Springfield Kicks Off Route 66 Centennial Celebration

Three-day event marks 100 years of the iconic American highway

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Springfield, Illinois, the birthplace of Route 66, will host a three-day celebration from April 30 to May 2 to kick off the 100th anniversary of the historic American road. The event will feature concerts, classic car shows, exhibits about Route 66's history, and dedications of landmarks along the route.

Why it matters

Route 66 holds a special place in American culture as an iconic highway that connected the Midwest to the West Coast. The centennial celebration in Springfield, where the route was first established, will honor the road's legacy and significance in shaping travel, commerce, and community across the country.

The details

The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Springfield will include live music performances, a classic car show featuring vintage vehicles, educational exhibits delving into the history and untold stories of Route 66, and dedication ceremonies for landmarks along the original route. The event aims to bring together Route 66 enthusiasts from across the nation to commemorate the highway's 100-year anniversary.

  • The Route 66 Centennial celebration will take place from April 30 to May 2, 2026.
  • Route 66 was first established in 1926.

The players

Route 66

The iconic American highway that connected Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 played a significant role in shaping travel, commerce, and community across the United States for much of the 20th century.

Springfield, Illinois

The city of Springfield, Illinois, is considered the birthplace of Route 66 and will be hosting the kickoff celebration for the highway's 100th anniversary.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Route 66 holds a special place in the hearts of Americans, and we're thrilled to be hosting the kickoff celebration for its centennial.”

— Mayor Jill Stein, Mayor of Springfield, Illinois

What’s next

The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Springfield will be followed by events and activities across the country throughout 2026 to commemorate the historic highway's 100-year anniversary.

The takeaway

The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Springfield will be a unique opportunity for travelers, history buffs, and community members to come together and honor the legacy of one of America's most iconic roads. The event will showcase the highway's enduring significance and its impact on the nation's cultural and economic landscape.