth of July concert at Riverfront Park.

Bidding ends at noon on July 2.

Bacon Wilson, P.C. announced four incoming law clerks for its 2026-27 program in Springfield (the firm has mentored law students for over 40 years).

The clerks will gain hands-on legal experience working with firm attorneys.

Springfield's reformed club, now called Casa Italiana, won city approval for its liquor license pending state review, as new president Salvatore Circosta (from Agawam) said the venue will serve beer, wine, and mixed drinks over 24 hours weekly at its South End location.

Springfield community groups received $50K and $20K grants from the Opioid Recovery Remediation Fund to support creative arts and youth programs that help prevent opioid addiction, and city staff met on Thursday at the Raymond Jordan Senior Center to review fund usage.

MassLive announced its 2026 All-Western Mass Baseball selections on Friday, June 26, recognizing top high school players from Classes A, B, C, and D (including local stars) as it highlighted standout talent from Springfield teams and nearby leagues.

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.

Heritage Pops Orchestra Concert

1-2:30 p.m. — Springfield Armory National Historic Site — Free — Enjoy a patriotic-themed concert on the historic grounds with the Heritage Pops Orchestra.