Downtown Bloomington to Celebrate Route 66 Centennial with Special Saturdays on the Square Event

The City of Bloomington, in partnership with Visit Bloomington-Normal, Castle Theatre, and The Pantagraph invites the community to celebrate the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66 with a special Downtown event on Saturday, June 6, 2026, as part of the countywide Cruisin' Through the Century celebration.

This milestone anniversary honors a century of travel, culture, and connection along the iconic "Mother Road," with communities across McLean County hosting themed activations throughout the summer. Downtown Bloomington's celebration will serve as a featured stop during the two-day Cruisin' Through the Century event, bringing a vibrant 1960s-themed experience to the heart of the city.

The June 6 event will take place during a special Saturdays on the Square concert and will feature:

• Live music from Motown Nation, highlighting the sounds of the 1960s
• A 1960s-era car show showcasing classic vehicles
• A kids zone with family-friendly activities
• Local food vendors and community booths
• A 1960s costume contest for attendees
• Recognition of notable Route 66 community members
• Additional entertainment elements and surprises throughout the evening

The event is designed to celebrate both the historic significance of Route 66 and the continued vibrancy of Downtown Bloomington as a regional destination for entertainment, culture, and community gatherings.

Parking & Accessibility

To support the event, the City of Bloomington has developed a comprehensive parking plan to ensure convenient and accessible options for attendees.

A detailed parking map (attached) outlines available parking throughout the Downtown area, including:

• All-day free parking is located around the Downtown perimeter
• Free 2-hour and 4-hour parking zones within walking distance of the event
• Public parking decks with varying rates for extended stays
• Accessible (ADA) parking spaces located near the event footprint
• Leased parking areas (permit required), clearly identified

The event will be centered on the Downtown Square, with key access routes along Main, Center, and surrounding streets. Attendees are encouraged to review the map in advance and arrive early to allow time for parking and to explore Downtown businesses before and during the event.

For questions regarding parking, leasing options, or additional accommodations, please contact the City of Bloomington Facilities Management Office at (309) 434-2207 or [email protected]. The office is located at 301 E. Jackson St. and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The City of Bloomington looks forward to welcoming residents and visitors for this unique celebration and encourages the community to take part in the broader Cruisin' Through the Century festivities happening throughout McLean County.

For more information on the full Route 66 Centennial celebration, visit: https://www.visitbn.org/centennial/