If you love classic cars, there has never been a better time to plan a road trip through Arizona. The Route 66 Centennial is bringing the highway back to life with a full calendar of car shows, cruises, rallies, and high-energy car events in Arizona.
From spring through fall, Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 will host some of the most iconic car events in the country. Whether you are looking to show your vehicle, join a cruise, or simply experience the atmosphere, this guide highlights the best classic car events from April through December 2026.
April 2026: Kick Off the Route 66 Driving Season
The season begins in Flagstaff, where early centennial events start to build momentum.
The Route 66 Centennial Car Show and Cruise brings classic cars into downtown Flagstaff for a relaxed but lively introduction to the year’s celebrations. Expect vintage vehicles lining historic streets, casual cruises through town, and a community atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with other enthusiasts.
This is the perfect warm-up event if you want to ease into the Route 66 experience before the larger crowds arrive.
May 2026: The Peak Month for Classic Car Events
Route 66 Fun Run (The Must-Attend Event)
If you only attend one event, make it the Route 66 Fun Run. Starting in Seligman and stretching through Kingman to Topock, this multi-day cruise is the most iconic car event on Route 66.
Hundreds of classic cars travel together along a 140-mile stretch of historic highway, recreating the golden era of American road trips. Spectators line the streets, small towns come alive, and the entire route transforms into a moving car show.
This is where Route 66 truly feels alive again.
Ash Fork Route 66 Car Show
A smaller but authentic event, Ash Fork offers a more local and relaxed version of the classic car show experience. You will find a mix of restored vehicles, community vendors, and a slower pace that allows you to really take it all in.
Holbrook Route 66 Car Show and Festival
Heading east, Holbrook hosts a growing event that blends classic cars with a full festival atmosphere. This is a great stop if you want to experience Route 66 beyond the more popular western towns.
June 2026: Car Shows Meet Full Centennial Celebrations
Williams Route 66 Car Show
Williams hosts one of the largest car shows in the state. Downtown streets fill with hundreds of vehicles, ranging from fully restored classics to custom builds.
The setting itself adds to the experience. Williams is one of the best-preserved Route 66 towns, making it feel like you have stepped back in time.
Flagstaff Centennial Celebration
Back in Flagstaff, the centennial celebration continues with a combination of car shows, live entertainment, and historical events. This is one of the most well-rounded events of the year, combining culture, history, and car enthusiasm in one place.
August 2026: A Mid-Summer Car Show Break
During the summer, events slow down slightly, but Flagstaff hosts the Mother Road Classic Car Show.
This event has a more relaxed feel, making it a great opportunity to enjoy classic cars without the intensity of peak season crowds.
September 2026: Culture and Cars Combine
In Winslow, the Standin’ on the Corner Festival blends music, culture, and Route 66 nostalgia. While not strictly a car event, it still draws classic vehicles and enthusiasts, making it worth including in your itinerary.
October 2026: High-Energy Automotive Events
Route 66 Street Drags (Kingman)
Back in Kingman, the Route 66 Street Drags offer one of the most unique automotive experiences in the country. This event turns a section of historic Route 66 into a legal drag strip, where classic and modern vehicles race head-to-head.
It is fast-paced, loud, and completely different from traditional car shows.
Kingman Route 66 Fest
Following the street drags, Kingman hosts Route 66 Fest, which is a full festival featuring classic cars, live music, vendors, and themed entertainment. It is one of the most energetic celebrations of Route 66 culture.
Where to Stop Between Events: Make the Most of the Drive
One of the biggest advantages of attending these events is the drive itself. Between major towns, you have the opportunity to explore some of Arizona’s most unique stops.
A standout along the route is Meteor Crater, located just east of Flagstaff. This massive impact site is one of the most surreal landscapes on the drive and a perfect place to take a break between events.
Whether you are heading from Flagstaff to Winslow or traveling between car shows, Meteor Crater Arizona offers a completely different kind of experience that adds depth to your journey.
Purchase your Meteor Crater Tickets
Buy in advance, tickets never expire!
2026 Is the Ultimate Year for Classic Car Fans
The Route 66 Centennial is more than a celebration. It is a rare opportunity to experience one of America’s most iconic highways as it was meant to be experienced, through cars, community, and the open road.
From the massive caravan of the Fun Run to the adrenaline of the Street Drags and the charm of smaller local shows, Arizona offers something for every classic car enthusiast.
If you have ever thought about driving Route 66, 2026 is the year to do it.
