WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Big E marked its last Monday of the fair with a celebration of the city of firsts! A parade was held in honor of Springfield, kicking off from Gate 1 and making its way through the fairgrounds. City leaders, including Springfield Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers, were there to represent the city. The parade was full of spirit, with local marching bands, and even Springfield's very own Colleen Court. 22News spoke to 2024 Springfield Colleen, Emma Feeley, who was excited for the opportunity, "The fact that I am from Springfield and representing Springfield as the Colleen is just really important to me. I've always wanted to do it. So having that opportunity is really special And if you plan to go to the fairgrounds tomorrow---don't miss the Big E's 'Salute to Chicopee.' Local News Headlines Five Tufts Lacrosse players hospitalized after workout, local doctors weigh in Big E celebrates Springfield with parade and city leaders C Barn at Big E reopens after fire, horses safe Springfield sees drop in violent crime, rise in thefts WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.