Springfield, Missouri Kicks Off Route 66's 100th Anniversary

Country music stars headline the 4-day celebration marking the historic highway's centennial.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 100th anniversary of Route 66 is officially set, and some big names in country music are helping kick off the celebration in Springfield, Missouri - the birthplace of the famous highway. The 4-day National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration will feature live broadcasts, concerts, and other events to commemorate the highway's 100-year history.

Why it matters

Route 66 is one of the most iconic and well-known highways in America, consistently ranking as one of the best road trips. The 100th anniversary celebration in Springfield, the highway's birthplace, will draw visitors from across the country to experience the history and culture of this legendary route.

The details

The celebration will kick off with the TODAY Show broadcasting live from Springfield. Several country music stars including Little Big Town, Chris Janson, Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts, and Gretchen Wilson will perform at the festivities. Other events include the Red, White & Bridge Bash, a Route 66-themed ArtsFest, and a choreographed light, sound, and drone show.

  • The 4-day National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration will take place April 30 through May 3, 2026.
  • The Red, White & Bridge Bash will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026.
  • The Route 66-themed ArtsFest on Walnut Street will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

The players

Route 66

One of the most iconic and well-known highways in America, consistently ranking as one of the best road trips.

Springfield, Missouri

The birthplace of Route 66, where a telegram proposing the name 'U.S. Route 66' was sent to federal highway officials in 1926.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

It's shaping up to be a huge year of celebration across the country, and it sounds like a whole lot of fun.

The takeaway

The 100th anniversary celebration of Route 66 in Springfield, the highway's birthplace, will be a major draw for visitors from across the country to experience the history and culture of this iconic American road trip.