Celebration Presented by Visit Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, Okla. (Feb. 17, 2026) – State and local tourism leaders today announced the Kickin’ It On Route 66: OKC Centennial Celebration, presented by Visit Oklahoma City. The free, community-wide celebration honoring the 100th anniversary of America’s most iconic highway will take place Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City.
The Oklahoma City celebration includes a full day of family-friendly activities beginning with a farmers market and concluding with an evening of live entertainment from artists with deep Oklahoma roots. The evening entertainment includes powerhouse trio OK3, fresh yet traditional country music from Bailey Rae, ‘90s country throwback Ricochet, rising country star Kaitlin Butts and Neon Night’s choreographed drone light show.
Oklahoma is home to more miles of historic Route 66 than any other state, with Oklahoma City serving as a cultural and economic hub—connecting travelers to surrounding communities, attractions and experiences across central Oklahoma.
“Oklahoma City is proud to be a major Route 66 destination, not just for its history, but for the energy and experiences visitors find here today,” said Lindsay Vidrine, Visit OKC Chief Marketing Officer. “The May 30 celebration reflects the creativity and talent that define Oklahoma, and invites people to come early, stay late and experience Route 66 in a way that’s uniquely OKC.”
Additional Route 66 Centennial events will take place across Oklahoma throughout the year, highlighting the highway’s lasting legacy and its role in shaping the state’s past, present and future. Together, the events reinforce Route 66’s continued importance to Oklahoma’s tourism economy and community identity.
“Route 66 is one of Oklahoma’s most iconic global brands, and the Centennial represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate its impact across our state,” said Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell. “From small towns to Oklahoma City, Route 66 continues to drive tourism, support local businesses and bring people together. A century ago, Route 66 helped knit together a young, restless nation. A century later, it might help remind us that we’re still one.”
Find more information about the Kickin’ It On Route 66: OKC Centennial Celebration at kickiniton66.com.
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About the Route 66 Centennial
The centennial celebrates the important history of Route 66 in Oklahoma during 2026 through commemorative, educational and community events across the state, including programs and exhibits about the history of how local communities grew and changed with construction of the highway; the development of a modern transportation system; the cultural impact of Route 66 both within the United States and internationally; the portrayal of Route 66 in music, artwork and folklore; and how we maintain the mystique and appeal of Route 66 for future generations.