The National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff is coming to Springfield April 30, 2026 to May 3, 2026 in Springfield, Missouri. Here’s everything you need to know about the event and why you should attend.
Why is Springfield considered the Birthplace of Route 66?
On April 30, 1926, at the Colonial Hotel, Springfield businessman John T. Woodruff and Oklahoma businessman Cy Avery first proposed U.S. 66 as the name of the new Chicago-to-Los Angeles highway via telegram. The famous route runs across the city from Kearney Street to Glenstone Avenue to St. Louis Street, through Park Central Square to Olive and College Streets, then heads west along what is now Chestnut Expressway.
You can see a historic marker and new Birthplace Signage at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Park Central East, where the Colonial Hotel once stood.
What will be happening during the Route 66 Centennial Kickoff?
There will be a wide variety of events such as a concert with a-list entertainment, landmark dedications, classic car parade, classic car show, Jefferson Ave. Footbridge Bash, Telegraph Ball and so much more happening over the course of several days. More information about each can be found here.
What is the schedule of events for the Centennial Kickoff?
NBC’s live broadcast of The TODAY Show “3rd Hour”: April 30th, 2026 8 a.m.
Concert: April 30th, 2026. Gates open at 4 p.m.
Birthplace Plaza Dedication: April 30th, 2026 4 p.m.
Queen’s Gate 66 Dedication: May 1, 2026 11 a.m.
First Friday Artwalk: May 1, 2026 4:30–10 p.m.
National Route 66 Centennial Parade: May 1, 2026 6 p.m.
Classic Car Show on Historic C-Street: May 2, 2026 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Artsfest: May 2–3, 2026 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Jefferson Avenue Footbridge Dedication: May 2, 2026 4 p.m.
Telegraph Ball: May 2, 2026 7 p.m.
Is the event free?
Dedications, First Friday Artwalk, the Classic Car Show and Parade are free to attend but the concert, Telegraph Ball and Artsfest have separate costs associated.
Who is playing at the concert?
Little Big Town, Chris Janson, Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts, Gretchen Wilson, Ozark Mountain Daredevils and The Haygoods will be performing at the concert. Concert tickets can be bought here starting Jan. 30.
I’m coming into town for this event, where should I stay?
If you're coming out of town and plan to stay through the entire event, you'll want to arrange accommodations. Visit our Places to Stay page on our website for a comprehensive list of hotels in the area.
Feel free to also visit our Route 66 planning page to fully plan your trip.
Where can I park during these events?
Many events will be located downtown and there are lots of parking options downtown! Check out this map that lists all of the different parking lots and garages.
What other Route 66 Attractions are there to see?
There are many historic Route 66 stops you can see in and around Springfield. See our blog post for a full list of iconic stops.
What is the weather like in Springfield during April into May?
You can expect the weather to be in the mid-60s during this time of year with a slight chance of rain.
Where can I find more information about this event?
Head to route66kickoff.com for more information about all the events, as the most up-to-date information will be released there!
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