Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66
This summer, automotive enthusiasts will find themselves among a sea of classic cars, high-performance vehicles, and a vibrant community of passionate fans during two major events: the
HOT ROD Power Tour in June and the
HOT ROD Drag Week in September. Both events are part of the celebration commemorating the hundredth anniversary of America’s iconic Route 66. Known as the Mother Road, Route 66 has played a crucial role in the automotive history and culture of the United States, making these events a perfect tribute.
HOT ROD Power Tour Details
The
HOT ROD Power Tour, presented by Chevrolet Performance Parts, is recognized as America’s largest traveling car show. Kicking off on June 8, 2026, at the
Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, this event will take participants through various stops along the legendary highway over five exciting days. The tour will showcase more than 6,000 cars and trucks, attracting tens of thousands of fans who come to admire the vehicles and share their love for automobiles.
The Power Tour itinerary includes:
- - 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
Although registration for this year’s Power Tour has already sold out, fans can still participate as spectators. Attendee details, early credential pickups, and more information can be found at
hotrodpowertour.us.
HOT ROD Drag Week Overview
Following closely behind, the
HOT ROD Drag Week begins on September 13, 2026, also at the Route 66 Raceway. This event is renowned as the most formidable competition for street-legal drag racing, calling for serious racers to put their skills and cars to the ultimate test. Over five demanding days, competitors will race their vehicles, driving approximately 1,000 miles across multiple tracks to secure the best elapsed time.
Participants will face rigorous challenges including:
- - Tech Inspection and Registration: September 13 at Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL
- - Day 1 (September 14): Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL
- - Day 2 (September 15): Byron Dragway, Byron, IL
- - Day 3 (September 16): Cordova Dragway, Cordova, IL
- - Day 4 (September 17): World Wide Technology Raceway, St. Louis, MO
- - Finals (Day 5, September 18): Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, IL
For those interested in witnessing the action, additional details on the Drag Week can be found at
hotrod.com/hot-rod-drag-week. Be sure to follow the excitement on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where fans can connect and use the hashtag #hotroddragweek to share their experiences.
Conclusion
This summer, join automotive enthusiasts in celebrating a century of Route 66 with the HOT ROD Power Tour and Drag Week. Whether you’re showcasing your own classic car, cheering from the sidelines, or simply exploring the history and legacy of this iconic highway, it promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with excitement, camaraderie, and a deep passion for all things automotive. Let's hit the road!