Joliet to Shine as Key Location in Route 66 Centennial Events

Joliet, Illinois, has been designated as one of the primary locations for the kickoff celebrations of the 100th anniversary of historic U.S. Route 66. The festivities will commence on April 30, 2026, marking a significant milestone for this iconic highway that stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. As the easternmost satellite city for the opening day events, Joliet is poised to attract a diverse array of visitors eager to celebrate the history and culture of Route 66.

Greg Peerbolte, chief executive officer of the Joliet Area Historical Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the designation, stating, “We’re excited.” The museum played a pivotal role in securing Joliet’s inclusion among the satellite cities, which also comprises St. Louis, Missouri, Amarillo, Texas, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Santa Monica, California. The official host city for the centennial celebrations will be Springfield, Missouri.

Joliet is set to host its opening day activities at the Old Joliet Prison, a former correctional facility that has become a popular destination for Route 66 tourists. Although specific plans for the April 30 event have not yet been revealed, Peerbolte indicated that the museum is working on a unique program that honors the site’s historical significance.

Other satellite cities are also planning to engage visitors with live music, historical presentations, and various activities, as noted by the Illinois Centennial Route 66 Commission, which announced Joliet’s selection. The Route 66 anniversary is designed to be a year-long celebration, with Joliet preparing additional events to welcome travelers throughout the year.

As part of its efforts to enhance the visitor experience, the city is currently developing a new downtown gathering space across from the Rialto Square Theatre, which is expected to celebrate its own centennial in 2026. Ann Sylvester, the newly appointed director of cultural affairs for Joliet, emphasized that the city’s selection as a satellite city presents a unique opportunity. “It’s an opportunity for Joliet to showcase its history, our culture, and our future,” Sylvester remarked.

The Route 66 centennial celebrations aim to not only honor the past but also to promote the cultural heritage and tourism potential of the cities along this historic route. Joliet’s participation in the celebration underscores its commitment to attracting visitors and highlighting its rich history as part of this iconic American roadway.