Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield will host a holiday planter contest where residents, businesses and groups can request a planter on a first-come, first-served basis; decorations will run from November 15 through December 5 plus judging will be held from December 6 through 12.

The Catholic Charities at St. John’s Breadline has kept its service running daily for 96 years to help families who lost food stamp benefits by providing free meals.

They serve over 4000 meals a day and welcome donations and volunteers at (430 North 5th St).

Texas Roadhouse in Springfield is giving veterans and active military free meal vouchers today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2540 W.

Iles Ave — vouchers require proof of service and are valid for one of ten entrees until May 31.

Triple-A reported that the average price for a gallon of regular fuel in Springfield was $3.13 on November 10, which was seven cents higher than a week ago and four cents lower than a month ago — the statewide average was $3.28.

UIS Chancellor Janet L.

Gooch will host a conversation with Springfield community leader Mylas Copeland on December 3 at 5 p.m. at the UIS Student Union Ballroom (visitor parking is available in Lot J) as part of her Thinkers Series event that is free and open to the public and will explore servant leadership and community collaboration.

University of Illinois Springfield is expanding its Prairie Promise program to include eligible Illinois transfer students and will cover full tuition and fees starting in fall 2026—students need to apply by May 1 and meet financial need eligibility.

School districts in Springfield and Williamsville-Sherman are working to boost student participation in clubs and sports after a drop during the coronavirus pandemic—District 186 is addressing busy schedules by using word-of-mouth and social media while District 15 has reached pre-pandemic levels.

The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office will host a job fair on Saturday, November 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Atrium of the Sangamon County Building in Springfield to connect job seekers with law enforcement, corrections and public safety support roles + the event will also feature Sangamon County Court Services representatives to discuss probation and detention positions.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum hosted a celebration of the Marines Monday that honored 96-year-old Bill Keener, who recalled sad memories from the Korean War.

Marine veteran Anthony Vaughn, the guest of honor, said that the strength of the Marine Corps comes from its Marines — a message that highlights a legacy of service.

IEMA-OHS and the National Weather Service advised residents to prepare for winter by winterizing homes, insulating pipes, and gathering emergency kits as cold weather and snow move into the region+ they will share daily safety tips during Winter Weather Preparedness Week to help everyone be weather ready.

Springfield will host its Veterans Day parade today at 10 a.m. in downtown as participants form near Capitol between Ninth and 11th with U.S. Navy veteran Charlie DeHart leading the route down Capitol Avenue to the Capitol building—DeHart served as a torpedoman's mate on two submarines and recently returned after a hospital stay following an accident. Lincoln Land Community College will hold a ceremony at A. Lincoln Commons at 12:30 that features a wreath laying and the playing of Taps while free bus rides and museum admission are offered to veterans.

UIS athletics enters its final regular season week as Prairie Stars volleyball will face two key GLVC matchups and both men’s and women’s basketball teams begin their 2025-26 road schedules; the busy weekend features women’s basketball at Hillsdale on Nov.

14, men’s basketball versus Roosevelt, volleyball at Maryville and Missouri S&T, then contests against Tiffin and Parkside — a crucial period for the UIS teams.

Firefighters' Lake Club Trivia Night

7-10 p.m. — Firefighters Lake Club — $10 entry — Challenge your knowledge with general trivia and compete for cash prizes.

Live Music at BuzzBomb with Ryne Thorson

8-9 p.m. — Buzz Bomb Brewing Co — Cost info not provided — Enjoy live music performances while savoring craft brews.

Zoo Lights at Henson Robinson Zoo

5-9 p.m. — Henson Robinson Zoo — Entry Fee Applicable — Experience a magical stroll through thousands of lights and delightful holiday treats.

Elmo and Friends Say Hello

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Bank of Springfield Center — Family-friendly event — Sing, dance, and play alongside Elmo and friends in a fun celebration on Sesame Street.

Frostbite Festival

9 a.m. — AMF Springfield Lanes — Check event page for registration costs — Participate in the 62nd annual Frostbite Festival with 2 mile and 10 mile races.

Holiday Cheer Paint Night with Ashley Blake

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Library - Pizza and Sports Bar — Free entry — Unleash your inner artist and get festive with a fun paint night experience.