7.9 mi
Six on 66 Monument in Hamel, Illinois
Categories: Illinois Route 66 Itineraries
Attraction Type: Roadside Attraction, Interactive Photo Ops, Route 66 Sign
State: Illinois
- This event has passed.
Edwardsville’s long-running Route 66 Festival returns in 2026 with an extra dose of celebration as the Mother Road turns 100. For more than 25 years, this annual event has honored the city’s deep ties to Route 66—and this year’s Centennial edition promises to go the extra mile.
Festivities kick off at 8:00 a.m. with the annual Route 66 10K race. Park events run from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. in City Park (101 S. Buchanan Street), right along the historic Route 66 alignment in downtown Edwardsville.
Festival Highlights
Classic Car Show & Cruise
Admire vintage vehicles and hot rods throughout the day, then catch the evening cruise as classic cars roll along a stretch of historic Route 66.
Edwardsville Route 66 Exhibition
Explore the city’s Route 66 story through special displays and exhibits celebrating the year 1926—the year it all began.
Roadside Market
Browse local vendors offering food, art, crafts, and Route 66-themed merchandise.
Kids’ Zone
Family-friendly activities designed to keep younger festivalgoers entertained throughout the day.
Live Music & Entertainment
Enjoy performances from local and regional musicians as the festival carries into the evening.
Trolley Tours & Photo Ops
Take advantage of guided trolley tours and snap a photo with your classic car in front of the retro pumps at the West End Service Station Route 66 Visitor Center, which will feature a special exhibit titled “1926 – The Year That Started It All.”
From morning races to nighttime cruising, the Edwardsville Route 66 Festival offers a full day of cars, music, history, and community spirit in the heart of downtown. Mark your calendar for June 13, 2026, and celebrate 100 years of the Mother Road in a city that has proudly carried its legacy for generations.
Disclaimer: Route 66 Road Map is not affiliated with these events or the event organizers. The events listed on this page are hosted by external organizations and are subject to change. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, event dates, times, locations, itineraries, and other details may be modified or canceled by the event organizers. We recommend verifying all event information directly with the official event organizers before making travel plans.
