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Bloomington-Normal, Illinois

Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66 in McLean County

Experience the magic of the Mother Road through one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, themed festivals, and family-friendly corn mazes. From interactive scavenger hunts to historic landmarks, our Route 66 Centennial celebrations invite you to connect with the vibrant history and remarkable people that make McLean County a true bucket-list destination.

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66, and McLean County is rolling out a yearlong series of celebrations to honor the history, culture, and community of the Mother Road. From May through September, each of the our Route 66 municipalities — Bloomington, Normal, Lexington, Towanda, Chenoa, McLean, Funks Grove, and Shirley — will host unique activations, interactive experiences, and photo-worthy moments that invite visitors and residents to connect with the legacy of Route 66 in our own backyard.

Centennial Streets

Discover new, unique photo opportunities along the original stretches of Route 66 throughout McLean County. Each town will feature vibrant murals, signage, and installations that highlight the history and charm of the Mother Road, perfect for Instagram, family photos, or a fun road trip snapshot. Capture the spirit of the Mother Road while exploring our streets, squares, and iconic landmarks.

Chalkboard Walls

Express yourself along Route 66 with interactive chalkboard walls installed in each municipality. Visitors and residents can sign, draw, and decorate the boards, creating a living, community-curated canvas that evolves throughout the centennial season. It’s a hands-on way to leave your mark on McLean County’s Route 66 legacy.

County-Wide Scavenger Hunt

Take part in a McLean County Route 66 scavenger hunt, featuring two locations in each of the seven communities. Complete the full set of stops to earn a special centennial prize while discovering hidden gems, historic sites, and fun attractions along the Mother Road. It’s a playful way to explore, learn, and celebrate with friends and family.

Progressive Party Weekend — Cruisin’ Through the Century (June 6-7, 2026)

The Cruisin’ Through the Century party weekend brings themed celebrations to each of McLean County’s Route 66 towns over a spectacular two-day event. Dance, play, and celebrate in style as each community honors a decade of road-trip culture.

  • Chenoa — 1920s: Flapper dance contest and vintage downtown fun (Saturday, June 6)
  • Lexington — 1930s: Big band music and lawn games at The Castle (Saturday, June 6)
  • Towanda — 1940s: Swing into the 40s with classic activities (Saturday, June 6)
  • Normal — 1950s: Retro roadside picnic for all ages (Sunday, June 7)
  • Bloomington — 1960s: Groovy square party with live music and a BIG surprise (Saturday, June 6)
  • Shirley/Funks Grove — 1970s: Tie-dye fun on the Funks Grove property (Sunday, June 7)
  • McLean — 1980s: Village square celebration with music, food, and a classic car parade (Sunday, June 7)
Partners & Special Centennial Events

In addition to main activations, McLean County’s Route 66 Centennial includes partner events, unique experiences, and limited-time offerings throughout 2026:

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