A centennial celebration in 2026 is more than an example of opportunity knocking. The Route 66 centennial is a rare opportunity to put some lipstick and a gown on the hog, and pass it off as the prom queen. It is a chance to build a network of cooperative partnerships that foster development of a sense of community in America’s longest small town – Route 66 between Chicago and Santa Monica. And it is a very unique opportunity to share America’s story with the world.

A Centennial Celebration

A few communities and states launched Route 66 centennial initiatives before the year of the apocalypse, 2020. Others are just starting to realize what an opportunity the centennial represents. But even the folks that are arriving to the party late can still benefit.

Towns, cities, and villages can use this historic event to foster development of a sense of community. By creating events and initiatives that support historic district revitalization and investment, the centennial becomes a catalyst for long term economic development. And by working with other Route 66 states, associations, and communities, the return on the investment of marketing dollars is exponentially magnified with each partnership.

The Birthplace of Route 66 Festival in Springfield, Missouri is an excellent example of what might be accomplished by tapping into the Route 66 centennial. It has been developed in partnership with city and state tourism, government, and historic district business owners. And utilizing a diverse array of marketing venues, inclduing the event section of the Route 66 Naviageion app, it has morphed into one of the largest events on Route 66.

Imagine the impact of an annual event that attracts more than 60,000 people. Now, imagine this taking place in a town with a population of less than 200,000 people. As planning and marketing is well underway for an even larger centennial version of the festival, Springfield will be transformed.

An Even Bigger Celebration

There is another anniversary taking place in 2026. That will be the 250th anniversary of the United States. The opportunities represnted by these two anniversary celebrations is not being overlooked by tourism directors with vision.

Scott Dahl, CVB director in Springfield, Illinois is already working on creating partnerships that will provide opportunities to benefit from both anniversaries. Granted, the city is chock full of Abraham Lincoln associated sites. But in addition to promoting association with the 16th president, he has already initiated dicussions with organizers of the annual Miles of Possibility Conference. And plans are being made for that conference to take place in Springfield during the Route 66 centennial.

Tulsa is another coomunity to watch. Working with state officials, and the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, this city initiated Route 66 centennial initiatives several years ago. Plans and projects initiated since then are transforming the Route 66 corridor. And they will have an impact into the centennial and beyond.

Jim Hinckley’s America

Jim Hinckley’s America is working on a variety of projects to ensure that we are a community building link. The Route 66 Centennial Initiative group on Facebook is one example. Another is Coffee With Jim. That is the weekly podcast on Podbean.

On recent programs we have talked with a diverse array of guests including the president of the Route 66 Association of New Mexico. We have also talked with Scott Dahl, CVB Director in Springfield, IllinoisAnd in the next few weeks we will be visiting with the president of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association. Also on the schedule is Angela Moreland, a leader in McLean, Texas historic business revitalization.

We have a few other projects simmering on the back burner. A Route 66 centennial anthology is being written. Programs and presentations are being scheduled. Educational programs are being developed. Road trips are being planned.

So, let’s get excited about the fast approaching cetennial. And let’s unleash the imagination. Opportunity is knocking. Let’s see who answers.