Springfield, Missouri Kicks Off Route 66’s 100th Anniversary

The 100th anniversary of Route 66 is officially set, and some big names in country music are helping kick off the celebration.

Why Springfield Is the Birthplace of Route 66

The four-day National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration will take place April 30 through May 3 in Springfield, Missouri. Springfield is known as the birthplace of the famous highway because a telegram proposing the name “U.S. Route 66” was sent from Springfield to federal highway officials back in 1926.

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Country Music Stars Headline the Celebration

The celebration will kick off in a big way, with NBC’s TODAY Show broadcasting its third hour live from Springfield. Several well-known country artists will also be part of the festivities, including Little Big Town, Chris Janson, Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts, and Gretchen Wilson. Tickets are on sale now.

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Weekend Events Planned for the Route 66 Centennial

Other events during the celebration include the Red, White & Bridge Bash from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, followed by the lighting of the historic footbridge with a choreographed light, sound, and drone show. Saturday continues with the Red, White & Bridge Bash on Commercial Street from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., along with a Route 66-themed ArtsFest on Walnut Street from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

We’re always talking about Route 66, and it consistently lands on lists of the best road trips in America. You might want to consider hitting the road this year, because Springfield won’t be the only town celebrating. Communities all along Route 66 are expected to host events and recognitions, especially with America’s 250th birthday also being celebrated.

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It’s shaping up to be a huge year of celebration across the country, and it sounds like a whole lot of fun.