The 25th Annual Route 66 Mother Road Festival is September 25-27, 2026. The cars, the music, the fun and nostalgia that Route 66 has brought to generations will return for another year, rolling into historic downtown Springfield in September. Admission is FREE for spectators. Weekend Show Highlights: – Admission is FREE for spectators -Friday night Route 66 City Nights Cruise with up to 2,000 classic cars cruising into downtown Springfield -Burnout Competition Saturday -Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday -Post your “selfie” at any Illinois Route 66 landmark to Facebook, or Instagram with hashtag #visitspringfield. -Downtown Springfield, Inc. Farmers Market – Saturday -State Capitol Photo Op! Stage a photo of your car with the majestic Illinois State Capitol Building as your backdrop (4th & Capitol) -Grab the Explorer Passport and visit our Living Legends of Route 66 throughout Springfield, available at the Springfield Visitors Center -Register your ride for a chance to be awarded one of the top honors, show will be judged by CASI certified national judges FESTIVAL HOURS: Friday, Sept. 25, 6PM – 10PM, Saturday, Sept. 26, 9AM – 10PM and Sunday, Sept. 27, 9AM –12PM.