Route 66 Centennial
Kansas Events 2026
From Galena Mining Days to the Route 66 International Festival — celebrate the Centennial across Kansas's 13 miles of the Mother Road.
2
Events
2
Cities
2
Free Events
MAY
15
Galena Mining Days
A community celebration of Galena's lead and zinc mining heritage featuring historical reenactments, mine tours, live music, food vendors, and a downtown art walk. Cars on the Route hosts special open house events with guided tours of the Kan-O-Tex station and the famous tow truck that inspired Pixar's Tow Mater. Local artisans showcase mining-era crafts and the town's mining history comes alive through storytelling and exhibits.
What to Expect
SEP
18
Route 66 International Festival — Baxter Springs
Annual celebration of Route 66 heritage with classic car shows, live music, vendor booths, guided historic tours, and a parade through downtown Baxter Springs. The 2026 Centennial edition is expected to be the biggest yet, with Route 66 enthusiasts from across the country converging on this border town. The Heritage Center opens special Centennial exhibits, and a guided tour traces Route 66's path through Cherokee County from Galena to the Oklahoma line.
What to Expect
Plan Your Visit
Drive It Slowly
The 13.2 miles can be driven in 15 minutes, but don't rush. Allow 2-4 hours to stop at every attraction, take photos, and soak in the small-town atmosphere.
Tri-State Trip
Kansas sits between Joplin, MO (10 min east) and Miami, OK (10 min south). Plan Kansas as part of a tri-state day trip covering the Missouri-Kansas-Oklahoma corridor.
Budget-Friendly
Both events are completely free. Budget $15-30 for food, souvenirs at Nelson's Store, and deli sandwiches along the route.
Best Timing
The Route 66 International Festival in September is the marquee event. Spring and fall offer the best weather for the 13-mile drive.