A national Route 66 Beef Trail has been established and is encouraging Route 66 travelers to visit various locations along the Mother Road this summer.

As summer road trip season kicks into high gear, The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand—funded by Beef farmers and ranchers—is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a flavorful new way to experience the Mother Road. The Route 66 Beef Trail has a free, mobile‑exclusive digital passport that guides road trippers to legendary steakhouses, barbecue joints, cultural attractions and beef‑rich history across all eight Route 66 states. Along the way travelers can check in at participating stops, earn prizes and discover the how America’s most storied highway is deeply rooted in the nation’s beef heritage.

The trail covers all eight states from Illinois to California and features eleven stops in Oklahoma. After signing up, visitors receive a mobile pass via text or email—no app required. At each participating restaurant or attraction, simply show your phone to redeem deals, learn about local beef heritage, and collect points toward exclusive Route 66 Beef Trail rewards.

“Along the way, travelers can enjoy everything from classic diners and historic stockyards to modern barbecue favorites and iconic roadside eateries,” said a press release. “Stops span all eight Route 66 states—Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California—offering a curated lineup of beef hotspots and cultural landmarks that capture the spirit of the open road.”

Participants who check in at designated locations can earn commemorative stickers, collectible merchandise, Route 66-themed gear and entries into grand-prize drawings. No purchase is necessary to participate.

To learn more and plan your own journey, visit the Route 66 Beef Trail home page.

Have you ever seen a Pictorial Postmark? On special occasions, the United States Postal Service can offer unique, commemorative cancellation stamps, or postmarks, at specific post offices to help celebrate local events and dates of significance. The Centennial of Route 66 is just such an occasion and multiple postmarks are being offered at various times this year.

Inspired by a postmark offered in Seligman, Arizona, the Oklahoma Route 66 Association began working with the Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore, Oklahoma earlier in 2026 to create a Will Rogers Highway postmark. It will be offered in Wellston, Oklahoma on June 18th at the unveiling of a new Will Rogers Highway granite marker. The marker will be unveiled at 3402 U.S. Route 66 in Wellston - just before the Y of Highway OK-66b if you’re heading west - in collaboration with the Butcher BBQ Stand restaurant and Yaya’s Matchstick Collectibles. A temporary postal station will be set up for the event itself, which starts at about 11:15 AM as the Route 66 Centennial Caravan arrives from Oklahoma City.

Additionally, the town of Erick, Oklahoma has created a special commemorative postmark for the Centennial that will be available starting on July 7th. This will be available for 30 days at the town’s post office. Advocates in the city of Tulsa are also working to get a special Centennial postmark later this year; more details to come.

If you cannot attend an event in person but you wish to get the postmark, anyone can submit a mail order request. To do so, you must send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the offering post office. It’s also a good idea to insert a letter, a postcard, or another item inside the self-addressed envelope to ensure its sturdiness as it comes back to you. Be sure you address your external envelope to PICTORIAL POSTMARK along with the post office address. We recommend using one of the new Route 66 stamps, of course!

You can also send stamped envelopes and postcards without addresses for postmark, as long as you also send a larger envelope with adequate postage and a return address. There are also commemorative cachets, or decorative envelope, which are available from a variety of collector resources.

Across the Tracks: A Route 66 Story is coming to Public Radio Tulsa over the next few weeks, starting on Thursday, June 4th and continuing over the next two weeks.

Across the Tracks is a three-part radio documentary that examines the influence of Route 66 across time and culture. Dr. David Dunaway of New Mexico conducted a significant amount of oral history interviews for this project, which originally aired in 2001 and was heard across more than 200 radio stations across the country.

For Route 66’s 100th anniversary, this remarkable series has been made available to stations again in celebration of the road’s milestone. Hosted by the late Martin Milner, star of the Route 66 TV series from the 1960s, the series guides listeners through the road’s history and its influence on modern American culture. In addition to Milner, listeners get to hear the story of Route 66 through interviews from Route 66 historians, roadies, business owners, and many others.

Public Radio Tulsa will air episode one of this series twice: Thursday, June 4th, at noon and Friday, June 5th at 8:00 PM. Episodes two and three will air the following two weeks on the same days at the same times. Interested listeners not in the broadcast area can tune in online at https://www.publicradiotulsa.org/.

A small business in Depew, Oklahoma - the town that has the distinction of being the first town bypassed by a Route 66 re-alignment - received a huge boost with a grant from American Express.

D's Creations, a local boutique and micro-market located on historic Route 66, has been selected as a recipient of an AMEX Shop Small® Grant from American Express® and Main Street America. The grant will provide D' s Creations with $20,000 in funding to transform its historic 1926 storefront into a high-tech manufacturing hub and expanded grocery destination for the Depew community.

The project, titled "Securing Depew's Future," will allow for:

• Industrial Expansion: Installation of industrial embroidery and DTF printing systems to automate production for local schools and Route 66 tourism.

• Cold Storage Infrastructure: New commercial-grade refrigeration to triple the shop's capacity for locally sourced, grass-fed beef and organic produce.

• Community Investment: A commitment to continue the Annual Back to School Bash, which provides free supplies and haircuts to hundreds of local children.

"When the corporate dollar store moved in and our local market closed, our town faced a crisis," said Destiny Parrick, owner of D's Creations. "I didn't want to see our seniors and residents struggling to find fresh food. This grant allows us to buy the industrial freezers and printing equipment we need to grow. We’re staying right here on the Mother Road, and we're proving that Depew isn't just surviving—we’re thriving."

The program was initially launched with a $5 million contribution to support 250 small businesses in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Through a Small Business Saturday giving pledge, an additional $1 was given to the grant program for eligible transactions made on Small Business Saturday, and American Express contributed an additional $5.1 million—expanding the program’s reach and impact to small businesses and the communities they serve. The 505 recipients reflect the vitality of U.S. small businesses, spanning industries from retail and food service to healthcare and professional services.

“Small businesses play a vital role in our communities,” said Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, American Express. “The Shop Small Grants Program builds on our longstanding commitment to small businesses, which began with Small Business Saturday, by putting meaningful investment behind the people and places that drive local impact.”

“At Main Street America, we believe that supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses builds community wealth and a culture of innovation – yet, far too often, this vision isn’t realized due to a variety of factors, including lack of access to resources and funding,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America. “This is why we are so proud to partner with American Express on a program that provides meaningful support to small business owners working to strengthen their livelihoods and their communities.”

It was a moment that will live on in Tulsa, Route 66 and American history forever, but not everyone drove away from Tulsa’s Capital Cruise satisfied.

At approximately 11:52 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, official Guinness World Records adjudicator Michael Empric stepped to the stage and gave the news all of Route 66 was waiting on. 

The first car entered the Cruise route at 8:00 a.m., beginning approximately four hours of continuous parade operations, with cars passing the adjudicator stage at a rate of 1,000 cars per hour. After deductions for stalled/disabled vehicles, gaps in the parade longer than two car lengths and non-compliant vehicles, the official world record total is 3,596—1,105 cars more than the previous record.  

“I am so proud of Tulsa and so thrilled to set a new world record,” said Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols. “Tulsa’s Route 66 Capital Cruise was a nearly year-long effort from partners all over Tulsa to remind the world that we are the Capital of Route 66® and that no city does things the way Tulsa does. Now, for the next hundred years, whenever anyone mentions the Centennial of Route 66, they’ll remember Tulsa, Oklahoma.” 

Mayor Nichols was one of the Cruise’s grand marshals, along with Route 66 historian and author Michael Wallis, Vice Grip Garage founder Derek Bieri, family of the Father of Route 66 Cyrus Avery—led by grandson Bob Berghell—and Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell.  

“For years, we have looked to 2026 as a Super Bowl in Oklahoma, and today, Tulsa delivered,” said Lt. Governor Pinnell. “Capital Cruise was a massive undertaking, and it paid off in a massive way, nearly doubling the existing world record, proving that Route 66 is not just central to the history of Oklahoma, but the future as well. Congratulations, Tulsa! Here’s to the next hundred years of the Mother Road.” 

In all, drivers from 42 states, Canada and France participated in Capital Cruise, bringing more international attention to all corners of Tulsa: north to south, east to west. 

“All I can say is, ‘Of course we did!’ Because Tulsa has never relented its spirit when it sets its mind to a thing,” said Tulsa Route 66 Commission Chair, Tulsa City Council Vice Chair and Tulsa City Councilor for District 6 Christian Bengel. “It’s who we are. I always believed we would set the record, but never in my own vision of its grandeur and splendor did I imagine Capital Cruise becoming such a shared and anticipated worldwide phenomenon. I said Tulsa had the true moxie to show out, show off, and continue our legacy of being legendary, and I couldn’t be prouder of our city. The memory of seeing thousands of classic cars rolling down Route 66 will forever be imprinted on my mind. Congratulations Tulsa, take a bow!” 

In a later statement, Visit Tulsa acknowledged that not every driver that registered was able to participate. Furthermore, they said that any checked-in driver who was unable to enter the Cruise route will have the opportunity to request a refund of their registration fee in a communication sent to their registered email in the coming days. Those drivers are still official world-record holders and considered full participants in Tulsa’s Route 66 Capital Cruise. 

“We have been talking about Capital Cruise for almost a full year, and today we definitely got our kicks on Route 66!” said Renee McKenney, senior vice president of tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber and president of Tulsa Regional Tourism. “What an amazing effort from everyone across the city to make Capital Cruise a success in the Capital of Route 66®. That community pride drives visitors to Tulsa to experience history and celebrate the Route 66 Centennial together. I am so proud of our city for continuing to make moments that resonate on the world’s biggest stage.” 

Over the course of the route, 16 different Cruise Party Zones turned parking lots into block parties for spectators, making this not just a parade to watch, but a party to participate in. An authentic Route 66-era Oklahoma Highway Patrol car was the final car.

If you’ve ever traveled Route 66 through Tulsa, you probably drove right by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and didn’t even know it. It sits next to Fire Station 4 and is home to the Tulsa Greek Festival, the oldest ethnic festival in the city, and in 2026 they will be celebrating their 66th annual event.

This year’s Greek Festival, which takes place September 17-19, holds special significance as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of Route 66, making the event a unique celebration of both Greek heritage and one of America’s most iconic highways.

Festival highlights this year include:

• Authentic Greek cuisine such as gyros, souvlaki, baklava and loukoumathes

• Traditional Greek music and folk dance performances

• Church tours showcasing Greek Orthodox faith and traditions

• A marketplace featuring Greek imports, jewelry, and gifts

“Holy Trinity has proudly been part of Tulsa’s Route 66 corridor for generations, and we’re excited to share our culture and traditions with the community in this historic year,” said a press release about the event. “Whether you attend for the food, music, dancing, or the overall cultural experience, the Tulsa Greek Festival continues to honor its mission of sharing Greek heritage while bringing our Tulsa community together.”

“Oklahoma’s Route 66 corridor has a rich cultural diversity, from the Asian District and 39th Street District in Oklahoma City to the Czech community in Yukon to the Greek Festival in Tulsa,” said Oklahoma Route 66 Association President Rhys Martin. “The best part of any Route 66 road trip is connecting with the people along the way. When that is combined with experiencing different cultural traditions, you get an experience you’ll never forget.”

You can get more information at https://tulsagreekfestival.com/.

The Innovators Educational Foundation’s 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC) has been officially designated a Route 66 Centennial Project.

The 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) and the Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC) will bring together collegiate teams from across the United States and around the world to design, build, and compete with their solar-powered vehicles in one of the most comprehensive STEM-based experiential learning programs in the country.

Students spend one to two years preparing their vehicles, culminating in a multi-stage competition that tests engineering, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving.

The program begins July 17 to 23, 2026, at Brainerd International Raceway, where teams will undergo an extensive technical inspection before competing in a three-day endurance track event, the Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix. Teams that successfully demonstrate vehicle safety and performance will advance to the Electrek American Solar Challenge.

Following a public display day in Minneapolis on July 24, teams will embark on a more than 1,500-mile road journey from Minneapolis to Amarillo from July 25 through August 1. The route includes significant stretches of the historic Route 66, as well as the scenic Great River Road.

Along the way, teams will stop in communities including LaCrosse, Normal, Edwardsville, Rolla, Carthage, Tulsa, and Elk City, engaging with local communities, media, and route 66 enthusiasts.

“The designation of the American Solar Challenge as an official Route 66 Centennial Project highlights the powerful connection between innovation and heritage,” said Bill Thomas, Chair of the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership and Commissioner for the Route 66 Centennial Commission.

“As these student teams travel along historic stretches of Route 66, they are not only honoring its legacy but also demonstrating the future of transportation through clean energy and ingenuity.”

The American Solar Challenge is divided into stages with mandatory checkpoints and stage stops, where teams interact with the public and are evaluated on performance and progress. Participants must navigate real-world conditions—including terrain, traffic, and weather—while managing solar energy and battery storage. Winners are determined based on total miles completed and, for multi-occupant vehicles, additional factors such as passenger miles and practicality.

“We are thrilled for the solar cars and these university students to travel the iconic Route 66 since the first time the solar car event traveled the Mother Road 25 years ago,” said Gail Lueck, Event Director for the Electrek American Solar Challenge and Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix and Operations Director and Board Member of the Innovators Educational Foundation.

“Having the Electrek American Solar Challenge 2026 officially recognized as part of the Route 66 Centennial is a great honor, and we look forward to celebrating with the communities along Route 66 as the solar cars make their way from Normal, IL to our finish in Amarillo, TX.”

The 2026 Electrek solar car events promise to showcase cutting-edge renewable energy technology while celebrating the enduring spirit of exploration and innovation that defines Route 66.

For more information, visit: https://route66centennial.org/index.php/celebrate/electrek-american-solar-challenge or download the Overview Schedule here.

ROUTE 66, USA (May 12, 2026) – The Route 66 Main Street of America Centennial Caravan, organized by the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership and other partners, has announced its daily schedule for a summer road trip celebrating 100 years of the world’s most iconic highway, known fondly as the “Mother Road.”

The caravan, made up of representatives from all eight states the highway passes through, will depart Saturday, June 6, from Santa Monica and arrive on June 25 in Chicago. While historically many traveled westward, the organization intentionally chose an eastbound route to maximize community engagement and interaction with travelers along the way.

“Route 66 runs both ways,” said Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and Manager of the Preserve Route 66 Program at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “By heading east and taking nearly three weeks to drive the road, we’ll get to see more people and celebrate the communities that make the highway special.”

In addition to representatives from statewide Route 66 preservation and advocacy organizations, the core group of vehicles will include the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the international community at large, and the public. The event has also been designated as an official Route 66 Centennial activity by the US Route 66 Centennial Commission. Partners include:

• Best Western Hotels & Resorts is along for the ride as the official hotel sponsor of the Route 66 Main Street of America Centennial Caravan, coinciding with the global brand’s 80th anniversary. Founded as a referral-based network of independent hotels, many of which are located along Route 66, Best Western has a long history of welcoming road trip travelers. The brand will donate more than 250 room nights along the route to support the cross-country journey.

• Stuckey’s is generously supplying the caravan with pecan log rolls to share on the road and is planning additional family‑friendly activations at select stops.

• One of the most eye‑catching participants of the convoy will be the giant cow and trailer towed by The Big Texan Steak Ranch of Amarillo, Texas. The Big Texan will host a local grilling event each evening, inviting two challengers to attempt its world‑famous 72‑ounce steak challenge. Participants who finish the steak and all trimmings within an hour eat for free. Media is invited to attend.

“The highway’s centennial is a major event, and our goal is to make sure people know that U.S. Route 66 and its people will still be here long after the birthday candles are blown out, said Martin. “We’re thankful for all of our sponsors. Preservation and economic support are vital to ensuring this avenue of American culture remains authentic and connected as it enters its second century.”

Public and Media Welcome to Join

The public is invited to join this commemorative event, whether by participating in a segment of the drive, waving as the caravan passes by, or welcoming the group at stops throughout communities and roadside attractions. A detailed schedule is available on the Caravan’s website, linked below.

Sign up at www.route66caravan.com for updates and to learn more about the itinerary, which is being developed with support from Route 66 Navigation.

The Oklahoma Route 66 Association is proud to reveal the design for their 2026 Centennial t-shirt, featuring artwork from the late Bob Waldmire. Bob was a beloved traveling artist and the inspiration behind Fillmore the Volkswagen bus in Pixar’s Cars films and was an early advocate for Route 66 preservation.

“Bob created a series of drawings in 1989 featuring landmarks along Oklahoma Route 66,” said Association President Rhys Martin. “We felt this would be a wonderful way to acknowledge the road’s history while reminding folks that the journey continues. We’re very grateful to the Waldmire family for allowing us to honor his legacy as we celebrate the road’s 100th anniversary.”

The new design features some artwork never before seen, such as a sketch of downtown Canute that was part of a postcard that was not finished before Bob passed away in 2009. The front of the shirt even has a 100th birthday message…but where did that come from? “When Bob created a new piece of art and wanted to include something he’d already sketched, he would photocopy it, cut it out, and paste it together. With permission from the Waldmire family, we did the exact same thing,” said Martin. The Association’s archives included a sketch Bob had created for the 66th anniversary of Route 66 in 1992; that was combined with a bit of his handwriting to create the number 100. “It’s authentic Bob Waldmire in multiple ways.”

Shirts can be purchased online here and are also available in person at the Association’s booth inside Tulsa’s Meadow Gold Mack store.

In addition to the new shirt, the Association is moving forward with a project to restore the U-Haul truck with Bob’s artwork on the side that they acquired from the auction of Afton Station more than five years ago. Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma City is repairing the long-dormant truck as a student project with plans to have it road-ready by the summer. The Association wants to turn it into a mobile information center about Route 66. The upcoming edition of The Chronicles of Oklahoma from the Oklahoma Historical Society will also feature a write-up about Bob Waldmire and his legacy on Route 66.

Route 66 is not just a connection to tourism and economic development, it’s also a connection to the future for young people from around the country.

The nation’s top 4-H and FFA students will put their expertise to the test by evaluating land for farming, range management, and home development. The National Land and Range Judging Contest presents real-world challenges to showcase skills that directly connect to future careers in environmental management, natural resource conservation, agriculture, and construction. An anticipated 1000 4-H and FFA students and over 200 coaches from 37+ states will attend the event and compete.

The official contest site remains a secret until contest day to prevent any unfair advantage. Each year, a different farm, ranch, company, organization, or agency hosts the contest site on its land near the Oklahoma City metro area. While practice site locations are known in advance, the national competition site is revealed the morning of May 7.

“The El Reno Convention and Visitors Bureau are proud to support the National Land and Range Judging Contest,” said Lyndsay Bayne, Public Information & Marketing Manager for the City of El Reno. “Bringing community and national events like this to El Reno is what our sponsorship program is all about, boosting tourism and economic development for both locals and visitors.” The city awarded the event $3,500 from their local hotel/motel tax fund, the maximum amount available.

“One of the joys of Route 66 is how it weaves with the land and invites people to connect with the natural environment,” said Oklahoma Route 66 Association President Rhys Martin. “If any travelers are coming through and want to learn a little more about how the next generation is learning to handle the challenges of future climate conditions, this is a perfect opportunity.”

The event takes place at the Canadian County Expo Center & Event Center on May 7th, with practices scheduled for May 5-6.

DMOND, OK (April 30, 2026) — Online registration opens April 30 for the 2026 edition of Cycle 66, Oklahoma’s premier Route 66-themed cycling event. Set for Sunday, October 4, 2026, all rides will begin and end in Downtown Edmond, bringing together cyclists of all ages and abilities for a day of community, competition, and celebration.

New for 2026, Cycle 66 has been officially designated a Route 66 Centennial Certified event, recognizing its role in honoring the legacy and spirit of America’s most iconic highway. The event also introduces a new 100-mile route extending to Stroud, Oklahoma, offering an exciting challenge for endurance riders while showcasing a scenic stretch of historic Route 66.

“Each year, we look for ways to elevate the experience while staying true to our mission,” said Ride Director Jason Duncan. “Adding a 100-mile route and earning Route 66 Centennial Certification are meaningful steps forward. We’re proud to create an event that brings people together, celebrates this historic highway, and gives back in a tangible way.”

Cycle 66 features both recreational tour rides and USA Cycling-sanctioned criterium races held in Downtown Edmond, making it a unique event that blends community participation with high-energy competition. All tour riders, regardless of distance, will launch at 7:00 a.m., while criterium racing will begin at 9:00 a.m. This year’s criterium has been designated by USA Cycling as the Oklahoma State Category-Based Championship, elevating the level of competition and prestige.

The tour portion of Cycle 66 includes several thoughtfully designed routes of varying distances and difficulty, all highlighting historic Route 66. Riders will travel through and experience iconic communities including Arcadia, Luther, Wellston, Chandler, and Stroud, with themed rest stops that celebrate the charm, culture, and nostalgia of the Mother Road along the way.

Spectators are encouraged to join the excitement in Downtown Edmond, where they can enjoy local vendors, retailers, and restaurants throughout the day. The event atmosphere offers the unique opportunity to watch tour riders return while experiencing the fast-paced, high-energy criterium races.

A key part of what makes Cycle 66 possible is the support of its “Mother Road Sponsors,” whose partnership reflects a shared commitment to community, wellness, and economic vitality. The 2026 Mother Road Sponsors include Visit Edmond, which serves as a special Marketing partner, as well as Humana, Oklahoma Complete Health, Remington Park, Google, CVS Health, and Walmart. Their investment helps ensure a high-quality experience for participants while amplifying the event’s charitable impact.

Registration is $66. Children ages 10 and under can participate for free in a 1-mile fun ride, and junior criterium racers can enter for $15. Packet pickup will take place on Saturday, October 3, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Frenzy Brewing Company in Downtown Edmond.

Since its founding in 2020, Cycle 66 has donated nearly $100,000 to charitable causes. Proceeds from the 2026 event will benefit the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and the Edmond YMCA. Funds will specifically support the YMCA’s new bicycle rental program, part of a new facility currently under development in east Edmond.

Cycle 66’s mission is to inspire active lifestyles, celebrate the spirit of Route 66, and give back to the community through a world-class cycling event rooted in fun, teamwork, and generosity.

For registration, volunteer opportunities and additional event details, visit www.cycle66ok.com.

As Oklahoma prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66, Langston University is partnering with local communities to support beautification and community enhancement efforts along the Mother Road.

Through the Sherman Lewis School of Agriculture & Applied Sciences Cooperative Extension and Outreach Programs, Langston University has launched a Route 66 Centennial Community Beautification Project designed to strengthen local pride, improve shared spaces, and support economic development in Route 66 corridor communities across Oklahoma.

As part of this centennial initiative, eligible communities may receive $2,000 beautification vouchers to be used for plants and related supplies. Vouchers are redeemable through TLC Garden Centers in Oklahoma City and are intended to support visible, community-led projects such as downtown planters, streetscape improvements, and other public-facing enhancements.

Oklahoma’s 1890 Land-Grant University funding supports this effort and aligns with Langston University Extension’s mission to promote community development, environmental stewardship, and sustainability. Supporting Communities During the Route 66 Centennial Route 66 Centennial represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Oklahoma communities to showcase their identity, welcome visitors, and invest in long-term improvements. By working collaboratively with local leaders, civic groups, and residents, Langston University Extension aims to help communities honor the legacy of Route 66 while planting seeds—literally and figuratively—for the future.

Communities interested in participating in or learning more about the Route 66 Centennial Beautification Project are encouraged to contact Joshua Davis III at Langston University (Joshua.davis12@langston.edu, 405-255-5729).

WEATHERFORD, OKLAHOMA (April 17, 2026) – The Oklahoma Route 66 Association’s first Centennial event is on Saturday, April 25 at the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford! The Route 66 Big Band Hangar Dance honors and celebrates the early years of the famous highway when the road served an important part of the World War II war effort. It helped with troop movements out west and provided a safe and reliable path for materials to get where they needed to be. “This event is a way for us to honor that era,” says Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, “and also to bring people to Weatherford which has branded itself as Space City further elevating the legacy of its most famous citizen, General Thomas Stafford.”

The event will take place in the Smithsonian-affiliated Stafford Air and Space Museum which has expanded with a brand new event space, outdoor learning areas, and gardens! The primary entertainment for the evening will include big band music courtesy of Talk of the Town Orchestra, swing dance lessons and a performance from the Oklahoma Swing Syndicate, documentary filmmaker Katrina Parks’ Rosies on 66 screenings, and viewing vintage aircraft up close!

The Boogie Baby, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain, a Beech C-45, and a PT-19 Trainer from the Caldwell Collection will be on display at the event.

Before the event, the pilot of the Beech C-45 will be giving rides for $125 from noon until the event begins. The plane can seat up to six people and flights last around 20 minutes.

The evening will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres from Lucille’s Roadhouse including onion burger sliders, fried pickles, spamwiches, chili, milkshakes, and apple cobbler.

Guests can also enjoy a night-at-the-museum perusing the exhibits, snapping a souvenir photo at the photo booth, and taking in the special exhibit of Route 66 photos from a private collection.

Tickets are on flash sale this weekend, Friday-Sunday, for $15 off each ticket. Purchase tickets at www.oklahomaroute66.com/bbhd. After that, the prices will go back up to $50 per ticket. Each ticket includes all entertainment, food, two drink tickets redeemable at the bar, and a souvenir Route 66 Big Band Hangar Dance challenge coin, exclusive for this event.

The event also includes a corsage bar, with floral corsages created by The Cup on 66! Corsages are available for a small donation.

Guests are encouraged to dress in 1940s era clothing or your Sunday best!

As I stood outside of Sweetie Pie’s Amish Bakery and Café on Tulsa’s stretch of Route 66, I could hear the little car coming. It wasn’t struggling, per se, but the engine just sounded different. Then I saw it: a little two-door car that was nearly identical in color to the city’s famous Golden Driller. I also saw its inhabitants: Patrick Friedrich and Torsten Prasch. They were in the middle of a journey down Historic Route 66 in a vehicle that had quite a history.

The Trabant (which means companion, and it is colloquially known as a Trabi) is a relic of the cold war. These cars were produced in East Germany from 1957 until 1991, shortly after the Berlin Wall fell. Metal was harder to come by on the other side of the Iron Curtain due to embargoes, so the body panels are made of Duroplast. The material was invented in the German Democratic Republic (GDR) in the 1950s and is a plastic fiber material not unlike Formica. The design of the cars remained virtually unchanged in 30 years and became a symbol of the country…in more ways than one.

The cars had to be ordered from the state itself, and it was not an easy process. “When you wanted to have one…you had to wait fifteen years to get it,” Patrick explained. He said that some people would order a car right after a child was born so that perhaps it would be available when they were of driving age. The cars weren’t cheap, either. “Simple workers, maybe earned 300 marks [a month] when the car was about 10,000 marks.” Some would sell off the notes halfway through the waiting period for a profit and a used car went for about twice the money.

These factors, coupled with the fact that people greatly desired western cars once they had the opportunity, mean that Trabants are relatively rare today. Out of around 3 million produced, only 40,000 or so remain licensed and drivable. But the number is growing as cars are found and restored by enthusiasts.

Patrick and Torsten were both around 20 when communism in Europe collapsed; they lived in western Germany at the time. They told me how hard it was for people to go from a mindset where someone that had been an enemy for 40 years was suddenly supposed to be your friend. Patrick was fascinated by the life that had been on the other side of the wall and moved to the GDR when he had an opportunity, where he fell in love with the Trabant and its history.

Patrick had been dreaming of a Route 66 trip in a Trabi for decades. Although he was set to realize those dreams a few years ago, COVID was a setback. But then he set his sights on the Centennial year. He connected with a few friends (there’s another Trabi on Route 66 making the journey, too, but its occupants were visiting friends elsewhere on the day they came through Tulsa) and here he was on the most famous road in the world. “There is so much to plan if you make such a trip,” Patrick said, adding how lucky they were that four of them were able to get nearly two months off of work to take the trip.

Two months because the traveling party wanted to take their time crossing the country. Not only because the Trabi’s little air-cooled two-stroke engine averages about 50 miles-per-hour, but because they truly wanted to connect with the places and people that the road led them to. He showed me the itinerary planning document he’d made, which was extensive. He told me about meeting so many wonderful, friendly people like Phyllis Ferguson of the Rockwood Motor Court in Springfield and Rita Kirchoff at the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba.

In between bites of breakfast, I asked them how they felt about Route 66 being held up in the United States as a beacon of freedom. Did that ring true to their experience?

“Yes, definitely,” Patrick said. “If you think, years ago, many people came from Europe. They wanted to find a better place to live, because in Europe there had been wars and all that stuff, in such a short time one after the other. They wanted to be rid of this.” Many people found it in America. “They went down Route 66 and stopped somewhere. ‘OK, it’s nice here,’ or they went on to find another place. ‘I’m free to go anywhere and I can do anything. I can be a farmer, or work in fabrication, anything.’ That is freedom, the same as when the Wall came down.” Although the experience was not unique to Route 66, the road’s cultural place in the American story meant that it stood out from the rest.

Our visit certainly gave me a lot to think about as America celebrates its 250th birthday this year, alongside the Route 66 Centennial. I waved goodbye to my new friends as they continued west, with the freedom of the open road reflected in their windshield and stamped upon their hearts.

The Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership, in collaboration with multiple statewide Route 66 organizations, is launching a collectible series of trading cards for the Route 66 Centennial. Starting April 15th, cards will be available at locations across the Route 66 corridor from Illinois to California for $1 apiece.

“We wanted to offer a fun and different item that people could add to their Route 66 itineraries as they travel during the road’s 100th Anniversary,” said Rhys Martin, board member of the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership and President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association. “State associations and scenic byways have been working together with the Road Ahead for a decade now and we wanted something to show that Route 66 truly is one long linear community that also gives back to that community.”

Each card includes a Route 66 landmark, with locations divided out across the eight states that the road passes through with a list of factoids on the back. The number of cards in each state was determined by mileage and each location was selected by individual state Route 66 organizations.

This initial launch of 27 cards was made possible thanks to a generous sponsorship by the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. “Working alongside the other seven Route 66 states to create a unique, nostalgic, and exciting Centennial offering truly reflects the strength and value of collaboration,” said Casey Claypool, Executive Director of the Byway. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of such a dedicated and passionate group of Route 66 stewards.  I hope travelers will appreciate the care, time, and collective effort that went into bringing this project to life.”

26 of the cards will be sold at various locations along Route 66 while the 27th will be offered from the Route 66 Centennial Caravan as it makes its way across the highway in June. Cards will only cost a dollar apiece, with a portion of each sale going to the business offering the card and a portion going back to each state organization.

“This initial set of cards will hopefully inspire other businesses and landmarks to get involved,” Martin continued. “We plan to offer future ‘booster packs’ of cards with those proceeds going to the Road Ahead Partnership’s Preservation and Economic Development Grant.”

To start your collection, look up card-selling locations at www.route66tradingcards.com. To learn more about the Route 66 Centennial Caravan in June, go to www.route66caravan.com.

Volunteering with the Oklahoma Route 66 Association just got easier thanks to a new portal that helps both members and Association leadership track opportunities and overall engagement. The Association relies on volunteer support for most of its operations, from event attendance to Trip Guide deliveries and more.

“We are so excited to provide more opportunities for our members to share their love of Route 66,” said Association President Rhys Martin. “The Centennial year is in full swing and we need the support to make sure that all 400+ miles of the Mother Road in Oklahoma are represented.”

VolunteerHub is a leading volunteer organization software solution used by nonprofits and other organizations around the world. Jaimie Gua, Oklahoma County District Representative, pitched the platform at the Association’s January membership meeting, with several members speaking up about having used the software before for other organizations. Adoption of the platform was unanimous.

“I like to say we picked VolunteerHub for the same reason people pick Route 66: it’s the best way to get from great intentions to real destinations—and I’m proud our board trusted me to put it on the map for Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road,” Jaimie said. “With it, we can spend less time in the paperwork slow lane and spend more time keeping Oklahoma’s Mother Road alive and thriving.”

The first event that volunteers can sign up to help with is the Big Band Hangar Dance in Weatherford, scheduled for April 25th, 2026. Members will also be able to sign up for some administrative tasks at the Association office in Tulsa and with the ongoing delivery of the popular Oklahoma Route 66 Trip Guide to Business Member locations across the state.

You can sign up for more information and to find volunteer opportunities at https://oklahomaroute66.volunteerhub.com/vv2/. More opportunities will be added over the coming weeks as the portal is built out.

The 2026 Oklahoma Route 66 Trip Guide is now available! This year not only marks the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road but also marks the 30th year of our annual Trip Guide, which is the largest ever at 144 pages.

“We are incredibly proud of this edition of our Trip Guide, which is cited by travelers from across the globe as an invaluable resource for traveling our favorite highway,” said Rhys Martin, President of the Association. “They can be ordered from our website today and will be available from Business Member locations across the region as we get them distributed.” Guides are free in person and only cost shipping if ordered online.

The booklet features maps of each community along Oklahoma’s 400+ miles of Historic Route 66 along with historic information, business listings, road trip games, and more. Although the guide focuses on Oklahoma, the Association has members in nearly 30 states and multiple countries. “When you look through the guide and plan your trip, please support our members. Without their membership and advertising, we wouldn’t be able to advocate for preservation or promote the many wonderful things happening along the Route 66 corridor in our state.”

The cover artwork this year is a commissioned piece by Oklahoma artist Jessica Stout. “We wanted something a little more special for the Centennial year,” Martin continued. “Jessica created a wonderful piece for our cover that we’re also offering as an 11x14 poster for people that want something to display to mark this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.” The artwork pulls from familiar Oklahoma iconography to present a timeless image of the open road. The limited-edition poster can also be ordered online (shipped separately) or available in-person at Meadow Gold Mack in Tulsa.

Guides can be ordered at www.oklahomaroute66.com or picked up at Business Member locations across the state, which should be delivered by our Board and volunteers over the next few weeks. Jessica Stout’s work, which includes murals throughout eastern Oklahoma, can be seen at www.jessicastout.com.

After more than 30 years of darkness, the iconic Cotton Boll Motel neon sign in Canute, Oklahoma is alight once more. The sign relighting is the first phase of multiple projects the community has in the works to highlight their local history and celebrate their place on the Mother Road.

The Cotton Boll opened in May 1960. Woodrow and Viola Penick, who had been cotton farmers, had the 16-room motel built alongside US Highway 66. Joe Mahl of Elk City was the builder of the structure and Seright Neon of Elk City created the stunning sign. The motel advertised air conditioning, vinyl tile, and a TV set in each room. Ten years later, the I-40 bypass was completed, severing Canute from the flow of most tourist traffic. But the Cotton Boll survived on oilfield and agricultural business. The Penicks sold the motel in 1979 and it continued to operate until the early 1990s.

Pat and Cheryl Webb bought the motel in 1993 as a private residence shortly after it closed. By then, the sign was no longer operable. However, the distinctive porcelain cabinet had already become a popular photo stop for travelers from around the world. People in the town had reached out to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and the State Historic Preservation Office at the time about preserving the sign and making it a monument, but those efforts were unsuccessful. Joe Kisicki, President of the Association at the time, told The Daily Oklahoman that the Association didn’t have the resources to finance such projects, but that it was certainly, “part of the attraction of Route 66.”

When the State of Oklahoma created the Oklahoma Route 66 Revitalization Grant in 2023, preservationists in the town of Canute took notice. Their local CPR Group (Canute Preservation and Restoration) applied for a grant that would bring new life to Old Route 66 in their town - and got it. The Cotton Boll project is just the first phase and will be followed by work to other structures, including the Washita Motel sign to the west and the former Hi-De-Hi Drive-In to the east.

Pat Webb, who still owns the motel, gifted the sign to the City of Canute so that the project could take place and the work was completed by Just-In-Time Signs out of Sayre. In fact, the sign cabinet itself wasn’t even repainted - the porcelain was simply cleaned and polished.

On the evening of March 21st, a crowd of 130 people gathered in Canute (population 494) on the side of Historic Route 66 to be there when the switch was flipped. People from as far away as Houston, Texas and Tucumcari, New Mexico came to be a part of the special occasion. In attendance were the presidents of both the Texas and Oklahoma Route 66 Associations and numerous Route 66 roadies from around the region, but the stars of the evening were the Penick daughters, Marilyn and Shirley, who came in from southeast Texas.

After speeches from the mayor and a few others, the neon was turned on just before 7:00 PM to great fanfare. People from near and far continued to snap photos as the sun set behind the concrete roadway and many revelers migrated to the nearby Friends Pub & Pizza, where they visited until well after 10. The motel is still a private residence, but in this Centennial year the sign will call to Route 66 travelers as both a reminder of yesterday and a dream of tomorrow.