Good morning, Springfield.

Friends of Robin Roberts Stadium and the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes are looking for a naming rights partner to fund renovations and upgrades for the historic field ahead of the 2026 season.

The funds will improve the fan experience and support over 150 events including college and professional games, highlighting the venue's role as a community hub.

Multiple churches and nonprofits will host free Thanksgiving meals for Springfield residents.

Central Baptist Church, Intricate Minds, Lincoln Land ABATE and others have planned events with set times and may require reservations or a dish to share—details vary by location.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced that the Illinois Product Holiday Market will be held at the Y Block—north of the Governor’s Mansion—on December 5, 6, and 7 with live music, local vendors, chef demonstrations, kids' workshops, and scheduled Santa visits.

The market will also offer two holiday boxes filled with curated local products.

The Illinois Commerce Commission cut Ameren Illinois' planned gas rate hike by 43% so 800,000 customers will face a lower increase from $128.8 million to $73 million.

The decision will help control delivery costs as winter approaches & aims to protect consumers.

The Sangamon County Sheriff's Office announced a new mobile app that gives residents quick access to services—such as inmate search, jail details, tip submissions, job listings, and public safety updates.

The app provides information on community programs and events while reminding users it is not for emergency calls.

Starting in January, Carle Health and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation will join forces to offer improved inpatient rehab services in central Illinois by combining advanced technology+ trusted care at Carle Foundation Hospital, Carle BroMenn Medical Center and Carle Health Proctor Hospital.

At a lung cancer awareness event held yesterday at the Lincoln statue outside the Capitol, American Cancer Society ambassador Lucretia Beler said lung cancer can happen even in people who do not smoke—she urged Springfield residents to ask their doctors about screening options.

Co-leader Kaitlyn Keen said catching the disease early may help with treatment and reminded locals to take care of their health.

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.

Dual Piano Christmas

7 p.m. — Hoogland Center For The Arts — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of holiday favorites and comedic improvisation on dual pianos.

Town Snowman Paint Night With Ashley Blake

1-3 p.m. — Harvest Market — Supplies included — Unleash your creativity while painting a winter wonderland masterpiece inspired by Snowman Town.