Upcoming Route 66 Centennial Events

Join the national Route 66 Centennial Speaker Series on the second Tuesday of every month where notable authors, historians and advocates come together to share their stories. This webinar series will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the nation’s beloved Mother Road. (11:00 PT/12:00 MT/1:00 CT/2:00 ET)

The Dirt Oval @ Route 66 Raceway
3200 S. Chicago Street
Joliet, IL 60433

Chicagolands Largest Outdoor Halloween Event

Gates open 3:00 PM Trunk Or Treat

Show Time 5:00PM

Live band,Costume contest $1500 overall winner!
Kids power wheels racing,
RV Demo Derby, School Bus Racing, Trailer Racing, Lawn Mower Demo Derby, Fireworks Finale!

Join the national Route 66 Centennial Speaker Series on the second Tuesday of every month where notable authors, historians and advocates come together to share their stories. This webinar series will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the nation’s beloved Mother Road. (11:00 PT/12:00 MT/1:00 CT/2:00 ET)

The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is thrilled to announce its Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration taking place on November 11, 2026, at Motorheads in Springfield, Illinois. This momentous event marks the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66 and invites enthusiasts, roadies, Byway members, and non-members to join in a full day of education, recognition, and celebration. Check for updates: https://illinoisroute66.org/event/illinois-route-66-scenic-byway-announces-statewide-conference-epic-route-66-centennial-celebration/.

The 25th Annual Route 66 Film Festival takes place November 20-22 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts in Springfield IL. 

Join us Saturday, November 28, 2026, at the Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield! Enjoy holiday entertainment, Santa, Bluey & Bingo, and a local marketplace. Doors open 9 AM–4 PM; admission is $5 ages 13+, with ages 12 and under free. Come early and celebrate local businesses!

2026 Illinois Local Event Schedule
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Orr Building — Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, Illinois
Event Hours
9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Doors Open - Shop Local Marketplace, Children's Play Area, & FREE Holiday Crafts
9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Bluey & Bingo — Photos & Meet-and-Greet
9:30 AM: Springfield Youth Performance Group — Excerpts of The Nutcracker
10:00 AM–2:00 PM: Santa — Write your letter to Santa, post it, and get your photo taken.
10:00 AM: Happy Hour Pilates & Pear Tree Pups — Pilates & Pups Class
11:00 AM: Music Therapy Connections
12:00 PM: Shop Local Marketplace & Holiday Activities
1:00 PM: Springfield Theater Center — Excerpt of White Christmas
2:00 PM: Dayna’s Dance Revolution
3:00 PM: 2026 Illinois Local Annual Awards Presentation
4:00 PM: Doors Close
Throughout the event shop local vendors offering food, baked goods, clothing, gifts, home goods, candles, festive drinks, holiday treats and more.

Join the national Route 66 Centennial Speaker Series on the second Tuesday of every month where notable authors, historians and advocates come together to share their stories. This webinar series will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the nation’s beloved Mother Road. (11:00 PT/12:00 MT/1:00 CT/2:00 ET)

Founded in 1926, the Pontiac Holiday Tournament is America's original high school boys basketball holiday tournament. All 26 games are hosted at Pontiac Township High School and the full schedule can be found at www.pontiacholidaytournament.com. Celebrate the founding of Route 66 as we celebrate the founding of America's original holiday tournament!