Good morning, Springfield.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving warns that drinking before driving a car, boat or ATV is very dangerous this summer — the group urges everyone to check their vehicles and take safety classes — and will lead an Awareness Walk on September 6 at Sherman Village Park.

A 23-year-old man charged with four murders and arson in Chicago was arrested in Springfield after allegedly setting a three-story apartment building on fire on June 26 — he targeted his ex-girlfriend and another man while the intended victims survived and now faces charges in Cook County jail.

Illinois Symphony Orchestra will bring its free summer series Sips & Sounds to Springfield with performances at Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill at 600 Toronto Road on July 23 at 6:00 p.m. and August 20 at 6:00 p.m. The events will offer live classical and popular music along with local food & drinks and will be led by Music Director Taichi Fukumura.

State Senator Doris Turner said nearly $320,000 in grant money will boost Route 66 tourism in Springfield; the funding—part of a $4 million plan from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity—will help the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau launch projects like a free art show that celebrates Route 66 landmarks. The move is meant to grow the local economy and preserve history as preparations are made for Route 66’s 100th anniversary next year.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving warns that summer increases the risk of driving under the influence by car, boat, or ATV.

The group is partnering with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to promote safety measures and will hold an Awareness Walk (Sept 6) at Sherman Village Park to help reduce accidents.

On Sunday, the Patriots 18U team clinched the Midwest College Showcase title at Lincoln Land Community College by scoring eight runs in the first inning and three in the second inning—earning an 11-0 win over the Patriots 17U team.

Breck Calvart pitched a complete game—showing strong control—and led his team to a decisive victory.

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.

Scheels/Capital City Classic Pickleball Tournament

Thu, Jul 17 – Sun, Jul 20 — Iles Park — Entry Fee Required — Compete in one of Springfield's exciting pickleball tournaments and showcase your skills.

Washington Park Trail Trek

7-10 a.m. — Washington Park — Registration fee applies — Embark on a historical 5K journey through Washington Park's scenic trails.

Springfield Watch & Clock Show and Sale

11 AM – 2 PM — Casey's Pub — Free entry — Explore a variety of timepieces at this local watch and clock exhibition and sale.

National Button Society Convention 2025

11 a.m. — Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Ctr by IHG — Cost varies — Explore a unique collection of vintage buttons at this year's National Button Society Convention.

Monster Truck Destruction Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Illinois State Fairgrounds — $64-$88 — Experience the thrill of the Monsters of Destruction live and feel the adrenaline rush.

The Black Crowes Live Performance

8 PM — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Experience the raw energy of The Black Crowes in an electrifying rock & roll show.

Megan Moroney Concert

8 p.m. — Illinois State Fair Grandstand — $47-$122 — Critically acclaimed country artist Megan Moroney performs hits from her latest album Am I Okay?.

Snoop Dogg Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Requires Pre-Show Party and Concert ticket — Enjoy an exclusive pre-show party before Snoop Dogg takes the stage.