Oklahoma City, December 10, 2025
Amy Blackburn has been appointed as the new director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, effective in early 2026. Her leadership will be crucial as Oklahoma prepares for the centennial celebrations of Route 66, a significant part of the state’s heritage. The celebrations will feature various events, including the Route 66 Capital Cruise and a wide array of community activities, highlighting the state’s commitment to tourism and cultural appreciation.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Amy Blackburn has been appointed as the new director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, a role she will assume in early 2026. This appointment comes at a pivotal time as Oklahoma prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.
Appointment of Amy Blackburn
Amy Blackburn’s appointment brings fresh leadership to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, signaling a commitment to fostering tourism and recreational activities across the state. This role becomes crucial as the state gears up for significant celebrations to honor the historical Route 66, known as the Mother Road, which has played an essential role in Oklahoma’s development and identity.
Route 66 Centennial Celebrations
With over 400 miles of its length running through Oklahoma, Route 66 is ready for a grand celebration in 2026. The Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission has unveiled an exciting lineup of events designed to attract tourists and locals alike while showcasing Oklahoma’s vibrant history and culture:
- Route 66 Capital Cruise – Set for May 30, 2026, in Tulsa, this event aims to host the largest classic car parade ever held on the highway, marking Route 66’s official 100th birthday.
- Route 66 “Kickin’ It” Centennial Birthday Bash – Also slated for May 30, this festival in Oklahoma City will feature live entertainment, local cuisine, and various interactive experiences that celebrate the road’s cultural impact.
- Oklahoma Route 66 Mural Fest – Taking place on July 18, 2026, this event will unveil brand new murals across Route 66 communities, highlighting local artists and fostering community pride.
- AAA Route 66 Road Fest – Set for June 27-28, 2026, at the SageNet Center in Tulsa, this festival will offer interactive history exhibits, classic car displays, and family-friendly activities.
- Round Barn Round-Up – Occurring on October 17, 2026, at the Round Barn in Arcadia, this music and arts festival will include a fiddle contest inspired by the antics of Otto Funk, a notable figure from the 1920s who traveled along Route 66.
Additional Events and Initiatives
Beyond the major events hosted by the Centennial Commission, local communities along Route 66 are also planning their celebrations. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association has announced additional events, such as:
- Big Band Hangar Dance – April 25, 2026, at the Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford, this event celebrates the early days of Route 66.
- Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame Induction – Taking place on July 25, 2026, this ceremony at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton will honor both past and new inductees to the Hall of Fame.
- Centennial Car Show and Cars Movie Screening – On September 26, 2026, the Tee Pee Drive-In in Sapulpa will host a car show alongside a screening of the beloved Pixar film “Cars,” featuring special guests to enhance the experience.
- Round Barn Round-Up – Scheduled for October 17, 2026, in Arcadia, this festival will once again host the fiddle contest inspired by Otto Funk.
These events not only celebrate Route 66 but also highlight the resilience and initiative of local communities, showcasing how individual efforts, coupled with limited bureaucracy, can lead to meaningful engagement and participation.
Background on Route 66 Centennial
Designated on November 11, 1926, Route 66 has established itself as one of the most iconic highways in the United States, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. The upcoming centennial celebrations in 2026 present an opportunity for Oklahoma to shine a spotlight on its contributions to the legacy of the Mother Road, ultimately enhancing its tourist appeal and invigorating local economies.
Conclusion
With Amy Blackburn at the helm of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and the momentum building for the Route 66 centennial celebrations, Oklahoma stands poised to honor its rich history while encouraging civic engagement and participation. These events promise to celebrate not only the iconic highway but also the spirit of community collaboration that drives progress and innovation.
FAQ
Who is Amy Blackburn?
Amy Blackburn has been appointed as the new director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, a role she will assume in early 2026. This appointment comes ahead of the 100th anniversary of Route 66, which will be celebrated throughout the state in 2026.
What are the major events planned for the Route 66 centennial in Oklahoma?
Major events include the Route 66 Capital Cruise on May 30, 2026, in Tulsa; the Route 66 “Kickin’ It” Centennial Birthday Bash on the same day in Oklahoma City; the Oklahoma Route 66 Mural Fest on July 18, 2026; the AAA Route 66 Road Fest on June 27-28, 2026, in Tulsa; and the Round Barn Round-Up on October 17, 2026, in Arcadia.
What is the significance of Route 66 in Oklahoma?
Route 66, established on November 11, 1926, is one of the most iconic highways in the United States, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. Oklahoma boasts the longest drivable stretch of the Mother Road, with over 400 miles traversing the state. The centennial celebrations in 2026 are expected to draw significant attention to Oklahoma’s contributions to the Route 66 legacy.
Key Features of the Route 66 Centennial Celebrations in Oklahoma
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route 66 Capital Cruise | May 30, 2026 | Tulsa | Largest classic car parade marking Route 66’s 100th birthday. |
| Route 66 “Kickin’ It” Centennial Birthday Bash | May 30, 2026 | Oklahoma City | Full-day festival with live entertainment and local cuisine. |
| Oklahoma Route 66 Mural Fest | July 18, 2026 | Statewide | Unveiling of new murals along Route 66 communities. |
| AAA Route 66 Road Fest | June 27-28, 2026 | Tulsa | Interactive history exhibits and classic car displays. |
| Round Barn Round-Up | October 17, 2026 | Arcadia | Music and arts festival celebrating Route 66 heritage. |
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