The City of Springfield, Missouri, known as the birthplace of Route 66, has been selected as the host city to kick off the Route 66 Centennial Celebration in 2026.
The city was awarded by the U.S. National Route 66 Centennial Commission and the Road Ahead Partnership.
It comes as plans to mark the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road are well advanced across the country.
The Commission is leading the state’s centennial efforts by encouraging community engagement, and promoting Route 66-themed activities.
On April 30, 2026 a kickoff concert will take place at the Historic Shrine Mosque.
The event will be livestreamed worldwide with cross-country cut-ins from other Route 66 cities.
Governor Mike Kehoe praised the designation: “This recognition is a testament to Missouri’s deep roots in the history of America’s most iconic highway and to the communities that keep that legacy alive”
Springfield is also undergoing a transformation while honoring its classic Americana charm.
The city boasts the retro appeal of Red’s Giant Hamburg (the first drive-thru restaurant), vintage neon signs, and the Route 66 Car Museum.
Its revitalized downtown also features trendy restaurants, street art and boutiques.
The city’s attractions include Fantastic Caverns – America’s only ride-thru cave, the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, and cultural landmarks like the restored 1926 Gillioz Theatre.
It also has new experiences like the Ozarks Coffee Trail and the Cashew Chicken Trail which highlight the city’s cuisine and vibrant café culture.
