#United States #Los Angeles #HOT ROD Drag Week #Route 66 #HOT ROD Power Tour

Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66 and America's 250th Anniversary

As we step into 2026, two monumental celebrations take center stage: the centenary of Route 66, the iconic highway that symbolizes freedom and adventure in America, and the momentous occasion of America's 250th birthday. To mark these remarkable milestones, Hearst Magazines has announced an exciting lineup of events that promise to thrill car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Introducing the HOT ROD Power Tour

One of the highlights of this year's festivities is the HOT ROD Power Tour, taking place in June. Dubbed as America's largest traveling car show, this spectacular event is anticipated to attract thousands of automotive lovers from across the nation. The tour will feature over 6,000 classic cars, trucks, and muscle vehicles celebrating a century of Route 66 and offering a unique opportunity for fans to connect with their favorite vehicles.

The Power Tour kicks off on June 8 at the Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, and traverses several iconic destinations along the famous highway, ending at Tulsa Raceway Park on June 12. This journey is not only a feast for car aficionados but also a nostalgic trip through American history, showcasing the rich culture surrounding the highway.

Here’s a brief look at the Power Tour's schedule:

• - Day 1 (June 8): Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL
• - Day 2 (June 9): Village of Rantoul, Rantoul, IL
• - Day 3 (June 10): World Wide Technology Raceway, St. Louis, MO
• - Day 4 (June 11): Missouri State University, Springfield, MO
• - Day 5 (June 12): Tulsa Raceway Park, Tulsa, OK

Participants can now register for the event, with full details available at hotrodpowertour.us.

The Thrill of HOT ROD Drag Week

In addition to the Power Tour, the excitement continues in September with the annual HOT ROD Drag Week. Running from September 13 to 18, this rigorous competition challenges drivers to put their street-legal drag cars to the ultimate test over five action-packed days. Participants will tackle a grueling 1,000-mile route while racing to secure the fastest elapsed times.

The Drag Week’s events include:

• - September 13: Tech Inspection, Registration, Test 'N' Tune at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, IL
• - September 14: Race at Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL
• - September 15: Race at Byron Dragway, Byron, IL
• - September 16: Race at Cordova Dragway, Cordova, IL
• - September 17: Race at World Wide Technology Raceway, St. Louis, MO
• - September 18: Finals at Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL

Competitors can find more information about Drag Week at hotrod.com/hot-rod-drag-week and connect via social media platforms using hashtags like #hotroddragweek.

The Legacy Continues

The HOT ROD brand, celebrated since its inception in 1948, supports the legacy of high-performance automotive culture. With events like the HOT ROD Power Tour and Drag Week, it continues to captivate audiences by offering unparalleled access to the most extraordinary cars and the latest trends in automotive innovation.

As Route 66 celebrates its 100-year journey through the American landscape, it reminds us of the freedom and adventure embodied in the open road. The partnership with Hearst Magazines brings this celebration to a broader audience, ensuring that both new and established fans experience the thrill of automotive excellence firsthand.

Join us in celebrating these remarkable milestones as we honor the road that has captured the hearts of generations. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, the events surrounding Route 66 are set to create unforgettable memories this summer and autumn.

For further details on all the festivities, check the official websites and prepare for a thrilling ride down one of America's most beloved highways!