Route 66 Centennial Events in 2026 | Gunnison County
Celebration
The designation of Route 66 was finalized on April 30, 1926. This highway, known as the "Mother Road," officially opened on November 11, 1926, eventually extending from Chicago to Los Angeles, a total length of 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers). Route 66 became one of the earliest continuously paved highways in the United States and was a vital passageway for the westward migration. In 2026, the nation will celebrate the centenary of Route 66… 100 years of service to travelers along this "Mother Road"! Below are some popular events along Route 66 in 2026. We wish you a pleasant road trip in 2026—the centenary of Route 66!
Route 66 Centennial National Launch Ceremony, Date: April 30, 2026
Springfield, Missouri has been selected as the official host city for the national launch ceremony of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration. The ceremony will take place at various locations along Route 66, bringing unprecedented special events to the opening of the centennial celebration. The event will create a New Year's Eve atmosphere similar to Times Square, including a large-scale concert featuring A-list celebrities, a car show, food, parades, and more. The event center will be located at the historic Temple Mosque in the city center.
Road Home VII: Route 66 – A Century-Old Adventure, Dates: January 3-12, 2026
This commemorative event begins on January 3, 2026 in Santa Monica, California, and proceeds along Route 66, arriving nine days later in Chicago, Illinois on January 12. The vehicles will then be on display at the world-class Detroit Auto Show on January 14.
Route 66 Centennial Race, Dates: June 20-28, 2026
The Route 66 Centennial Race is a nine-day classic car rally from Illinois to California, set against the backdrop of Route 66, offering car enthusiasts an unforgettable experience. Approximately 130 cars manufactured between 1911 and 1974 will participate.
This will be a unique event on Route 66 in 2026.