The historian Route 66 carry out 100 years and the United States is getting ready to celebrate in style. The official start of the celebrations starts from Springfieldcity symbol of the “Mother Road”, which from April 30 to May 3, 2026 will host the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration. Four days of events, music and reenactments that pay homage to one of the most emblematic roads in the world, capable of embodying the spirit of trip on the road and American freedom.
Springfield, birthplace of Route 66
It is not a coincidence that it is right Springfield to open the centenary celebrations. From here, the April 30, 1926was sent telegram directed to Washington DC with the proposal to assign the number 66 to the new artery that would connect Chicago a Santa Monica. A historical moment that marked the birth of a myth.
The city of Missouri celebrates this connection with the Home of the Route 66 Festivalbut in 2026 the atmosphere will be even more special. The program will be officially opened on April 30 by a great man concert to the Great Southern Bank Arena of Missouri State University, with the Little Big Town and other artists from the American country and rock scene. John Goodman, originally from Missouri, also presents the evening.
Among the most symbolic moments, the dedication of the Place of birth (April 30 at 4 p.m.), with a new artistic installation that remembers the exact point from which the famous telegram started. A tribute that reinforces Springfield’s role as the historic heart of Route 66.
Parades, exhibitions and shows: other events
The program of National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration it is rich and varied, designed for aging enthusiasts, families and travelers. Throughout the weekend, the Gillioz Theater will host a shows itinerant dedicated to the centennial, with photographs and archival materials that tell a century of American history.
Among the most anticipated events is the “Celebrate America on the Route 66 Parade(May 1 at 6 p.m.), an evocative one parade of vintage vehicles produced between 1926 and 1985, which ideally retrace the evolution of road travel. We don’t miss them scenic shows such as the lighting of the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge, accompanied by live music and a modern drone show (May 1 7-9pm).
Fans of historic cars they can instead be immersed in Red, White & Bridge Bash Car Show (2 May 8am-1pm), while those looking for a more elegant experience can participate in the National Route 66 Centennial Telegraph Ball (May 2 at 6 p.m.), gala inspired by the twenties with dinner, swing music, charity auction and retro atmosphere.
To complete the program for May 2, widespread events along the Historic Commercial Route with street food, family activities and non-stop entertainment, as well as the preview screening (May 3) of movie “Dust to Malibu,” filmed largely in Springfield.
Useful information and how to get there
Visit Springfield during the centennial celebration of Route 66 means to live aimmersive experience in American culture. During this period, in Springfield, the weather is particularly favorable: temperatures vary between 18 ° C and 25 ° C, ideal for participating in outdoor events.
Arrive at Springfield from Italy requires a stopover in the United States, with connections to the United States Springfield-Branson National Airport via big centers like Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta or Denver. From the airport, the city center is easily accessible by car or local transport services.
For those who want to participate in the most popular events, such as the inaugural concert, it is recommended to consult the official website. Route 66 kickoff.