Celebrate 100 years of the Mother Road along its 301-mile journey in Illinois. Communities across the state are hosting centennial events all year long, and you’re invited to be part of this once-in-a-century experience.
66ers Celebrate Route 66
January 1-November 30, 2026
For select athletic events throughout the year, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will play as the 66ers, honoring the city’s history with Route 66.
Main Street of America World Premier
September 3-10, 2026
Chicago will host the premiere of award-winning filmmaker John Paget's new feature-length documentary, with more screenings across Illinois.
25th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
SEPTEMBER 25th-27th, 2026
2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66! Celebrate this occasion at the 25th annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in Springfield’s historic downtown Sept 25-27!
Illinois Route 66 Statewide Conference & Centennial Celebration at Route 66 Motorhead's
November 11th, 2026
The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is thrilled to announce its Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration taking place on November 11, 2026, at Motorheads in Springfield, Illinois. This momentous event marks the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66 and invites enthusiasts, roadies, Byway members, and non-members to join in a full day of education, recognition, and celebration.
Route 66 Bob Waldmire Art Exhibit, June-December, 2026
Bob Waldmire - Nomadic Hippie, gifted artist, and Route 66 icon. Immerse yourself in the legend's creative expressions and awe-inspiring attention to detail, celebrating the nostalgia and culture of Route 66.
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Exploring Route 66 at The Kidzeum of Health & Science, July-December, 2026
This brand-new exhibit invites guests to hit the road on a hands-on journey down America’s most iconic highway. Families will explore science, history, and culture through interactive experiences inspired by Route 66 travel and innovation. Kids can f
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Route 66: The Main Street of America Screening at Route 66 Motorhead's
Catch a special screening of Route 66 The Main Street of America at Route 66 Motorhead's on September 8th.
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Last 100 Miles Festival, October 10-11, 2026
Southwest Illinois—home to the state’s final stretch of Route 66—is hosting a region-wide celebration across communities along the route.
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Statewide Conference & Route 66 Epic Festival, November 10-11, 2026
The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Association is celebrating the Mother Road’s past and future with an extra special weekend.
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Route 66 International Film Festival at the Hoogland Center for the Arts
Welcome to the captivating world of the Route 66 Film Festival – an event that seamlessly merges the allure of cinema with the spirit of adventure.
Learn More Learn MoreDiscover even more events for the Route 66 Centennial here.