Good morning, Springfield.

The Kids and Car Safety agency reported that five children died this year after being left in hot cars and warned families to adopt safe practices, such as leaving a needed item in the back seat + locking their vehicles, to prevent future tragedies this Memorial Day.

Springfield-Branson National Airport saw Allegiant Air launch a nonstop flight to Gulf Shores, Alabama on Friday for summer travel (flights run Mondays and Fridays with fares starting at $66), while American Airlines starts a seasonal Saturday flight to Phoenix Sky Harbor to broaden travel options for local families.

Ozarks Coca-Cola in Springfield is producing limited-edition America 250 mini-cans that celebrate regional heritage as Missouri cans feature the St. Louis Arch and Arkansas cans have a mallard duck (nods to local landmarks).

The cans are now available at major grocery and convenience stores.

Rising gas prices, now over $4 a gallon, are affecting local plans as residents in Springfield adjust expenses for Memorial Day weekend, with many cutting extras + saving on daily costs while focusing on work commutes + careful budgeting to manage travel and essential needs.

Missouri is launching new health care community hubs to support rural areas.

The hubs will cover three to five counties and include coalitions of local hospitals, clinics+ pharmacies, with groups invited to apply as anchor sites by June 18.

A study by the Children’s Center at Johns Hopkins finds that kids account for over 45% of electric scooter injuries, with nearly 40% injured being aged 11 to 14 and about 70% boys, prompting experts to call for helmet use + safe riding practices.

Ginger Billy Live Comedy Show

6 PM – 12 AM — Springfield, MO — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique humor of Ginger Billy, a viral sensation from rural South Carolina.

Overnight Ghost Hunt at Pythian Castle

7 PM-3 AM — Pythian Castle — Entry fee applies — Explore the historic Pythian Castle through guided investigations and storytelling.

Henry Cho Live

8-11 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of clean comedy from acclaimed comedian Henry Cho.

Ian Bagg Live Comedy Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience hilariously interactive comedy from a world-touring performer noted for his energetic style.

Ian Bagg Live Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Tickets start at $133 — Experience an unforgettable evening of comedy with Ian Bagg in Springfield.

The Mystery Hour – Mother Road Edition

8 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free entry — Experience an Emmy Award-winning talk show featuring comedy, music, and unexpected interviews.

Kam Patterson Live Comedy Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience energetic comedy from a rising star and newest SNL cast member.

Candlelight: The Lord of the Rings

8:45-10:00 p.m. — Stone Chapel, Drury University — Limited Edition Tickets — Celebrate the 25th anniversary with enchanting music from The Lord of the Rings trilogy performed by a talented string quartet.

Springfield Sports Commission Awards 2026

7-10 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — No ticket purchase required for nominees — Celebrate the achievements of local scholastic athletes at the 14th Annual Springfield Sports Commission Awards.

2026 Queen City Open Pickleball Tournament

June 18-21 — Cooper Tennis Complex — Entry fee applies — Participate in the regional showdown of pickleball talent at one of Missouri's premier venues.