Route 66 Centennial
Illinois Events 2026
From Chicago's Birthday Kickoff to Springfield's Mother Road Festival — three unforgettable celebrations along the Land of Lincoln's stretch of Route 66.
3
Events
3
Cities
2
Free Events
APR
25
Route 66 Birthday Kickoff — Chicago
The official launch of Route 66 centennial celebrations, featuring a ceremonial first drive departing from the Begin Sign at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. Classic car caravan following the original Route 66 alignment through the city, live music at Grant Park, Route 66 history exhibition, and food vendors serving dishes from iconic Mother Road restaurants across all eight states.
What to Expect
JUN
13
Pontiac Route 66 Hall of Fame Gala
Annual gala at the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum featuring the Hall of Fame induction ceremony honoring individuals who made extraordinary contributions to preserving Route 66. The 2026 centennial edition includes inductees from all eight Route 66 states, guided mural tours through downtown Pontiac, classic car cruise, Route 66 memorabilia auction, and special museum exhibits.
What to Expect
SEP
25
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival — Springfield
Springfield's premier Route 66 celebration and the biggest Mother Road festival in Illinois. Centennial edition features hundreds of classic and vintage cars lining downtown streets, live music on multiple stages, Route 66 food vendors including Cozy Dog Drive In, Saturday evening cruise down the original Route 66 alignment, history talks by Route 66 authors and preservationists, and a Cozy Dog eating contest.
What to Expect
Plan Your Visit
Book Springfield Early
Book Springfield hotels months ahead for the September festival — it's the biggest Route 66 event in Illinois.
Chicago Accommodations
Chicago has unlimited hotel options but the Birthday Kickoff weekend will be busy downtown.
Pontiac Gala Tickets
The Pontiac Gala dinner requires advance tickets — daytime events are free.
Drive the Full Route
Consider driving the full Illinois Route 66 (301 miles) during event weekends.