

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration
November 11
To mark the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway will host a full-day Statewide Conference and Centennial Celebration at Motorheads Bar & Grill in Springfield. The event is designed for Route 66 enthusiasts, “roadies,” community partners, and both Byway members and non-members, with programming that blends education, recognition, and entertainment.
Event Highlights
Statewide Conference (Daytime)
Dive into the past, present, and future of Illinois Route 66 with sessions led by industry leaders, preservation advocates, and community representatives. Conference topics will center on:
- Preservation of Route 66 heritage
- Economic development along the corridor
- The future of the Mother Road
The conference will open with a celebrity keynote speaker and include updates, tools, and resources for communities and businesses along the Byway.
Awards Gala Luncheon
A midday, ticketed luncheon will recognize individuals, businesses, and communities that have made outstanding contributions to the Route 66 story in Illinois. Awards will spotlight preservation efforts, tourism initiatives, and long-term stewardship.
Epic Centennial Celebration (Evening)
The evening will transition into a large-scale Centennial Celebration in the Motordome at Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum. Highlights include:
- Live entertainment
- Special guests
- Classic car displays
- Ample networking opportunities for Route 66 stakeholders and fans
Tickets & Membership
Both the daytime conference and evening celebration are ticketed events. Discounted pricing will be offered to Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway members.
For updates, detailed schedules, and registration information, visit the official event page as additional details are released.









