Good morning, Springfield.

Native American advocates gathered in Springfield’s Capitol rotunda on March 12th to protest offensive Native imagery and urge a ban on school mascots that harm their identity—state lawmakers have already passed a related measure in the House and the bill now awaits Senate action.

Advocates also highlighted recent wins, including the return of tribal land and measures to improve Native education.

Native American advocates met at the Capitol on a sunny March day at the 2025 Native American Summit to back a bill that would require schools to change mascots with Native images and include Native history in lessons.

Leaders like Rep. Maurice West and others wore traditional regalia—symbols of their heritage—as they pressed for respect and change in how Native people are shown.

A groundbreaking ceremony marked the start of the Iron Bridge Road Overpass and Woodside Road Underpass project, a $53.3 million effort to remove two at-grade rail crossings and improve traffic safety in the area.

Construction began mid-April and will finish by October 2028—funded by county, state, and federal partners.

Dick Durbin, Tammy Duckworth, and Nikki Budzinski announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation obligated $157,126,494 for the final segment of the Springfield Rail Improvements Project — the funds will enable new track realignment, a new Amtrak Station, and a Multimodal Transportation Center to reduce downtown rail congestion.

International Carillon Festival

All day — Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon — Free entry — Experience a rare musical journey at one of the world's finest carillons in the heart of Springfield.

Capital City Biathlon & 5K

6:00-10:30 a.m. — Danenberger Family Vineyards — Register online for entry fee — Test your endurance with a mini-biathlon and 5K run.

Levitt AMP Springfield 2025 Season

Ten free concerts in downtown Springfield thanks to the Levitt Foundation, PNC Bank, Springfield Area Arts Council & many local partners! Bring your friends, family, dogs, chairs, and picnics or order from the many food trucks and enjoy free, live music every Thursday, May 29 - July 31 on the lawn in front of the Governor's Mansion.

Lick Creek & Folsom Prison Five Concert

6 p.m. — The Stadium Smokehouse Bar and Grill — Enjoy great food and cold Coors Light while listening to live country and classic hits.

Dementia Caregiving 101: Nutrition and Activities

2-4 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Learn about brain nutrition and meaningful activities for individuals with memory loss in this comprehensive caregiver support program.

Springfield Watch & Clock Show and Sale

11 AM – 2 PM — Casey's Pub — Admission details not provided — Explore a variety of watches and clocks at this community-sponsored event.

Friends of the Farmers Market Brunch

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Union Square Park — Celebrate local agriculture with delicious farm-to-table dishes and community vibes.

Sangamon County Fair

7 p.m. — Sangamon County Fairgrounds — Family-friendly fun — Experience a Midwestern tradition with concerts, rides, and animals as you kick off the summer.