The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway earlier this week announced a Route 66 centennial event in 2026 — the first of many that will be scheduled that year.
The byway’s Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration will take place on Nov. 11, 2026, at Route 66 Motorheads in Springfield, Illinois, it announced in a news release.
“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,” the release stated.
The release also put out a tentative schedule of events:
Statewide Conference: Engage with industry leaders, Route 66 advocates and community members to explore the rich history and promising future of Illinois Route 66. Sessions will feature updates, resources and insights to celebrate and preserve the Mother Road. Conference sessions will focus on Preservation, Economic Development & the Future of Route 66. A celebrity keynote speaker will kick off the conference.
Awards Gala Luncheon: Honoring individuals, businesses and communities making significant contributions to Route 66’s legacy. This midday gathering includes a ticketed luncheon.
Epic Centennial Celebration: A grand celebration of Route 66’s 100th anniversary featuring live entertainment in the Motordome at Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum, special guests, classic cars and networking opportunities.
Both the Conference and Centennial Celebration will be ticketed events. Discounts will be available exclusively for Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway members.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and we’re excited to bring together the Route 66 community to celebrate the history of the Mother Road, recognize its champions, and share its enduring legacy with the world,” said Casey Claypool, Executive Director.
The byway stated that updates and additional details for the event would be posted on its website later.
Nov. 11, 1926, is considered the official birth date of Route 66 and other U.S. highways when the United States Numbered Highway System was approved.
However, the number for the Chicago-to-Los Angeles highway first was proposed on April 30, 1926, at the Colonial Hotel in Springfield, Missouri.
So the birthdate still is disputed in some quarters.
The Illinois Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership announced last month it was issuing a request for proposals for an official Route 66 Centennial Kick-Off Host City on April 30, 2026, but that city won’t be chosen until February at the earliest.
(Image of Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill in Springfield, Illinois, by Warren LeMay via Flickr)