Tulsa's Route 66 Classic Car Parade Aims for Guinness World Records™ Title
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is gearing up for a momentous event as the Route 66 Capital Cruise Classic Car Centennial Parade aims to achieve a Guinness World Records™ title. This celebration is set to take place on May 30, 2026, commemorating the 100th anniversary of Route 66, often referred to as the 'Mother Road.' Adding a Guinness World Records attempt to this occasion speaks volumes about Tulsa's commitment to honoring this American icon.
Mayor Monroe Nichols expressed the excitement surrounding this event, stating, "In Tulsa, we don't do anything halfway." His words encapsulate the city's pride as it prepares for what is anticipated to be one of the largest celebrations of Route 66 in the country. With a Guinness World Records adjudicator present to verify the attempt, this event is poised to bring significant attention to Tulsa and its rich history with the fabled highway.
The parade will begin with the staging of classic cars at Tulsa's Expo Square, where festivities will kick off with a pre-Cruise Tailgate and Expo on the preceding Thursday and Friday. The parade itself will stretch over a 5.5-mile route down the iconic highway, allowing participants and spectators to fully immerse themselves in the experience of a lifetime.
Christian Bengel, Chair of the Route 66 Commission and Vice Chair of the Tulsa City Council, remarked that, "Setting an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title at the biggest Route 66 Centennial celebration in America is exactly how The Capital of Route 66® should honor the Mother Road." This sentiment of pride in showcasing Tulsa's connection to the highway resonates with many locals, as they prepare to pay tribute to the history and culture embedded in Route 66.
With an increased emphasis on tourism and community involvement, the event promises to gather car enthusiasts and families from all corners of the region. Event organizers are urging drivers of classic cars—those manufactured in 1996 or earlier—to register for the parade. The inclusivity of such a vibrant gathering resonates with the city's vision to encourage participation from a diverse array of automobile owners, emphasizing both community spirit and a shared love for classic vehicles.
This celebration aims to significantly boost tourism in the area as well. In 2025, Route 66 alone accounted for nearly 23% of all visitor interests at the Visitors Center, underscoring its popularity. Renee McKenney, president of Tulsa Regional Tourism, stated, "All roads lead to The Capital of Route 66® as we prepare for this momentous celebration." Her optimism highlights the potential economic impact expected from this world-record attempt and the subsequent influx of visitors who will undoubtedly come to explore all that Tulsa has to offer.
The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, as not just locals but individuals from across the nation look forward to commemorating such a significant milestone for Route 66. Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell expressed enthusiasm for Tulsa’s leading role in the Centennial celebrations, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the character and beauty of Oklahoma during this historic event.
As the countdown to the parade begins, Tulsa stands ready to demonstrate to the world the depth of its heritage and connection to Route 66. With community support and the unique charm that Tulsa offers, the Capital Cruise likely marks the start of an unforgettable chapter in this storied road's journey. Stay tuned for registration details and keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive.
For more information and updates regarding the event, demolition photos, and registration guidance, visit capitalofroute66.com.
Mayor Monroe Nichols expressed the excitement surrounding this event, stating, "In Tulsa, we don't do anything halfway." His words encapsulate the city's pride as it prepares for what is anticipated to be one of the largest celebrations of Route 66 in the country. With a Guinness World Records adjudicator present to verify the attempt, this event is poised to bring significant attention to Tulsa and its rich history with the fabled highway.
The parade will begin with the staging of classic cars at Tulsa's Expo Square, where festivities will kick off with a pre-Cruise Tailgate and Expo on the preceding Thursday and Friday. The parade itself will stretch over a 5.5-mile route down the iconic highway, allowing participants and spectators to fully immerse themselves in the experience of a lifetime.
Christian Bengel, Chair of the Route 66 Commission and Vice Chair of the Tulsa City Council, remarked that, "Setting an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title at the biggest Route 66 Centennial celebration in America is exactly how The Capital of Route 66® should honor the Mother Road." This sentiment of pride in showcasing Tulsa's connection to the highway resonates with many locals, as they prepare to pay tribute to the history and culture embedded in Route 66.
With an increased emphasis on tourism and community involvement, the event promises to gather car enthusiasts and families from all corners of the region. Event organizers are urging drivers of classic cars—those manufactured in 1996 or earlier—to register for the parade. The inclusivity of such a vibrant gathering resonates with the city's vision to encourage participation from a diverse array of automobile owners, emphasizing both community spirit and a shared love for classic vehicles.
This celebration aims to significantly boost tourism in the area as well. In 2025, Route 66 alone accounted for nearly 23% of all visitor interests at the Visitors Center, underscoring its popularity. Renee McKenney, president of Tulsa Regional Tourism, stated, "All roads lead to The Capital of Route 66® as we prepare for this momentous celebration." Her optimism highlights the potential economic impact expected from this world-record attempt and the subsequent influx of visitors who will undoubtedly come to explore all that Tulsa has to offer.
The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, as not just locals but individuals from across the nation look forward to commemorating such a significant milestone for Route 66. Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell expressed enthusiasm for Tulsa’s leading role in the Centennial celebrations, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the character and beauty of Oklahoma during this historic event.
As the countdown to the parade begins, Tulsa stands ready to demonstrate to the world the depth of its heritage and connection to Route 66. With community support and the unique charm that Tulsa offers, the Capital Cruise likely marks the start of an unforgettable chapter in this storied road's journey. Stay tuned for registration details and keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive.
For more information and updates regarding the event, demolition photos, and registration guidance, visit capitalofroute66.com.
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