In December 1989, the Spirit of Springfield was incorporated and immediately began working to fulfill its mission to “promote community events and encourage civic pride.” It started with the celebration of Springfield’s 354th birthday which included “Springfield’s Annual Hot Air Balloon Classic” and the “World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast.” The Spirit of Springfield focused their efforts on events previously produced by the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs, which was closed in June 1989 due to the City of Springfield’s financial status.
The Spirit of Springfield has entertained some four million people with its diverse repertoire of events. To do so, the Spirit of Springfield raised approximately $4 million dollars in cash and in-kind contributions, and impacted the local economy by paying more than $10 million dollars to area vendors.
