Gillespie Celebrates Route 66's 100th Anniversary with Roaring 20s Dance

The 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer and Dance event features music, food, and period costumes.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The town of Gillespie, Illinois is marking the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a Roaring 20s-themed night of food, music, and dancing at the Gillespie Civic Center on March 21, 2026. The family-friendly event, organized by Grow Gillespie, will feature live music, a catered chicken dinner, and beer, with attendees encouraged to dress in 1920s attire.

Why it matters

Route 66 holds a special place in American history and culture, and this event allows the Gillespie community to celebrate this milestone in a festive, nostalgic way. The Roaring 20s theme also connects the event to a pivotal era in the development of the iconic highway.

The details

The 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer and Dance event will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Gillespie Civic Center. The event will feature a two-part live music lineup, with Hank Greenwalt performing from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by the Glendale Riders from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Attendees will enjoy a catered chicken dinner and beer, as well as a dedicated dance floor. Advance tickets are required and cost $40 per person or $75 per couple.

  • The event will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
  • Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., and the event will start at 5:30 p.m.

The players

Grow Gillespie

The community organization that is organizing the 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer and Dance event.

Hank Greenwalt

A musician who will perform at the event from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Glendale Riders

A musical group that will perform at the event from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Advance tickets for the 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer and Dance event can be purchased online at the Grow Gillespie website or by contacting event organizers Jody Carpani or Shannon Sarti.

The takeaway

This event allows the Gillespie community to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66 highway in a festive, nostalgic way, connecting the town's history and culture to the legacy of one of America's most famous roads.