National Events

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off

Springfield, Missouri has been selected as the Official Host City of the Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off, which will anchor locations across Route 66, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

This event will present a New Year’s Eve Times Square-like atmosphere and include a major concert with A-List entertainment, car shows, food, parades, and more. It will be centered at the Historic Shrine Mosque downtown.

This celebration marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66's official naming, which occurred on April 30, 1926, when a telegram was sent from Springfield requesting the road be named Route 66.

Five official satellite cities have been named to share in the kick-off:

• Joliet, Illinois
• St. Louis, Missouri
• Amarillo, Texas
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Santa Monica, California

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

The Main Street of America Route 66 Centennial Caravan

The caravan is designed to bring people together across 2,448 miles of the most famous road in the world. It will cover the entire distance, leaving from California and traveling to Illinois on the Mother Road! It is being organized by the organized by the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership.

This caravan is not meant to replace the more comprehensive Motor Tours that State Associations organize annually. Think of it as a long parade that gives each community a moment of their own during the Centennial and know that they are part of the great 'linear village' of Route 66!

A core caravan of ten to twelve cars will be making the journey across the Mother Road, passing through many towns along Historic Route 66. This national parade can be joined at any time! A more detailed itinerary will be published closer to the event.

More Info: www.Route66Caravan.com website

Dates: June 5 - 24, 2026

The Drive Home VII: Route 66 - A Century of Adventure

America's Automotive Trust, the Detroit Auto Show, and The National Route 66 Centennial Commissioni are proud to announce The Drive Home VII: Route 66 - A Century of Adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country drive celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legendary Route 66.

This commemorative event began on January 3, 2026, in Santa Monica, California, and spanne the full length of Route 66, arriving nine days later in Chicago, Illinois on January 12. The vehicles were then on display at the world-class Detroit Auto Show beginning on January 14.

More Info: Website

Dates: January 3 - 12, 2026

The Route 66 Hemmings Great Race

The Route 66 Centennial Great Race is a 9-day vintage car rally from Springfield, lllinois to Pasadena, California, using Route 66 as the backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Approximately 130 cars ranging in model years 1911 to 1974 will compete. It will be a unique event on Route 66 in 2026.

The race will stop in 17 different cities along Route 66 for promotional engagement, allowing spectators to intermingle with the drivers and teams in each community. The open format generates a very up-close experience for spectators and race teams. In addition, the Great Race will travel through dozens of other small towns along Route 66 during the event.

More Info: Website

Dates: June 20-28, 2026

Illinois

Route 66 Centennial Celebration Weekend: Cruisin' Through the Century
Bloomington-Normal, Illinois

Bloomington-Normal is planning a variety of events during its Route 66 Centennial Celebration weekend ... join in the "Cruisin' Through the Century" festivities in the area!

Experience the magic of the Mother Road through one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, themed festivals, and family-friendly corn mazes. From interactive scavenger hunts to historic landmarks, area Route 66 Centennial celebrations invite visitors and locals to connect with the vibrant history and remarkable people that make McLean County a true bucket-list destination.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: June 6-7, 2026

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration
Joliet, Illinois

Joliet has been selected as one of five official "Satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-Off, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

The celebration will take place at the historic 1858 Old Joliet Prison Site. The property is now an economic development engine and community gathering space, welcoming nearly 100,000 visitors since the project's inception.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

25th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Springfield, Illinois

The cars, the music, the fun and nostalgia that Route 66 has brought to generations will return in 2026 to downtown Springfield. Hundreds of cool cars and thousands of spectators will roll into the heart of Springfield’s historic downtown for a weekend of family fun in the sun and non-stop live music and entertainment!

Come celebrate the golden age of Route 66 … the cars, the music, the food, the friends ... all brought together along Illinois’ Route 66.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: September 25-27, 2026

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway: Conference & Celebration
Springfield, Illinois - Route 66 Motorheads

This Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration is scheduled to include a conference, gala awards luncheon, and a grand celebration. Those invited to attend are Route 66 enthusiasts, roadies, Byway members, and non-members, to join in a full day of education, recognition, and celebration.

It will be an opportunity to meet with industry leaders, Route 66 advocates, and community members to explore the rich history and promising future of Illinois Route 66. Sessions will feature updates, resources, and insights to celebrate and preserve the Mother Road.

Also planned is a grand celebration of Route 66’s 100th anniversary, featuring live entertainment in the Motordome at Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum, special guests, classic cars and networking opportunities.

More Info: Website

Date: November 10-11, 2026

Missouri

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off
Springfield, Missouri

Springfield, Missouri has been selected as the Official Host City of the Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off, which will anchor locations across Route 66, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

This event will present a New Year’s Eve Times Square-like atmosphere and include a major concert with A-List entertainment, car shows, food, parades, and more. It will be centered at the Historic Shrine Mosque downtown.

This celebration marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66's official naming, which occurred on April 30, 1926, when a telegram was sent from Springfield requesting the road be named Route 66.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

Birthplace of Route 66 Festival
Springfield, Missouri

As the birthplace of Route 66, Springfield's association with the historic highway has grown in recent years, with the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival held every August welcoming increasing numbers of visitors downtown.

Activities include concerts, live performances, a car show, classic car parade, giveaways, an award ceremony, vendor showcases and more.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: August 7-8, 2026

Queen's Gate 66 Sculpture Dedication Ceremony
Springfield, Missouri

Rising proudly on St. Louis, just west of Glenstone as the East side Gateway to Birthplace of Route 66, the planned "Queen's Gate 66" monument is more than a photo stop — it's a majestic symbol of Springfield's status as the Birthplace of Route 66.

Designed to soar nearly 30 feet high, the crown-like structure positioned next to Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven - a tour stop of its own, Queen's Gate signifies more than royalty: it's a sunburst, casting light on Springfield's foundational role in the national highway's origin story.

Illuminated at night, Queen's Gate 66 will welcome travelers from across the world, offering a moment to pause, reflect, and realize where this journey all began.

More Info: Facebook

Dates: May 1, 2026

Birthplace Plaza Dedication Ceremony
Springfield, Missouri

4:00pm, at the corner of Jefferson Avenue & St. Louis Street

More Info: Facebook

Dates: April 30, 2026

32nd Annual Route 66 Summerfest
Rolla, Missouri

Parade featuring classic cars, and motorcycles ending at the festival lots. After the parade, great music at the bandshell. This is more than a festival — it’s a milestone. Food, music, photo ops, vendors, activities for all ages. There will be more music and more time to celebrate and kick off summer the best way.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: June 4-5-6, 2026

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration
St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis has been selected as one of five official "Satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-Off, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

The local festivities will celebrate a century of the Mother Road, with concerts, car displays, a 6.6-mile bike ride, documentary screenings, presentations, and family activities.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

Route 66 100th Anniversary Festival
St. Louis, Missouri

Celebrate a century of traveling on the Mother Road at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park for a week of events exploring everything from the stunning natural scenery and quirky roadside attractions in both winding rural towns and big cities, to the challenges and inequities faced by some travelers.

Enjoy concerts, car displays, a 6.6-mile bike ride, documentary screenings, presentations and family activities, including a chance to design your own cardboard car for a drive-in movie night!

More Info: Website

Dates: April 30 - May 5, 2026

Kansas

Gearhead Curios Pin-Up Contest
Galena, Kansas

The Gearhead’s Pin-Up Contest in Galena, Kansas, is a lively celebration of vintage aesthetics and automotive culture. Events start at 3:00 pm and last until 9:00 pm. This event typically features participants dressed in retro-inspired outfits, showcasing styles from the 1940s to the 1960s, reflecting the charm and glamour of classic pin-up culture. Contestants are judged based on their outfits, creativity, and overall presentation, often incorporating elements that pay homage to automotive themes.

The atmosphere is fun and vibrant, with music, cheering crowds, and a sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. The contest not only highlights fashion but also celebrates the connection between vintage style and classic cars, making it an integral part of Route 66 by gone days.

Attendees often enjoy a day filled with photographs with classic cars, locally restored gas stations, vintage signs, and participating and spectators, creating a memorable experience that combines nostalgia, creativity, and community spirit. Overall, Gearhead’s Pin-Up Contest is a delightful fusion of automotive passion and retro fashion, drawing in participants and fans who appreciate both.

More Info: Facebook

Dates: September 26, 2026

Oklahoma

Route 66 Capital Cruise
Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is celebrating 100 years of Route 66 with the largest classic car parade ever. From vintage muscle to family treasures on four wheels, thousands of stunning cars will cruise right through the heart of the Capital of Route 66 ®.

This exciting cruise will attempt to include 3,000 classic cars and become the largest ever on record. It will span 5.5 miles of Route 66 within Tulsa’s city limits.

After staging at Tulsa’s Expo Square, cars will travel to the official start of the spectator route at 11th Street and Yale. The route will then follow 11th Street (Historic Route 66) just north of the University of Tulsa and through key intersections, including South Harvard, South Lewis and South Peoria, offering several high-visibility zones for spectators.

Vehicles must be from 1996 or earlier, and must register in advance.

More Info: Website

Dates: May 30, 2026

Route 66 Road Fest
Tulsa, Oklahoma
SageNet Center at Expo Square

The Road Fest is a one-of-a-kind celebration giving you the chance to take your own journey through the history, attractions, characters, and fun of one of America’s most enduring treasures.

It’s also a great opportunity to experience the Route itself. Make a weekend of it, and hit the road to explore some of the 400-plus miles of Route 66 that run through Oklahoma.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: June 27-28, 2026

Tulsa Performing Arts Center (TPAC)
Tulsa, Oklahoma
TPAC John H. Williams Theatre

Tulsa PAC presents Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! ... A Broadway-caliber, community-centered production celebrating Oklahoma’s heritage as part of the Route 66 Centennial.

This production proudly joins the official Route 66 Centennial celebrations, honoring the cultural traditions and stories that connect Oklahoma to the nation and beyond.

Built by the City of Tulsa and funded by the people of Tulsa, the Tulsa Performing Arts Center opened its doors in March 1977 as the City’s new municipal theatre. The building itself occupies half a city block in Tulsa's historic downtown and is the design of Minoru Yamasaki, architect of the former World Trade Center towers. In 2019, operations were separated from the City and placed in the hands of the Tulsa Performing Arts Trust.

Housing four theatres, a studio space and a large reception hall, the TPAC has long played host to Broadway tours, nationally recognized artists, local talent and city functions.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: July 24 - August 16, 2026

Route 66 from Trails to Truckstops Exhibition
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

By the 1950s, Route 66 came to stand for freedom, adventure, and that good old American spirit—especially the untamed spirit of the West. Even the original Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City found its home along her winding path, right up on Persimmon Hill. And now, as we tip our hats to the centennial of this legendary highway, the legacy of the Mother Road still rolls on—carrying the spirit of the American West with it, wherever the wheels keep turning.

The museums tells this incredible story in its new exhibition.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: February 6 - June 3, 2026

Okie Nationals Tribute to 100 Years of Route 66
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The Okie Nationals is paying tribute to the Centennial of Route 66. This is an Open Car Show for all make & model cars / trucks & bikes. 70+ awards will be given out by the Okie Nationals Committee. Fun for the entire family with Food Trucks / Vendors / Live DJ / door prizes / 50-50 raffle / corn hole boards and valve cover racing, so bring your racers for competition. This show is supporting Make-A-Wish & The Friends of the Jimmy Everest Center. Proceeds from this show is to help children overcome childhood diseases.

This will take place on Historic Route 66 at 4100 Perimeter Center Drive in Oklahoma City. This is at the corner of NW 39th & N Tulsa Ave (behind Braum's ice cream store)..

More Info: Facebook

Date: September 12, 2026

Cycle 66
Edmund, Oklahoma

Cycle 66 is an urban/rural bicycling tour along historic Route 66 and beyond. Beginning and ending in downtown Edmond, Cycle 66 offers four distinct routes for all experience levels and raises funds for worthy causes in our community, including the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and Autumn Life Behavioral Health Center.

A true collaboration, Cycle 66 was officially formed as a combination urban/rural bicycling tour that highlighted communities and businesses along the Mother Road, beginning and ending in downtown Edmond.

Cycle 66 honors the nostalgia and legacy of this iconic highway, its deep connection to the culture of Edmond and central Oklahoma, and supports efforts to reimagine this national treasure for a new generation.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: October 4, 2026

Elk City Route 66 Centennial Festival

Elk City, Oklahoma

Live music, Fireworks Show, Car Cruise, Park Activities Open, Late-Night Swim, Food Trucks, Vendors, Car Show, Audio Contest, BBQ Contest, Art Show, Inflatables.

Held at Ackley Park, and sponsored by the Elk City Chamber of Commerce and Visit Elk City.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: June 12-13, 2026

Route 66 Heritage Fest

Miami, Oklahoma

On Main Street in Miami, celebrating local, tribal and Route 66 culture with free concerts, food vendors and fun!

More Info: Facebook

Dates: July 24-25, 2026

Centennial Route 66 Balloon Festival
Arcadia, Oklahoma

This Centennial year event will have five days of family-friendly entertainment at the Parkhurst Ranch featuring over a dozen hot air balloons, kite shows, helicopter rides, tethered balloon rides, food truck and vendor's market, art walk, live music and so much more.

More Info: Facebook

Dates: September 23-27, 2026

37th Annual Blowout Car Show & Festival
Sapulpa, Oklahoma

Join us for the 37th Annual Route 66 Blowout Car Show and Festival in downtown Sapulpa when downtown comes alive with the nostalgia of Route 66! This year join us as we celebrate the Centennial of Historic Route 66! Sapulpa's downtown offers a great variety of activities for the entire family.

Beginning at 9:00am - 4pm CST - The downtown Historic district will come alive with 300+ cars from near and far parked in our newly renovated downtown corridor all celebrating the nostalgia of the Mother Road. Our streets will be lined with vintage and modern cars for our Route 66 Car Show, food vendors offering a varitey of delightful snacks in our Food Court, and a Children's Zone filled with entertainment for the children.

Our local boutique and eateries will be open and ready to provide you with home town charm as you visit our quaint city for this wonderful event. There is something for the entire family! Join us in September, in the heart of Route 66 in downtown Sapulpa!

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: September 12, 2026

Celebrate the Centennial with the Giants of the Mother Road
Vinita, Oklahoma

Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial with the "Giants of the Mother Road" at the Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel in Vinita.

Visitors will enjoy live music, steak dinner, a car show, NORA Media Club, games, pirizes and much more!

Join us for two days full of fun as we celebrate 100 years of history along Route 66!

More Info: Facebook

Dates: June 5-6, 2026

Blue Whale Grand Re-Opening Celebration
Catoosa, Oklahoma

New Blue Whale Visitor Center opening.

More Info: Facebook

Date: May 30, 2026

Route 66 Midpoint Corridor Road Rally
Sapulpa to Edmond, Oklahoma

Get ready for an epic road rally along the most iconic stretch of legendary Route 66! Cruise the 100 Greatest Miles packed with nostalgia, scenic views, and classic Americana. Whether you're a vintage car enthusiast or just love an adventure, this rally promises fun, friends, and unforgettable moments.

Buckle up and hit the road for a day full of excitement and cool vibes! For just $25 per vehicle, registered participants will receive our official guide via email before the rally, outlining all the checkpoints with fun facts about each city. Participants may start anywhere along the route, stopping at each checkpoint to check in with your smart phone. Find out why the Midpoint Corridor is known as the "100 Greatest Miles" of Historic Route 66, with cities from Sapulpa, OK to Edmond, OK.

This is not a timed event, and we encourage you to explore our amazing Midpoint Corridor cities along the way. Shop, eat, play, visit, learn, and take photos for the best experience! The grand prize of $1000 plus many more fun prizes will be awarded at our official party at the Chicken Shack in Arcadia, OK June 6th at 6:00pm.

All vehicles and ages are welcome, so mark your calendars because this is an event you won't want to miss!

More Info: Facebook

Dates: June 6, 2026

Texas

Annual Car Show at Dream Maker Station
Adrian, Texas

Adrian is a popular stop for Route 66 travelers, as it is located at the geo-mathematical midpoint of the Mother Road, positioned 1,139 miles (1,833 km) from both Chicago, Illinois, and Los Angeles, California.

The annual car show in Adrian features entertainment, food trucks, door prizes, trophies for various car categories, and more!

More Info: Facebook

Date: May 9, 2026

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration
Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo has been selected as one of five official "Satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-Off, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

The iconic 6th Street will feature archived photos, recordings, and Route 66 memorabilia during its kick-off event by day. At night, festivities will explore the evolution of Route 66 and Amarillo's role in shaping American travel. The city is also planning the installation of a commemorative monument in Amarillo's Historic Route 66 District.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

Texas Route 66 Festival
Amarillo, Texas

Gear up for the Texas Route 66 Festival, in the Centennial Year, June 4-13, 2026! Dive into ten thrilling days of classic car shows, exclusive bus tours, a cattle drive & parade, live music, and much more along the iconic Texas stretch.

Spanning multiple towns and communities along the Texas stretch of Route 66, the festival brings together people, places, and stories that define the spirit of the open road. From car shows and cattle towns to pop-up shops, outdoor concerts, art walks, and vintage roadside attractions, this is a road trip brought to life. Each stop along the route offers its own flavor—from small-town hospitality and cowboy history to big eats, bold personalities, and a pride that only comes from living on the land.

Don't miss the spectacular grand finale on June 13 in Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District.

See you there for the adventure of a lifetime! All roads lead to the centennial in 2026!

More Info: Website

Dates: June 4-13, 2026

5th Annual Texas Route 66 Motor Tour
Texola to Glenrio, Texas

Join us as we cruise the Mother Road through Texas for three unforgettable days of fun, friendship, and celebration during the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, sponsored by the Texas Old Route 66 Association.

Experience the sights, stories, and small towns that make Route 66 legendary as we travel east to west across the Texas Panhandle. The journey begins in Texola and rolls through iconic stops including Shamrock, McLean, Jericho, Amarillo, Vega, Adrian, and Glenrio—each offering its own slice of Route 66 history, culture, and charm.

Come see what Route 66 is all about and celebrate a century of America’s most famous highway the best way possible—on the road.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: October 1-3, 2026

New Mexico

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration
Albuquerque, New Mexico

The city has been selected as one of five official "Satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-Off, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

Albuquerque's celebrations will feature music events downtown at the historic KiMo theatre, incorporating the nearby crossroads at 4th and Central, where the original and then final Route 66 crossed. The city will also feature an art-fueled road trip, which will have four stops within a two-block radius of the KiMo.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

Route 66 Summerfest
Albuquerque, New Mexico

This free event includes multiple stages full of local bands, food trucks, and more!

This edition of the concert series takes over a mile-long stretch on Central Avenue from Girard Boulevard to Washington Street.

Bring the family, enjoy the fun and celebrate Route 66.

More Info: Website

Date: July 18, 2026

Route 66 Roads & Rails Festival
Albuquerque, New Mexico

All wheels welcome: cars, trains, bikes, & more! Join us for Route 66: Roads & Rails, a two-day celebration of transportation, community, and fun at the historic Albuquerque Railyards!

Enjoy live music, family activities, classic cars and trains, bike meetups, local food trucks, engaging talks, exhibits, trolley and walking tours, and more. Free admission for all.

Come experience the spirit of Route 66 and explore Albuquerque on wheels! Sponsored by the Wheels Museum.

More Info: Website

Dates: April 18-19, 2026

New Mexico Route 66 Motor Tour
Gallup to Tucumcari, New Mexico

Route 66 has played a pivotal role in shaping America’s spirit of adventure, fostering a sense of community, and opening up new possibilities for generations. As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of this iconic highway, the New Mexico Route 66 Association proudly hosts a six-day journey across the Land of Enchantment to honor this remarkable legacy.

The tour will pass through Gallup - Grants - Albuquerque - Santa Rosa - Las Vegas - Tucumcari. Anticipated daytime stops in Laguna, Los Lunas, Bernalillo, and Moriarty will be added as we receive confirmation.

The Motor Tour, scheduled for September 8 - 13, 2026, invites participants to embark on a memorable exploration of New Mexico’s historic 604-mile scenic byway. The tour will follow the current Route 66 alignment as well as the pre-1937 segment, offering short daily drive distances so guests can truly savor the essence of the Mother Road, relishing the fun and adventure that have defined it for a century.

In partnership with Route 66 municipalities and communities statewide, the New Mexico Route 66 Association extends a heartfelt invitation to join this once-in-a-century event. The tour is more than a cruise—it’s a celebration of preservation, discovery, and economic revitalization along the legendary Route 66 corridor in New Mexico.

Whether you choose to experience all six days or join for a portion of the route, you are welcome to cruise with us and discover why New Mexico is truly the Land of Enchantment. The event welcomes classic cars, contemporary vehicles, travel trailers, and motorcycles, ensuring everyone can experience the magic of Route 66.

More Info: Website

Dates: September 8-13, 2026

Spokes on 66 Car Show
Grants, New Mexico

Join us in Downtown Grants for Spokes on 66 — a Route 66-inspired car show packed with classic cars, custom builds, live music, vendors, and family fun. Whether you’re showing off your ride or just soaking it all in, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.

Spokes on 66 Car Show features live music from talented bands near and far, playing a variety of genres—from Spanish and country to classic rock and timeless oldies. Best of all, the music is FREE all day long, right in the heart of Fire & Ice Park. So grab your lawn chairs, come out, and relax to the tunes while enjoying the classic cars on display!

When you register for the Spokes on 66 Car Show, you’re in for more than just the thrill of competition! All contestants will receive an exclusive SWAG bag, an event T-shirt, car show participation plaque, and more!

Come and celebrate cars, community, and culture in true Route 66 style! Sponsored by the Grants Main Street Project.

More Info: Website

Date: June 6, 2026

Arizona

Ash Fork Route 66 Centennial Celebration
Ash Fork, Arizona

A community celebration blending the town’s pioneer roots with the Centennial of Route 66 featuring a parade, Cruising on Route 66 classic car show, chili cookoff, craft fair, kids games, and more!

The Ash Fork Route 66 Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the vibrant history of Ash Fork and its unique place on the Mother Road. Founded and run by passionate volunteers, our museum is a community-driven effort to celebrate the resilience of Ash Fork. From railroad beginnings to Route 66 glory days, the exhibits highlight how this small town thrived, survived, and continues to welcome travelers from around the world.

Date: May 16, 2026

More Info: Website and Facebook

Flagstaff Route 66 Centennial Celebration
Flagstaff, Arizona

Reminiscent of the era, this event will be a day-long experience, and a free, family-friendly event which includes nostalgic reenactments, classic car show, sky writing, streetscape art installations, and a festival in ‘The only 7,000-foot elevation, pine-fresh, dark-sky city on the Mother Road.’

More Info: Website

Date: June 6, 2026

Kingman Route 66 Street Drags
Kingman, Arizona

It's time again for the "Largest Legal Street Drags in the World on the Most Historic Road on Earth".

Racer registration begins on March 1, 2026.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: October 9-11 2026

Kingman Route 66 Fest
Kingman, Arizona

The Kingman Route 66 Fest celebrates all things Route 66, especially the history and culture surrounding it, and is hosted in beautiful Lewis Kingman Park, a historic park that was one of Arizona's few shady rest stops along the Mother Road.

This event will feature live bands, a beer garden serving regional craft beers, food and craft vendors, a motorcycle show, a classic car show, a vintage trailer show, a pin up contest, Route 66 displays, fun activity zones, zipline, a fun photobooth, children's activities and more!

The Route 66 Fest is free for spectators and free public parking is in the adjacent lot at the corner of Andy Devine Ave (Route 66) and Fairgrounds Ave.

More Info: Website

Dates: October 16-17, 2026

Seligman Centennial Celebration
Seligman, Arizona

Join the community of Seligman as they unveil their new monument signs in town for the Route 66 Centennial. Stick around for a great big day-long party!

This Route 66 Centennial Celebration will take place on the original alignment of Route 66 in Seligman, AZ, the Birthplace of Historic Route 66. Food trucks, live music, book signings from local authors- a full day of celebration to recognize 100 years of Route 66. This kicks off the 37th Annual Route 66 Fun Run, which takes pace May 1-3.

Date: April 30, 2026

Historic Route 66 Fun Run
Seligman, Arizona

More than 800 vehicles carrying thousands of friends will be joining the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona for a weekend of adventure! Historic Route 66 Fun Run participants from across the globe will meet in Seligman to travel a 140-mile stretch of Route 66 with events planned in nearly every community along the way. The procession will conclude in Topock/Golden Shores with an awesome community BBQ to cap off the weekend.

The annual Historic Route 66 Fun Run traces its roots to early 1987 when a small group of people led by Angel Delgadillo embarked on an ambitious journey to champion the rebirth of Route 66 and formed the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona.

Over the years, the continued success of the annual Historic Route 66 Fun Run has become an important fundraiser that has allowed the Association to aggressively pursue its mission for the preservation, protection, and promotion of the Mother Road. In many ways, it embodies all that we love of Route 66 - family, community, cars, and Americana. The Association will always stay true to those things that made the first Fun Run work - creating a relaxing, fun packed weekend of camaraderie, cars and the celebration of an American icon ... Historic Route 66.

More Info: Website

Date: May 1-3, 2026

Historic Route 66 Car Show
Williams, Arizona

The Historic Route 66 Car Show is an annual event held in the charming town of Williams, Arizona. This two-day extravaganza showcases classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles, bringing together automobile enthusiasts from all over the country. The event promises a weekend full of excitement, nostalgia, and family-friendly fun.

The car show takes place in downtown Williams, right on the iconic Route 66. The event typically kicks off with a Friday night “Cruise the Loop”, where participants can show off their prized vehicles while driving down the historic highway. On Saturday, the main event begins with the car show featuring hundreds of vintage and custom vehicles on display.

Attendees can expect live music, food vendors, and various activities throughout the weekend. Hosted by the American Legion, Cordova Post 13.

Dates: June 5-6, 2026

More Info: Website and Facebook

Route 66 JDM Classic Car Show
Williams, Arizona

For the 2026 show, the Route 66 JDM Classic welcomes ALL classic Japanese cars and trucks (2001 and older). Whether you own a Datsun/Nissan, Honda/Acura, Toyota/Lexus, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Isuzu – or even a vintage Japanese motorcycle – as long as your Japanese classic is 2001 or older, we’d love to see you there!

“Mission Control” for the Route 66 JDM Classic is easy to find – Look for the Dairy Queen at 603 Historic Route 66. That’s where you’ll want to be Saturday morning to park!

Dates: October 2-3, 2026

More Info: Website

Standin on the Corner Festival
Winslow, Arizona

Two days of live music, great food, and great drinks! Come Stand on the Corner in 2026!

More Info: Website and Facebook

Dates: September 25-26, 2026

California

Roy's Route 66 Cruisin' Car Show

Amboy, California

Celebrate the 100th Year Anniversary of Route 66 at this exciting car show in Amboy, California, at Roy's Motel & Cafe.

There will be live music, food, vendors, awards, raffles, pin-up contest, camping and much more!

More Info: Facebook

Date: March 7, 2026

Barstow Main Street USA Festival
Barstow, California

Join in the fun festivities including the 27th Annual Barstow Car Show.

Honoring the Past. Looking To the Future!

More Info: Facebook

Dates: October 9-10, 2026

Route 66 Big Birthday Bash
Newberry Springs, California
The Barn, 44560 National Trails Highway

Newberry Springs, California is proud to host the Big Birthday Bash, an exciting new event celebrating 100 years of the iconic Route 66! For a century, Route 66 has been a symbol of adventure, small-town charm, and the spirit of the American West—and we’re throwing a party to honor it in a big way.

This milestone celebration will bring together locals, travelers, families, and Route 66 enthusiasts for a day filled with community, music, food, shopping, and unforgettable memories. From classic Americana vibes to modern-day fun, the Big Birthday Bash will shine a spotlight on the heart of Newberry Springs and the legendary road that runs through it.

We have invited vendors, makers, food trucks, and small businesses to be part of this incredible celebration. This is a unique opportunity to connect with visitors from near and far, showcase your business, and take part in a once-in-a-lifetime event marking 100 years of Route 66 history. We hope you’ll join us and help make the Big Birthday Bash a celebration to remember!

More Info: Website and Newberry Springs on Facebook

Date: May 2, 2026

Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off - Satellite City Celebration
Santa Monica, California

This California city has been selected as one of five official "Satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-Off, providing an unprecendented special event to commence the Route 66 Centennial.

Santa Monica will host its kick-off ceremony at Mel's Diner on Lincoln Boulevard, featuring live performances by California musicians. The highway officially concluded at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard, near the Pacific Ocean. This final stretch of Route 66 represented the culmination of countless journeys across the United States, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration that defined an era.

More Info: Website and Facebook

Date: April 30, 2026

Route 66 Car Show & Block Party
Victorville, California

The City of Victorville invites the community to celebrate a historic milestone with the Route 66 100th Anniversary Celebration: Car Show & Block Party on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Historic Old Town Victorville along 7th Street, from Mojave Drive to D Street.

This family-friendly event honors the legacy of Route 66 with a lively street festival featuring a classic car show, live music, historical art displays, and engaging entertainment throughout the day. Guests can stroll the closed street and enjoy a variety of local vendors, delicious food offerings, and interactive experiences that highlight Victorville’s connection to the “Mother Road.”

The celebration is designed for all ages, with activities and attractions that appeal to car enthusiasts, history buffs, families, and visitors alike. Whether you’re admiring vintage vehicles, enjoying live performances, or exploring local businesses and artists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend. Come celebrate 100 years of Route 66, connect with the community, and experience the vibrant spirit of Old Town Victorville during this special centennial event.

Date: September 12, 2026

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