Good morning, Springfield.

The Big E fair in West Springfield opened Friday and will run for 17 days with tens of thousands expected daily.

A new vendor, Backyard Cantina (built from a shipping container), offers seating for about 100 near the Big E stage.

Director Gus Rousseau returns with the musical comedy 'Forever Plaid' at 52 Sumner, staging shows on Sept.

25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sept. 27 at 2 p.m., with tickets costing between $19 and $26.

The Spirit of Springfield named Rocco Falcone, president of Rocky's Ace Hardware, as honorary chair for this year’s Bright Nights Ball set for Saturday, Nov.

7 in the Aria Ballroom at MGM Springfield, marking the company’s 100th anniversary with live auctions, music, food, and dancing.

Big E 2026 has set a fall schedule with 10 Arena concerts starting Sept.

18 and daily free shows at the Court of Honor Stage; the outdoor 6,300-seat venue will host acts such as Alice Cooper, The Beach Boys, and Brad Paisley in September and early October.

Visitors returned to The Big E for opening day traditions as couples celebrated long memories while veterans enjoyed free entry on Friday (a Military Appreciation event) and families explored rides, food, and a petting zoo at the fairgrounds.

Gov. Maura Healey ordered flags at state and public buildings (including town and city halls) to be lowered from sunrise to sunset Friday in honor of missing U.S. service members for National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Patriots' experienced edge rusher Dre'Mont Jones recorded a sack in his debut and teased Seahawks fans on Instagram after returning from Seattle.

He signed a three-year, $39.5M deal and will boost the defense as the season continues.