The annual Fourth of July fireworks return with MassMutual Financial Group as the lead sponsor and with the Commodores in a free public concert at Riverfront Park.
SPRINGFIELD – The city’s annual Fourth of July celebration and fireworks display at Riverfront Park, produced by Spirit of Springfield, will include a new attraction this year – a free concert by the Commodores donated by MGM Resorts International.
Local officials and business representatives gathered at One Financial Plaza on Thursday to announce the details of the annual Star Spangled Springfield program, including that MassMutual Financial Group continues as the main sponsor. MassMutual has been the lead sponsor since 2006.
MGM Resorts returns as a corporate sponsor for the second consecutive year, occurring as its proposal for an $800 million casino project in the South End faces a referendum vote in Springfield on July 16. MGM, in addition to providing the concert, will again donate $15,000 to the fireworks program.
The Commodores were one of the top bands during their tenure at Motown, known for many rhythm and blues hit songs such as “Just to Be Close to You,” “Easy,” and “Brick House.” The group is credited with seven number one songs and numerous Top Ten hits on the Billboard charts and had more than 50 albums.
“Bringing a group like this is wonderful,” said Judith A. Matt, president of Spirit of Springfield. “Everyone recognizes the music.”
“Who hasn’t danced to the Commodores?” said Kelley Tucky, a spokeswoman for MGM. “We all love them. They were thrilled to come here.”
The Fourth of July celebration will again feature Fireworks by Grucci.
The celebration will begin at 6:30 p.m. on July 4, at Riverfront Park’s Festival Field, with a performance by the Dan Kane Singers. The Commodores’ concert is expected to begin at approximately 8 p.m.
MassMutual is donating $40,000 and Tower Square is donating $15,000, among the various corporate sponsors.
Both Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and the City Council have approved the casino plans, but approval is needed from voters before it can be considered for a sole casino license in Western Massachusetts. If approved by Springfield voters, it will be forwarded for consideration by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
Casinos are also being proposed in Palmer by Mohegan Sun and in West Springfield by Hard Rock International. The Gaming Commission will consider granting one casino license in Western Massachusetts.
Other sponsors include: The Republican; Balise Motor Sales; the Springfield Parking Authority; WWLP-22 News; Mix 93.1 FM; Elegant Affairs; Michael’s Party Rentals; 90 Meat Outlet; Charlie Arment Trucking; Joseph Freedman Co.; United Tractor Trailer School; and the city of Springfield.