Good morning, Springfield.

West Springfield is moving forward with several projects as Eileen LaMountain, who has managed the Big E’s giant slide since 1987, shifts waxing duties to younger workers while the fair prepares for its 17-day run starting Sept.

12. The city is also studying whether to renovate or rebuild its police station at the old Walgreens site, improve Memorial Avenue and Riverdale Street, and finish a new Balise Honda dealership by mid-December—developments that mark major changes on the West Side.

Local craft brewers report that fewer customers drink craft beer as Millennials and Gen Z choose many drink options — business owners are adding food, events, and community talks to make their venues more inviting.

CVS Pharmacy reached a $12.25 million settlement with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office over claims it did not offer MassHealth its lowest drug prices — the company agreed to conduct an annual review of its prescription pricing to avoid future overcharges.

CVS did not admit liability as it settled to end the costly legal dispute.

West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt addressed mounting traffic delays on Memorial Avenue as The Big E is set to open in about two weeks, with local drivers facing slowdowns caused by ongoing road work.

The $30 million project includes underground utility upgrades and new granite curbs for sidewalks—aims for completion by the end of 2026.

Public health officials warned that vaccine rates are falling in western areas as over 10 percent of kindergartners in Franklin County started school without full immunizations, putting some schools below herd immunity for diseases like measles and polio.

The state will contest a planned $19 million federal funding cut in court and work to share clear vaccine evidence—efforts that remain crucial as children return to school.

Brimfield Outdoor Antiques Show

All Day — Brimfield Town Hall Annex — Entry fee varies — Explore the largest antique and collectibles market in the U.S. with thousands of dealers.

Latino Arts Festival 2025

5-8 p.m. — Springfield Museums — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant arts and cultures of Latin America with music, exhibitions, and hands-on activities.

Crochet Club Drop-In

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Make-It Springfield — Free, Donation, or Supporter options — Connect with fellow crafters in a welcoming crochet community.

North East Toy Show

5 PM – 5 PM — MassMutual Center — Affordable options for families and businesses — Celebrate the creativity and joy of specialty toys at the premier East Coast showcase.

The Big E 2025

8 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — $16+ — Experience 17 days of agricultural fun, live concerts, and cultural experiences from across New England.

The Big E Parade Featuring MCV

6:00-7:00 p.m. — The Big E — Ticketed event — MCV makes a festive debut in The Big Parade at the Eastern States Exposition.

Cole Swindell Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Big E — Tickets available — Experience country music star Cole Swindell with special guest John Morgan at The Big E.

Object-Oriented Programming in C# Training

9 a.m. — Healthforce CPR BLS ACLS PALS AHA Training Center — $1750 — Dive into C# programming through expert-led, hands-on classes in Springfield.

TLC with Big Boi Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Big E — Tickets available — Experience the iconic sounds of TLC alongside Big Boi in a vibrant music celebration.

The Avett Brothers Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Big E — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of folk rock with the harmonious sounds of The Avett Brothers.