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| THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Western Mass lights up the sky to celebrate America’s

250

th

Also inside: This summer, Old Sturbridge Village asks visitors what they would have done in 1776. D4

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From left, Erdogan Ansari, of East Windsor, Conn., gets a balloon during the 2025 Star Spangled Springfield celebration, and Aylianna Marquez, of Springfield, has her face painted during a past year’s Riverfront Park celebration.

(DOUGLAS HOOK / THE REPUBLICAN; FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

THIS FOURTH OF JULY, WMASS LIGHTS UP THE SKY IN

RED, WHITE & BLUE

C

Keith O’Connor | Special to The Republican

elebrating the Fourth of July this year is a once-in-alifetime experience for many Americans.

On July 4, 2026, our nation reaches a momentous milestone — 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the beginning of the great “experiment of American democracy."

It was on July 4, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress SEE FOURTH, PAGE D3

Waving from atop the East Longmeadow High School cheerleading team float at the East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade in 2025.

(LEON NGUYEN PHOTO)

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Eloise Castelan and her son K'Real King celebrate the July 4, 2024, holiday in Springfield's Riverfront Park. (PATRICK JOHNSON)

BLAST FROM THE PAST If the scene on the left looks familiar, it’s the last time the Springfield Symphony Orchestra played the city’s Fourth of July celebration in 1998. To celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, they’re taking the stage again at Riverfront Park on Saturday. Shown at left is Mark Russell Smith conducting the orchestra.

Fourth

remember.

“The Fourth of July has always held a special place in CONTINUES FROM PAGE D2 my heart. Independence Day is a time for all Americans to adopted the Declaration of Independence, calling for the celebrate the many precious freedoms of our democracy American colonies to secede and reflect upon the sacrifrom Great Britain. The docfices made for liberty. This ument’s first public readings year’s Star Spangled Springwere not until July 8, when parades, bonfires and musket field celebration is especially significant as we gather to and cannon firings accomcommemorate a milestone panied the much-heralded — 250 years of American innews. It would not be until dependence,” said Judith A. the following year that the first organized Fourth of July Matt, president of the Spirit celebrations would be held in of Springfield.

Now an annual event, Star Philadelphia and Boston.

Spangled Springfield first According to the organizabegan in 1991, and on the oction America250, the semicasion of America250, Matt quincentennial is an opportunity to pause and reflect on noted she wanted to bring something extra special to our nation’s past, honor the Star Spangled Springfield. contributions of all Ameri“What is a city without a cans and look ahead toward symphony and Springfield the future we want to create has a great one. The last time for the next generation and the Springfield Symphony beyond.

Orchestra performed on the Today, the Fourth of July steps of City Hall as part of tradition of parades and our Star Spangled Springfireworks continues around field was in 1998. I thought the country, including in Springfield, where the annual there could be nothing better than to bring our cherished Star Spangled Springfield symphony back to our celevent returns on Saturday to Riverfront Park. This year, the ebration, this time on stage at Riverfront Park for all to Spirit of Springfield, which enjoy free in the open air,” hosts the event, is putting Matt said. out all the stops to make this SEE FOURTH, PAGE D6 Fourth of July a celebration to

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THIS SUMMER, OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE ASKS:

What would you have done in 1776?

T

By Ashley Potter

apotter@repub.com

his summer, Old Sturbridge Village is inviting visitors to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by stepping back in time to 1776.

“It’s a break from your modern world,” said Rhys Simmons, director of interpretation at Old Sturbridge Village.

“Old Sturbridge Village is the kind of place that you can really dive into the founding of the country, all of its ideals, all of its problems, and talk with people about the history of the country, where it was and where it’s going.”

Through several new and returning programs, the Village asks guests to consider what they would have done if they had lived during the American Revolution. Would they have supported indepen-

dence, remained loyal to the British Crown, or tried to stay out of the conflict altogether? Above and at left are scenes from past summer events at Old Sturbridge Village.

In “Voices of a Revolution,” starting in July, visitors will consider how their characmeet six Revolutionary-era ter’s life would have been residents — a printer, a house- impacted by the Revolution. maid, a lawyer, a shopkeeper, “And then it’s going to all SPRINGFIELD’S BEER GARDEN a tavern keeper and a farmer’s culminate with your vote,” wife — each portrayed by the Simmons said. “We’re asking Village’s costumed interpret- each person to actually end ers. their experience at the meet“These are normal, everying house and cast a vote on day people that are wrestling whether or not they support with this Revolution,” Simthe Revolution.” mons said.

The experience will follow “Take a shopkeeper who, a historic New England town although she may be sympameeting format, Simmons thetic to some of the causes explained, starting with of the Revolution, had her presenting all of the issues, store ransacked. So now she’s opening it up for debate, paying the cost of this Revoand then ending with a vote. lution through the loss of her The meeting will take place property,” he explained. several times throughout the To make the experience day, offering all guests the more immersive, each visitor opportunity to participate. will also receive a character Starting in July, the Village card when they enter the is launching a new exhibit, Village. There are 12 different “American Reflections,” characters — each represent- examining America’s first 50 ing a different historic person years as a nation. “American W E E K LY ORDER OFF THE from the Revolutionary era.

Reflections” will be on disWHITE LION FOOD MENU As guests traverse the museplay in the Country Bank um grounds, they are asked to SEE 1776, PAGE D8

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What’s new to stream ‘Enola Holmes 3,’ Madonna and the ‘Legally Blonde’ prequel series ‘Elle’ among offerings

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 | D5

& Springfield’s Alex Rohan to play NIGHTCLUBS OUTINGS hometown show at Theodores’ THURSDAY

Theodores’: Alex Rohan. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Country Music.

820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield Lawn Party @ The Landing: Carol Divine & The Mighty Fine. The Landing at the MassMutual Center, Springfield.

White Lion Pridelands: Live music by local DJ and cold beer. Tower Square Park, downtown Springfield.

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S Michael Johnston appears in a scene from "Obsession,” now available on streaming.

(FOCUS FEATURES VIA ASSOCIATED PRESS)

The Associated Press “Enola Holmes 3” and a new album from Madonna are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week, as selected

by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: the “Legally Blonde” prequel series, a look at Ralph Lauren’s stamp collection celebrating America’s 250th birthday and “Obsession” arriving on premium video-on-demand services.

New movies to stream • Unexpected box-office staying power pushed back its home release, but Curry Barker’s “Obsession” arrived Tuesday on premium on demand. Despite a production budget of $750,000, the Focus Features release has amassed more than $337 million in worldwide ticket sales since opening in mid-May. In it, Bear (Michael Johnston) uses a One Wish Willow to wish that his crush (Inde Navarrette) loves him.

SEE STREAM, PAGE D11

LIVE WIRE

FRIDAY

PRINGFIELD’S ALEX Rohan isn’t like a lot of musicians these days.

Rohan, 35, has figured out a way to make music his full-time career but he doesn’t care about how many streams he gets on Spotify or other music platforms.

“I’m essentially chasing Springfield singer-songwriter Alex Rohan will play a homepaper with melodies and town show at Theodores’ today, July 2. (SUBMITTED) the show.

“It was really my first time dealing with professionals and seeing how they did things,” he said. “It was a real eye-opener for me.”

Around the same time, Rohan got a guitar, but music show at the storied venue and still wasn’t a focus for him. brought him along to sing in SEE LIVE WIRE, PAGE D12

“It’s about the performances and being able to keep getting into more venues. That’s kind of what gets me going.

Alex Rohan

whatever I can provide for my family with. So, it’s about the performances and being able to keep getting into more venues,” he said in a recent interview with The Republican. “That’s kind of what gets me going, not looking at how many people listen to my songs. I’m just not that guy.”

Rohan has certainly been able to get into plenty of venues and play his music for people over the past 15 years.

He makes his next local stop in his hometown when he plays Theodores’ at 201 Worthington St. today, July 2, at 8 p.m.

Rohan didn’t start out trying to pursue a career as a singer-songwriter. He grew up listening to his father and other family members sing and got involved with the vocal side of music, even performing at Carnegie Hall at age 11. He was in a choir, and his aunt was one of the composers for a Christmas

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“This is exactly the kind of memory that stays with you forever. That’s what great community traditions are supposed to do.”

Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra

Fourth CONTINUES FROM PAGE D3

At 9:30 p.m., fireworks will light up the sky, choreographed to music broadcast on Mix 93.1FM and in Riverfront Park.

Entertainment sponsors include MassMutual, City of Springfield, Musical Performers Trust Fund, and Springfield Business Improvement District.

Additional supporters include 90 Meat Outlet, Affordable Waste Solutions, American Medical Response (AMR), Amtrak Police, Charlie Arment Trucking, Elegant Affairs, Hilton Garden Inn, Joseph Freedman Company, MGM, Michael’s Party Rentals, iHeart Media (Mix 93.1 FM), Quality Beverage, Republic Services, The Republican, WWLP-22News, Springfield Parking Authority, and the city of Springfield including the Building, Fire, Police, Public Works, Water and Sewer Commission and Department of Parks, Buildings and Recreation SEE FOURTH, PAGE D7

NOW ON VIEW bigger than music. It says that when people choose collaboration, incredible things happen for a community,” Caisse-Roberts said. “This is exactly the kind of memory that stays with you forever.

That’s what great community traditions are supposed to do.”

Once again, for the 20th year, MassMutual, celebrating its 175th anniversary, is the major sponsor for Star Spangled Springfield.

“To honor both anniversaries, Fireworks by Grucci are creating fireworks which will light up the sky with rockets creating the numerals 250

and 175, along with plenty of other red, white and blue sparkling pyrotechnics,” Matt said.

The fun begins at 6 p.m. with face painting, balloon making and the opportunity to make your own tricorn hat with the assistance of park rangers from the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. Tricorn hats were worn by the first five U.S. presidents and were the standard fashion of the 18th century.

Food and beverages will be available in the park from 6 to 9:30 p.m., including Batch Ice Cream, Riga Bella’s Fried Dough, Mathis Munchies,

Explore the bold inventions, groundbreaking ideas, and creative thinkers that shaped the City of Firsts— from the American Revolution to the industrial age and beyond.

SpringfieldMuseums.org •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 3223767-01

The Spirit of Springfield has worked closely with Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, to make it happen.

As a result of the months of planning and hard work, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra will perform with 62 musicians on stage under the direction of conductor Thomas Bergeron, featuring a music program that tells a broad American story through music. There will be marches

by John Phillip Sousa, Duke Ellington-inspired selections, American orchestral standards by Aaron Copland and Martin Gould, John Williams’ theme from “Star Wars” and more. Springfield singer Vanessa Ford will also perform with the orchestra for several pieces.

“There is something incredibly powerful about watching a community gather by the river with a blanket, a lawn chair, the people they love and a live orchestra. That’s what this night is about. For the first time in almost 30 years, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra is returning to the Fourth of July celebration, and I think that says something

Destiny Sanchez and her children, Iz’abella Darden, 6, and Delilah Darden, 8, arrive for the Fourth of July celebration at Riverfront Park in 2025. Below, Jacob Koivisto, of Longmeadow, has his face painted at the Clowntique booth at last year’s event. (DOUGLAS HOOK / THE REPUBLICAN)

Sweetera & Co., and Elegant Affairs. The Springfield Water Department will dispense refreshing city water until 8 p.m.

To help get in the spirit, park rangers from the Springfield Armory National Historic Site also will be distributing 1,000 flags to wave until they are gone.

At 7 p.m., attention will be on the stage, where the Springfield Symphony Orchestra will be set up and ready to perform. The program begins with the singing of the national anthem performed by Ford and the introduction of special guests including Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Dennis Duquette, head of community responsibility and president of the MassMutual Foundation; Col. Steven Reynolds, deputy commander of the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base; Caisse-Roberts; and Matt.

The orchestra will then perform their lively patriotic program.

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Fourth

pendence — we’re celebrating 175 years of our community coming together,” said Becky Demling, Amherst Recreation outreach director, in a statement about this year’s event. “We invite everyone to join us for a fun and festive evening of live music, games, great food and fireworks as we celebrate this historic occasion together.”

While admission is free, the Friends of Amherst Recreation will accept donations, with a suggested contribution of $1 per person, to help cover the cost of fireworks and other entertainment.

Free parking will be available in UMass lots including 21, 22 and 33 with accessible parking available by entering Lot 11A. Public transportation options include PVTA bus

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6

Management.

For the public’s safety, officials will be enforcing no pets, no alcohol, no smoking, no bicycles, no skateboards, no roller blades, no drones, no sparklers and no illegal fireworks in and around Riverfront Park.

In order to prepare for the fireworks, the Memorial Bridge, where they are shot off, will close on July 3 at 11 p.m. to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

The rain date for Star Spangled Springfield is Sunday, July 5.

For more information about Star Spangled Springfield, visit spiritofspring field.org or contact the Spirit of Springfield at 413-7333800.

Above, Kelsey, Briella, Maddox The Fourth of July exciteand Camila have a good time at ment continues at Six Flags a past year’s East Longmeadow New England in Agawam, Fourth of July Parade; and at where, since the beginning right, a guest dances during a of the month, guests have Six Flags Fourth of July event been greeted by patriotic in Agawam. From Springfield banners, flags, garlands, and to Williamstown, Western Masan entrance photo opportuni- sachusetts has no shortage of ty anchored by a celebratory opportunities to celebrate the logo installation. nation’s 250th birthday this As part of Star-Spangled weekend.

Nights on Friday and Satur(THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTOS) day, park guests can enjoy topped with red, white and two nights of spectacular blue sprinkles. fireworks beginning at • All-American Funnel 9:30 p.m., weather permitCake: Crispy funnel cake ting.

“At Six Flags New England, topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and red, white and Star-Spangled Nights is one blue sprinkles. of our most exciting tradi• Red, White and Blue tions and a perfect way for families across New England Parfait: Layers of bouncy red to celebrate America’s 250th and blue Jell-O topped with anniversary,” said Park Man- whipped cream and patriotic Signature beverages will ager Bill Falzone. “This year sprinkles.

• Liberty Bell Apple Pie include commemorative is especially exciting with the addition of Quantum Accel- Smash: Vanilla shake layered cocktails and mocktails: • The All-American: Sprite, with red and blue syrup erator joining our lineup of strawberry popping boba and world-class coasters and one served in a cinnamon grablue curacao syrup served in of the region’s most spectac- ham crumb-rimmed mason a souvenir Americana cup ular fireworks displays. We’re jar, topped with whipped with a strawberry garnish. cream and finished with a proud to bring our commufried apple hand pie skewer, • The Tavern Cherry: nity together for a summer celebration filled with thrills, a cinnamon streusel-coated Coca-Cola Classic, cherry patriotic spirit and unforget- apple slice skewer and an and cold foam served in a American flag. souvenir Americana cup with table memories.” a cherry garnish.

• Americana Colada The park also will be offerAmong the other celebraing special limited-time food Frozen Cocktail: A refreshing piña colada layered with blue tions planned across Western and beverages including: rum and strawberry purée in Massachusetts on and around • Patriotic Vanilla Layer a collectible stars-and-stripes the Fourth of July to honor Cake: Colorful red, white 20-ounce pilsner glass. our nation’s birthday are: and blue vanilla layer cake

AMHERST Amherst comes alive each July with a vibrant Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks. This year’s event will be held on Friday at UMass Amherst’s McGuirk Alumni Stadium south lawn.

The free event, beginning at 5:30 p.m., features fireworks at dark, live entertainment, food vendors, a range of family-friendly activities and cold drinks in the UMass Dining Beer Garden.

“This year we aren’t just celebrating 250 years of inde-

routes B43, 31, 33, and 38, while those using rideshares like Uber and Lyft should set the destination as “UMass Southwest Circle.”

Rain date is July 5.

EAST LONGMEADOW East Longmeadow Rotarians are calling their multiday Fourth of July event “Celebrating America 250 in 01028 in the USA.” A carnival runs at Center Field Thursday and Friday from 6 to 10 p.m.

SEE FOURTH, PAGE D9

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“You cannot get a more immersive weekend that showcases the American Revolution than our Redcoats and Rebels weekend.”

Rhys Simmons, Old Sturbridge Village

1776 CONTINUES FROM PAGE D4

Visitor Center through December 2027.

“This exhibit really focuses on the year 1826 and how people were looking at 50 years prior, to 1776, about the founding,” Simmons said.

In the Village’s Brewer Theater, songs from the Revolutionary era will also come to life through “The Songs of Liberty,” being held in partnership with Clockjack Productions in July. The 30-minute live performances will feature a cast of local musicians joined by a Massachusetts Minuteman storyteller.

“It’ll give people a nice cool place to sit down either before they go walk around the museum or once they exit the museum,” Simmons said, adding that “The Songs of Liberty” performances will take place four times throughout the day.

The first weekend of August will see the return of a popular Village event, Redcoats and Rebels, which brings some 500 historical reenactors to the museum grounds.

“You cannot get a more immersive weekend that showcases the American Revolution than our Redcoats and Rebels weekend,” Sim-

ranges a bit, but every year, we transform our Common into a federal courtroom,” Simmons said. “It’s all about the citizens and the work that they each individually did and the choice they made to become a part of America.”

Simmons said this year’s naturalization ceremony feels even more special, falling on the nation’s semi-quincentennial.

“The ideals of the nation ring true in the swearing-in ceremonies, and the sacrifices that so many people made are a lot of times assumed by naturally born citizens like myself,” Simmons said. “It makes me feel lucky to be an American and have these kinds of rights and ideals set and established for me.”

At top, Redcoats and Rebels, the largest military reenactment in New England, returns to Old Sturbridge Village in August. At right is a scene from a past naturalization ceremony at the Village. This year’s ceremony takes place on July 4.

mons said of the event, which will feature military drills, encampments, and battlefield demonstrations with all of the sights and sounds of the Revolutionary War brought to life.

August will round out with a large-scale celebration, “Summer Sounds & Sparks,” on Aug. 15. Guests will enjoy live music, musket and cannon demonstrations and a grand fireworks finale — the first time Old Sturbridge Village has hosted fireworks in 15 years.

“It’s a great capstone to our summer, and we’re super excited to bring it back,” Simmons said.

In the midst of all the summer’s excitement, the Village will also play host to a naturalization ceremony on July 4, with more than 100 new citizens expected to take the oath of allegiance before a federal judge.

“It’s been about 15 years that we’ve been doing this tradition, and every year it

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“Fireworks are more than a display — they represent pride, tradition and shared experiences.

With community support, we can continue this cherished celebration and light up the sky in honor of our history, our community and the generations to come.”

Christy Moore, city of Greenfield recreation director

Fourth CONTINUES FROM PAGE D7

and on July 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The nightly fun includes carnival rides and games, food, live music, and a beer garden hosted by East Village Tavern.

The carnival is sponsored by the East Longmeadow Rotary Club with assistance by the East Longmeadow Recreation Department, Police Department, and Fire Department.

Due to construction underway for a new East Longmeadow High School, the town’s traditional fireworks display is being replaced for the second year with a laser light show and concert to be held on July 3 at Mapleshade Elementary School. Trailer Trash will perform at 7 p.m. and the light show will start at 9 p.m. Rain date is July 5.

Then, on the Fourth of July itself starting at 10 a.m., there will be an old-fashioned display of patriotism with a parade stepping off from St. Michael’s Church and continuing along Maple Street to North Main Street to Maplewood Street to Elms Street.

New this year is a sensory-friendly area “quiet zone”

Fireworks light up the sky over Beacon Field in Greenfield during a past Fourth of July celebration. (MATT BURKHARTT PHOTO)

tions for its restoration.

Rain date is Monday, July 6.

NORTH ADAMS For an evening of all-American fun, families can grab their tickets to the annual Fourth of July SteepleCats game versus Keene Swamp Bats on Saturday at Joe Wolfe Field, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

After the game, stick around for a free fireworks show, which begin immediately afterward at about 9:15 p.m. at Noel Field. Rain date for the fireworks is July 5.

NORTHAMPTON Northampton will celebrate the Fourth of July by hosting its 18th annual naturalization ceremony. The ceremony will A large crowd gathered, some holding supportive signs, to watch 52 applicants become U.S. take place on the grounds citizens at the naturalization ceremony in Northampton in 2025. (DOUGLAS HOOK / THE REPUBLICAN) of the Hampshire County Celebration, organized by the and the singing of the nation- Courthouse at King and Main along the parade route, Greenfield Recreation Deal anthem by Adelaide Ehle at Streets in Northampton at 11 located near Birchland Park Middle School, from Elmcrest partment, waits until Sunday 9:35 p.m. a.m., weather permitting. to get the party going. The Greenfield’s historic Street to Hanward Hill.

Fifty applicants representing free event begins at 4 p.m.

Concord Stagecoach will be 25 different countries will take their oath of allegiance to at Beacon Field with music, on display at Beacon Field GREENFIELD the U.S. The event is free and dancing, food, vendors, and throughout the celebration, an awards ceremony, foland the Historical CommisAmerica’s 250th Birthday open to the public.

Independence Day Fireworks lowed by a fireworks show sion will be accepting donaSEE FOURTH, PAGE D12

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CALENDAR Frederick Douglass Together is a community gathering hosted by South Church in partnership with the Amherst DEI Department and Jones Library. You can sign up to read a paragraph from Douglass’s “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” speech at https:// tinyurl.com/RFDT26. Readers of all ages are welcome. In addition to the reading, there will be an Amherst-area Gospel Choir performance, a panel discussion, free books, and refreshments. Free.

1066 South East St., Amherst.

Quadrangle Springfield Science Museum: permanent exhibits include dinosaurs, African wildlife, interactive STEM labs, Earth’s ecosystems, and immersive planetarium shows. Current special exhibition: Game On!, through September 13.

THURSDAY Jacob’s Pillow presents Compañía Nélida Tirado Flamenco: Thu., 5:30 p.m. Jacob’s Pillow Dance, Compañía Nélida Tirado Flamenco on the Henry J. Leir Stage. Rain or shine tickets from $48.50. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413243-0745 or www.jacobspillow. org.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Urban Bush Women: Thu., 7:30 p.m.; Fri. and Sun, 2 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Urban Bush Women: SCAT! The Complex Lives of Al & Dot, Dot & Al Zollar, in the Ted Shawn Theatre. Tickets start at $71.50.

358 George Carter Road, Becket.

413-243-0745 or www.jacobspillow.org.

Mt. Holyoke College Summer Theatre presents” “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express”: Thu., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Kendall Sports and Dance Complex, For more information or to reserve tickets, visit mhcsummertheatre.ludus. com or email MHCSummerTheatre@MtHolyoke.edu. Tickets are $15 general admission and $25 for a season pass. 50 College St., South Hadley, www.mtholyoke. edu.

FRIDAY Amherst Fourth of July Celebration: Fri., 5:30 p.m. UMass Amherst-McGuirk Alumni Stadium, on the South Lawn next to UMass Amherst’s McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Fireworks begin at dark. Rain Date is Sunday, July 5, at the same

AT THE PILLOW

Women take the stage Returning to Jacob's Pillow in Becket for the first time in seven years, Urban Bush Women — a Black women-led theatrical dance company — will present their musical "SCAT!... The Complex Lives of Al & Dot, Dot & Al Zollar" in the Ted Shawn Theatre. Set in a fictional jazz club, "SCAT!" tells the story of two people making their way through song, dance and storytelling during the Great Migration. Tickets to performances start at $65, plus a fee of $6.50 per ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, go online to jacobspillow.org. (MARIA BARANOVA PHOTO) time and location. Free. Stadium Drive, Amherst.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Urban Bush Women: See Thursday listing Jacob’s Pillow presents Ilya Vidrin: Fri. and Sun., 2:30 p.m.; Sat, 2:30 and 8 p.m. Ilya Vidrin “Proxies” in the Doris Duke Theatre. Tickets start at $81.50.

358 George Carter Road, Becket.

413-243-0745 or www.jacobs pillow.org.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Eisenhower Dance: Fri., 5:30 p.m.

Jacob’s Pillow Dance, Eisenhower Dance on the Henry J. Leir Stage, Rain or shine tickets from $48.50.

358 George Carter Road, Becket.

413-243-0745 or www.jacobs pillow.org.

Mt. Holyoke College Summer Theatre Presents” “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express”: See Thursday listing Downtown Farmers Market: Free, on The Landing at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. Fri. through Sept.

25, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1277 Main St., Springfield or www.mass mutualcenter.com

SATURDAY

Star Spangled Springfield 2026: Riverfront Park. This free, family-friendly event commemorates America’s 250th birthday with a mix of live performances, food vendors, and a fireworks show at the end of the night. The Springfield Symphony Orchestra will also perform at the July Fourth celebration for the first time since 1998. West Columbus Avenue and Memorial Bridge, Springfield.

A Communal Reading of the Declaration of Independence: Sat, noon Amherst Town Hall.

The Amherst Historical Society will be presenting a communal reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon on from the steps of the Amherst Town Hall.

The event will be marked by the ringing of church bells throughout the town at noon, followed by a SUNDAY summoning of the community to Town Hall by the blowing of Greenfield’s Independence a conch shell. Free. 4 Boltwood Day Celebration: Sun, 4:30 Ave., Amherst. p.m. Beacon Field. Rain date Jacob’s Pillow presents Urban July 6. America’s 250th birthday Bush Women: See Thursday celebration featuring live music, Listing vendors, and a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., Free. Corner of Beacon, Jacob’s Pillow presents Ilya Sanderson and Gerrett Streets, Vidrin: See Friday listing Greenfield.

Jacob’s Pillow Dance presents Jacob’s Pillow presents Urban Anubhava Dance Company: Bush Women: See Thursday Sat, 5:30 p.m. Jacob’s Pillow Listing Dance, Anubhava Dance Company on the Henry J. Leir Stage.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Ilya Rain or shine tickets from $48.50. Vidrin: See Friday listing 358 George Carter Road, Becket. Reading Frederick Douglass 413-243-0745 or www.jacobs Together: Sun., 3 p.m. South pillow.org.

Congregational Church, Reading

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: Permanent exhibitions include American and European prints, paintings, drawings, and sculpture. Current special exhibition: Book of Wonder, Cover to Cover: A Hands-on Journey with Donna Castellanos, through Sept 6.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: Permanent exhibits include vintage automobiles, Indian motorcycles, historic firearms, Hasbro GameLand, and other industrial and cultural artifacts. Current special exhibition: Declaration of Innovation: Springfield’s Revolutionary Ideas, through Sept 27.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibits include immersive, hands-on stations that explore the author’s whimsical characters and stories and childhood influences; and displays of his original studio, art, and family memorabilia.

Ongoing programs: “Summer at the Museums,” featuring hands-on art and science, live performances, guest appearance, and more. Presented free with museum admission, through Aug. 14.

Visit springfieldmuseums.org for more information. Admission (includes all 5 museums) — $27.50 for adults, $18 for seniors and college students, $15 for ages 5-17, free to children under 5, museum members, and Springfield residents. On the first Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission is free for all visitors. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

WEEKEND

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Above, Louis Partridge, left, and Millie Bobby Brown appear in a scene from “Enola Holmes 3.” At right, Lexi Minetree, as Elle Woods, in a scene from “Elle.” (JOHN WILSON / NETFLIX VIA AP;

Madonna attends the 2025 Met Gala at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5, 2025, in New York. (DIMITRIOS KAMBOURIS / GETTY IMAG-

JESSICA BROOKS / PRIME VIDEO VIA AP)

ES FOR THE MET MUSEUM / VOGUE / TNS)

Stream

She’s back!

Madonna’s new album, “Confessions II,” the sequel to her beloved 2005 album “Confessions on a Dance Floor,” arrives Friday — 21 years after the original. The critically acclaimed release, which produced such hits as “Hung Up,” “Sorry,” “Get Together” and “Jump,” was dance-pop disco for a new era of clubgoers. So, what will this new era bring? Judging by the previously released “Confessions II” tracks, the breathy “I Feel So Free,” the house rhythms of “Love Sensation” and the Sabrina Carpenter collaboration “Bring Your Love.”

— AP Music Writer Maria Sherman

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• Millie Bobby Brown returns as the younger sister of Sherlock Holmes in “Enola Holmes 3” (Streaming on Netflix). In the series’ third film, Enola prepares for her impending wedding to Lord Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge) when her brother, Sherlock (Henry Cavill), is kidnapped.

— AP Film Writer Jake Coyle New series to stream this week • Oscar winner Jean Dujardin (“The Artist”) stars in “Zorro,” a new limited French series about Don Diego de la Vega, a dashing, wealthy nobleman living in 1821 Los Angeles. This Diego de la Vega hasn’t tapped into his Zorro alter ego for 20 years, but when he unexpectedly becomes the mayor of LA, he finds himself in a battle against corruption threatening his city. The Zorro persona is reborn, and de la Vega must balance politics, family and his secret role as a vigilante. The show wis now streaming on MHz Choice and its subscription channels on

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 | D11

Prime Video and Roku.

• We learn in the new Prime Video series, “Elle,” that before she went to Harvard law school, Elle Woods was a happy teen living in the Los Angeles sunshine in a McMansion, until her father gets a new job in … Seattle.

The bubbly pink-loving teen quickly finds out that her new school is in its grunge period where Nirvana rules, and even the school’s cheerleaders wear flannel. Despite a variety of setbacks, Elle eventually finds her people and comes to love her new school. Newcomer Lexi Minetree plays the younger Elle, but at certain angles and in certain moments you’ll

swear you’re looking at Reese Witherspoon.

• You may have heard that Ralph Lauren has designed a USPS Stamp Collection in time for America’s 250th birthday.

Thirteen stamps were chosen that honor quintessential American images. A new special by The History Channel called “Ralph Lauren’s American Icons” dives deeper into the intention behind the project and features both previously unseen archival material and interviews with David Lauren, Ken Burns and more. It streams July 5 on the History Channel app, History. com and On Demand.

This album cover image released by Warner Records/Boy Toy — AP Writer Alicia Rancilio shows "Confessions II" by Madonna. (WARNER RECORDS / BOY TOY VIA AP)

WEEKEND

D12 | THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Fourth CONTINUES FROM PAGE D9

In the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved inside to Courtroom 1.

SOUTH HADLEY Fourth of July fireworks begin the night before the patriotic holiday on Friday at the Michael E. Smith Middle School on 103 Mosier St. The free evening, which begins at 5 p.m., will include food trucks, vendors and games for kids. There will be a DJ playing live music in the parking lot and the South Hadley Community Band will perform at 8 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m. People are encouraged to bring a blanket and/or chairs and plenty of bug spray. Alcohol and tobacco products are not allowed on school grounds. Rain date is July 5.

works for Freedom” party going early on Thursday at South Middle School Field, 30 W. Silver St. Live music and food trucks kick off the evening at 5 p.m. with fireworks closing out the night of patriotic fun at 9:15 p.m.

The annual Wyben Fourth of July Parade will step off on Saturday, July 4, at 5 p.m. from the corner of North and Montgomery Road. The parade will go on rain or shine.

WILLIAMSTOWN

The Fourth of July celebration in Williamstown is a free daylong event beginning at 9 a.m. with a hometown parade, hot dog cookout, readings of the Founding Documents, family events and more. The day ends at 9 p.m. with fireworks at Taconic Golf Club. Grounds open at 6 p.m. and they are asking attendees to leave dogs home and not wear high heels in order to protect the property.

Visit destinationwilliams town.org for a full list of WESTFIELD events and times. Rain date Westfield gets its free “Fire- is July 5.

Live Wire CONTINUES FROM PAGE D5

Yet it slowly got its hooks into him.

“I was still very much a kid, very much into skateboarding and running around all over the place with everybody doing whatever,” he said. “But when I came home, I would be listening to Sublime and learning how to sing those songs and listening to Stevie Ray Vaughn and learning how to play guitar and learning scales. So, when I wasn’t doing any of the million hobbies that I had going on as a kid, I was doing music.”

Rohan slowly started doing gigs and learned that he wanted to excel both at singing and playing. For him, live performance is what inspires him. And that’s probably why he now plays upwards of 250 shows a year up and down the East Coast. Some are bar gigs and others are private events, but he also does showcases

presented by his BMI, the publishing rights organization.

While he has a band, that group is on hiatus these days, and Rohan has built a solo show using a looper to create a multitrack live experience.

“Now that we have a second child, and just a packed touring schedule, I put the band on hold and focused all my energy on this looping show,” he said. “It’s great working with people, but it’s hard and once it came down to us wanting to grow our family, I needed to put something aside.”

Of course, with such a busy touring schedule, does Rohan have anything planned to follow up his 2021 EP “Lancaster”?

“Yeah, I have at least two full albums worth of stuff, half of it recorded, but doing all these shows, it’s basically a time thing,” he said.”But I have a five-song EP coming out — when I can find time to finish it.”

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