Dust off your license plate frames and crank up a little nostalgia, U.S. Route 66 turns 100 years old this year. Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road is rolling out a summer of parades, rides, murals and family fun to celebrate.
From the Arcadia Round Barn to the new neon signs throughout Central Rural Electric Cooperative’s service area, Route 66 is calling you to celebrate! Here’s everything you need to know to join the celebration and make your Route 66 centennial visit unforgettable.
Main Street of America Centennial Caravan
A nationwide, multi-week caravan will travel Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles in June, stopping to showcase preservation successes and community celebrations along the way.
Route 66 Mural Fest
July 18 • throughout Oklahoma
This statewide mural fest is planned for mid-July, bringing artists to towns across the state to paint new Route 66-themed works and revitalize Main Street facades. Expect block parties, parades and more!
The 100 Greatest Miles
Oklahoma is celebrating the 100 greatest miles of Route 66 from Edmond to Sapulpa. June 6, there will be a Road Rally with 25 selfie spots and options to win prizes throughout the stretch of road. October 1-3, Sounds on 66 Live Music Festivals will take place in Edmond, Arcadia’s Round Barn, Wellston’s Butcher BBQ Stand and the Chicken Shack in Arcadia.
Route 66 Balloon Festival
September 23-27 • Arcadia
Five days of family-friendly entertainment at the Parkhurst Ranch featuring over a dozen hot air balloons, kite shows, helicopter rides, tethered balloon rides, food trucks, live music and so much more! This event is celebrating Route 66’s centennial in a big way!
Edmond Cycle 66
October 5 • Edmond
Take an unforgettable ride (on a bicycle) through historic Route 66. Choose one of the five races; a
one-mile kids ride; or 18, 33, 66 or 100-mile distances. This event is a great way to celebrate Route 66
with the entire family.
Tune in for more events in Central’s service area throughout the year, as the state celebrates
the Route 66 Centennial!
Route 66 Fun Facts
Sally Carrera from Cars was inspired by Dawn Welch, the owner of the Rock Cafe in Stroud. The character is based on her life, including her experiences running a business on Route 66.
Route 66 was commissioned on November 11, 1926. It spans 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, with more than 40 miles inside Central’s service area.
Route 66 has been decommissioned as an official U.S. Highway since 1985, yet its cultural power has kept it alive through preservation groups.