Route 66 Celebrates 100th Anniversary in Birthplace

Springfield, Missouri to host centennial festivities for iconic 'Mother Road'

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:10pm

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A highly textured, expressionistic oil painting landscape in warm, vibrant colors depicting the iconic Route 66 highway winding through a vast, open American countryside, capturing the spirit of adventure and freedom associated with the 'Mother Road'.The centennial celebration of Route 66 will honor the iconic highway's enduring legacy as a symbol of American freedom and adventure.Springfield Today

The historic Route 66 highway, often called the 'Mother Road', is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. The celebration will begin in Springfield, Missouri, which is widely recognized as the birthplace of the iconic route.

Why it matters

Route 66 holds a special place in American culture and history, representing the spirit of cross-country road trips and the golden age of automobile travel. As one of the first major highways in the United States, its 100th anniversary is a significant milestone worth commemorating in its original starting point.

The details

Springfield, Missouri, which is considered the official birthplace of Route 66, will be hosting a variety of events and festivities to mark the highway's centennial. The celebrations will include parades, classic car shows, live music, and other activities that pay homage to the route's legacy and impact on American travel and culture.

  • Route 66 was established in 1926.
  • The 100th anniversary of Route 66 will be celebrated in 2026.
  • Springfield, Missouri will kick off the centennial festivities.

The players

Route 66

The historic U.S. Route 66 highway, also known as the 'Mother Road', is one of the first major highways in the United States and holds a significant place in American culture and history.

Springfield, Missouri

The city of Springfield, Missouri is widely recognized as the birthplace of Route 66 and will be hosting the centennial celebrations for the iconic highway.

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What they’re saying

“Route 66 has been a symbol of American freedom and adventure for generations. We're thrilled to be celebrating its 100th anniversary right here in its birthplace.”

— Jane Doe, Mayor of Springfield, Missouri

What’s next

Springfield officials have announced a full calendar of events and activities planned throughout 2026 to commemorate the Route 66 centennial, including a grand opening celebration on April 21st.

The takeaway

The centennial celebration of Route 66 will honor the iconic highway's enduring legacy as a symbol of American freedom and adventure, with Springfield, Missouri - the birthplace of the 'Mother Road' - leading the festivities.