Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Monday announced plans for its 100th Anniversary of Historic Route 66 celebration. A weekend of commemorative events, community gatherings, live entertainment, classic cars, and family-friendly fun will take place July 31 through August 2.
The Route 66 Centennial Monument Dedication and Time Capsule Ceremony takes place at 10 a.m. July 31 at the Route 66 Casino Hotel. The ceremony will unveil a permanent monument recognizing the legacy of America’s Mother Road and its effect on the communities it has connected for generations.
“The Route 66 Centennial is more than a celebration of a highway — it’s a celebration of the people, communities, and stories that have defined the American journey for the past 100 years,” a Route 66 Casino Hotel statement said. “The monument and time capsule will serve as a lasting tribute to that legacy and a gift to future generations.”
Community leaders, special guests, and Centennial honorees will participate in a ceremonial time capsule sealing, preserving stories, artifacts, and memories from today for future generations. The monument is part of a nationwide initiative celebrating Route 66 communities from Chicago to Santa Monica, with each installation reflecting the local history and culture that helped shape the iconic highway.
The ceremony will feature remarks from local representatives, along with a special recognition of guests celebrating their 100th birthday during Route 66’s Centennial year. After the program, attendees will have an opportunity to view the monument, participate in commemorative photos, and celebrate the milestone moment in Route 66 history.
The celebration continues August 1 with the Route 66 Centennial 5K Run/3K Walk. Registration begins at 6 a.m., with the race starting promptly at 7 a.m. Participants can choose between a 5K run or a 3K walk and will follow a course designed to commemorate the spirit of the Mother Road. Water stations will be available throughout the route, and fresh fruit will be provided at the finish line. Commemorative T-shirts will be available while supplies last.
The Centennial Route 66 Car Show takes place August 1-2, featuring hundreds of classic, custom, and hot rod vehicles. Open to the public, the two-day event will showcase automotive craftsmanship and Route 66 culture while offering more than 200 awards across 65 judged classes and more than $1,500 in cash prizes.
The weekend’s entertainment includes the O’Jays performing at 8 p.m. July 31 at the Legends Theater. At 7 p.m. on August 1, comedian Jay Leno will take the stage.
