Good morning, Springfield.

The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance signed a Community Benefit Agreement with Swift Current Energy that will invest $5 million over the next 20 years in economic development, arts and culture, and STEM education.

An advisory committee of community and company representatives will oversee the funds—ensuring the projects benefit local residents while the 800 megawatt solar project energized last April continues operations.

One of Central Illinois' largest car shows, the Powerlight Abe Lincoln Car Show, will roll into Springfield this week with a dazzling display of classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

The event will begin with the Friday Night Cruise at 6 p.m.—Saturday will host the main show with TV star Erik Estrada making a special appearance and Cheryl Lemke helping to select the Ladies Choice Trophy winner.

During a two-day retail theft operation from July 24th-25th, Springfield Police partnered with TJX stores such as Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Sierra, and Marshall’s to arrest seven people and recover one illegal firearm—efforts aimed at preventing significant losses at local establishments.

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced the winners of the 2025 Cream of the Crop Photography Contest—nine Illinois students aged 8 to 18 will receive Bright Start 529 college savings scholarships selected from over 200 entries.

Winning photos will be shown from August 7—17 at the Illinois State Fair in the Treasurer’s Tent and first-place winners will attend a reception on August 8 during Agriculture Day.

Gov. Pritzker signed two gun safety bills into law on Monday morning that require gun owners to keep weapons locked up when minors or at-risk people are in the home and mandate that police use a federal tracing system to track stolen guns—violators face fines up to $10,000 and community service.

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.

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.

Ask a Library Techie

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Get one-on-one tech assistance with your devices from knowledgeable staff members.

Def Leppard Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Rock out with the legendary British heavy metal band known for their iconic anthems and powerful performances.

Vachel Lindsay Home Guided Tour

9:45-10:15 a.m. — Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site — Free entry — Explore the legacy of poet Vachel Lindsay with art displays and a chance to win his collected works.

Balloons Over 66 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Lincoln Community High School — Registration required — Enjoy a morning 5K run with friends and family in a vibrant community setting.