Route 66 Centennial
Events for July 24, 2026
Route 66 Bob Waldmire Art Exhibit at The Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space
In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, The Pharmacy will host a special Bob Waldmire Art Exhibit Bob Waldmire - Nomadic Hippie, gifted artist, and Route 66 icon.…
Route 66: The Road That Takes You Photographic Exhibition by David J. Schwartz
Route 66: The Road That Takes You — Springfield Edition is a photography exhibition by Lakewood, Ohio photographer David J. Schwartz, whose work was selected for the official USPS Route…
“Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” Exhibit at Illinois State Museum
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Museum (ISM) invites the public to get their kicks at a new “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit May 23, 2026 - April 4, 2027. The exhibition brings to life the experience of living, working and traveling along U.S. Route 66 during its heyday. The exhibit incorporates the…
Route 66 Submerged: A Sunken Road. A Story Resurfaced.
Step aboard Route 66 SUBMERGED, a 45-minute interpretive boat tour on Lake Springfield that reveals a hidden chapter of America’s most iconic highway. Beneath the surface lies a stretch of Springfield’s original Route 66 alignment, submerged when Sugar Creek was dammed in 1933. Guided by local storytellers this immersive journey blends history, nature, and narrative—offering…
2026 History Comes Alive Summer Experience
History Comes Alive — “Celebrate America — Stories that Built America! Experience the spirit of Lincoln’s hometown, where history comes alive through unforgettable costumed reenactors, Route 66 treasures, and inspiring moments honoring America’s 250th birthday. Embark on a captivating journey as you encounter Mr. & Mrs. Lincoln and the largest cast of characters we’ve had…
Gillespie Streetscape Project Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
We’re hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Gillespie Streetscape Project. Join us at 10am at the corner of Macoupin & Pine Streets for this very exciting moment! Deputy Governor Andy Manar will be the keynote speaker. The event is being held in conjunction with Grow Gillespie, Gillespie Fourth Fridays and Gillespie Colonial Giving Garden.…
Gillespie Fourth Fridays July
Gillespie Fourth Fridays runs July through October in 2026, with the kickoff this Friday eve. Brick and Mortar night is from 5-9pm, and features local shopping, restaurant specials, a book signing by Jim Marcacci at Illinois Coal Museum, movie night at Colonial Giving Garden and more! At the Grow Gillespie Colonial Giving Garden, at the…
Girard Festival Days 2026 – Rolling Through 100 Years!
We’re gearing up for one of the biggest celebrations our community has ever seen — honoring 100 years of memories, milestones, and the magic of Route 66. This year’s Festival…