In 2025, one of America’s most iconic highways turns 100. Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, helped shape the American road trip as we know it today. Stretching across eight states, this legendary highway cuts through the heart of Arizona, offering some of the most scenic and nostalgic stretches of the entire route. To celebrate its centennial, cities and towns along Arizona’s Route 66 are hosting festivals, car shows, races, galas, and historical events throughout 2025. If you’re planning to attend more than one celebration or want to build a themed road trip around these events, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Arizona is Central to the Route 66 Centennial
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is filled with vintage motels, neon signs, trading posts, and dramatic desert landscapes that make it one of the most beloved parts of the highway. From the red rock cliffs of Sedona to the quirky charm of Seligman and the historic streets of Williams, Arizona offers something for every type of traveler. The state also includes one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the world—Meteor Crater—adding a unique stop to your journey. With a wide range of centennial events scheduled throughout the year, Arizona makes a perfect base for celebrating the legacy of Route 66.
August 16, 2025: Mother Road Classic Car Show in Flagstaff
Flagstaff is one of the most historically rich Route 66 cities in Arizona. In August 2025, the city will host the Mother Road Classic Car Show to benefit local charities. This event brings together vintage and custom cars from all over the country. Attendees can explore local shops and restaurants in the downtown area while enjoying live music, family-friendly activities, and photo-worthy car displays.
September 26–27, 2025: Standin’ on the Corner Festival in Winslow
Made famous by the Eagles song “Take It Easy,” Winslow celebrates its connection to pop culture and Route 66 every year with the Standin’ on the Corner Festival. The 2025 event will feature live music, food vendors, and community celebrations all centered around the iconic Standin’ on the Corner Park.
Located near Meteor Crater and Homolovi State Park, Winslow is a perfect stop for travelers interested in both Route 66 culture and natural history. Don’t forget to snap a photo next to the flatbed Ford sculpture and mural—a rite of passage for anyone exploring the Mother Road.
October 10–11, 2025: Kingman Route 66 Fest
Kingman is often referred to as the heart of Route 66 in Arizona, and its centennial celebration will not disappoint. The Kingman Route 66 Fest will include a classic car show, a pinup contest, food trucks, craft vendors, and live music. The event is family-friendly and draws visitors from across the country.
Kingman is also home to the Arizona Route 66 Museum, where you can learn more about the highway’s impact on American travel and commerce. Nearby attractions include Hualapai Mountain Park and the historic Powerhouse Visitor Center.
November 7–10, 2025: Route 66 UltraRun
If you’re looking for something a bit more physically challenging, the Route 66 UltraRun offers a multi-day endurance race that stretches from Seligman to Topock. Participants traverse more than 140 miles of Arizona’s most scenic highways and towns. It’s a unique way to experience the centennial while celebrating human endurance and the historic highway itself.
Spectators are encouraged to cheer on the runners in the towns along the way. Even if you’re not racing, this event provides an incredible sense of community and purpose, reminding visitors just how powerful and symbolic Route 66 remains.
November 15, 2025: Roaring Twenties Centennial Kickoff Party in Kingman
To cap off the year, Kingman will host the Roaring Twenties Centennial Kickoff Party. This gala-style event features period costumes, live jazz, historical exhibits, and special guest speakers. It’s the perfect way to honor the era in which Route 66 was born and to look forward to its next century of adventure.
Held indoors at a local event center, this party offers a more elegant and nostalgic take on the Route 66 celebration. Whether you’re a history buff, a vintage fashion enthusiast, or just looking for a festive send-off, the Roaring Twenties gala offers something special.
Don’t Miss Meteor Crater on Your Route 66 Journey
As you travel between events, make time to visit one of the most awe-inspiring natural landmarks just off Route 66—Meteor Crater. Located near Winslow and just minutes from I-40, this massive impact site was formed over 50,000 years ago and remains one of the best-preserved meteorite craters on Earth. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, a 4D immersive theater, and guided rim tours with panoramic desert views. It’s an unforgettable stop that perfectly complements the spirit of discovery that defines Route 66.
Purchase your Meteor Crater Tickets
Buy in advance, tickets never expire!
More to See Along the Way
There is so much to do and see along the famous Route 66 this year as the state celebrates this historic stretch of highway. Whether you’re driving the full Arizona stretch or picking a few events to attend, this centennial celebration offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to honor the road that helped shape America. Start planning now and get ready to be part of history on Route 66.
For up-to-date information, visit the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona and follow their calendar of events as new celebrations are added throughout the centennial year.
