Springfield will host the National Celebrate America on Route 66 Parade from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 1, as part of the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration. The parade is set to begin at Great Southern Bank Operations Center and travel west along Route 66 through Park Central Square before ending at Campbell Avenue.
The event aims to highlight classic cars built between 1926 and 1985, marking both the birth and decommissioning years of Route 66. During World War II, American auto makers did not produce civilian vehicles due to a government-mandated halt in production. In addition to classic cars, floats, marching bands, and performing groups will participate in the parade.
Parade staging starts at 3 p.m., with lineup areas designated east of the Operations Center. Buses for participant pick-up will be available on Main Avenue and nearby lots. Parade entries must adhere to a maximum speed of five miles per hour and maintain a following distance unless directed otherwise by marshals. Law enforcement will oversee safety measures along the route.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early—starting at about 3:30 p.m.—to secure viewing spots along St. Louis Street or near Park Central Square where accessible seating is provided. Public parking garages downtown are available; however, some street parking may be restricted during temporary road closures for the event.
Springfield focuses on ethical local governance aimed at community benefits according to its official website. The city operates under a council-manager form of government adopted in 1953 with a nine-member City Council responsible for policy decisions according to its official website. Efforts in historic preservation are ongoing throughout Springfield’s recognized landmarks and districts according to its official website. Springfield was also significant as the site of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek in 1861 during the Civil War and played an important role in establishing Route 66 through its public square according to its official website.
The city serves as Greene County’s seat in southwestern Missouri according to its official website and traces its origins back to land donated by John Polk Campbell in the early nineteenth century before incorporation as a town in 1838 according to its official website.
The parade is scheduled rain or shine unless weather conditions threaten public safety; updates will be shared via social media channels managed by Springfield officials.
