It’s the centennial of Route 66! Once again, hundreds of street machines, muscle cars and hot rods will rumble into the heart of Springfield’s historic downtown followed by thousands of spectators for a weekend of family fun, live music and entertainment. The event begins with a huge cruise Friday night, downtown light show and performance by rockers Revel in Red. The main event is the car show from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2p.m. Sunday. But there’s more! A lot more. This year’s event includes the “World Championship Cozy Dog Eating Contest,” tons of live music, a 5K race Sunday and a chance to meet custom car designer Dave Kindig and TV personality Dennis Gage. And you can’t miss the popular burnout competition. See the Facebook page or route66fest.com for a complete event schedule.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Fri., Sept. 25, 6-10 p.m., Sat., Sept. 26, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun., Sept. 27, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Downtown Springfield
217-553-5271
This article appears in September 24-30, 2026.
