Historic Trucks to Roll into Springfield for Route 66 Centennial

American Truck Historical Society's annual convention part of 100th anniversary celebrations

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:36am

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A colorful, abstract image of a convoy of vintage trucks on Route 66, their motion blurred into sweeping streaks of vibrant hues, conveying the speed and energy of the trucking industry's role in the highway's legacy.A historic convoy of classic trucks celebrates the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66 highway.Springfield Today

Hundreds of classic and rare trucks will converge in Springfield, Missouri this June as the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS) hosts its annual National Convention & Truck Show as part of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration. The weeklong event from June 2-6 will feature a main show on June 4-6 at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, offering spectators a chance to see restored vintage trucks and learn about the history of trucking along the iconic highway.

Why it matters

As a key stop along historic Route 66, Springfield provides the perfect backdrop to honor the legacy of trucking and its role in the development of the legendary highway. The ATHS convention is an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial, celebrating 100 years since the highway's establishment.

The details

The ATHS convention will showcase hundreds of trucks ranging from restored classics to rare working rigs. Attendees can expect educational sessions, hands-on demonstrations, vendor exhibits, and an evening light show highlighting the trucks. A raffle will also be held for VIP tickets to a NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway in September.

  • The weeklong ATHS event begins on June 2 with trucks arriving at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds.
  • The main show event is scheduled for June 4-6.

The players

American Truck Historical Society (ATHS)

A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the trucking industry in the United States.

Courtney Cesar

ATHS convention organizer.

Peter Wild

ATHS Convention Committee Chair.

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What they’re saying

“ATHS is proud to be an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration. There's no better way to celebrate Route 66 than with the trucks that helped build it.”

— Courtney Cesar, ATHS convention organizer

“Each of these trucks has its own story and craftsmanship. The convention provides a welcoming space for all trucking enthusiasts to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share the passion for trucking history during the show and at special events throughout the week.”

— Peter Wild, ATHS Convention Committee Chair

What’s next

Visitors can also explore Springfield's Route 66 landmarks, including the Route 66 Visitor Center, local museums, and roadside attractions such as the World's Largest Fork and the Birthplace of Route 66 sign.

The takeaway

The ATHS convention's inclusion as an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration underscores the important role that trucks and the trucking industry played in the development and legacy of the iconic highway. This event provides a unique opportunity for truck enthusiasts to connect with the history and evolution of the industry.