Growing up near Sycamore, Illinois, I always loved spending a hot summer day at the annual car show. Gorgeous vintage cars lined the street just waiting for my adoration. Now living in Berwyn, I get to enjoy our own local event: the Route 66 Car Show. But one that’s still on my festival bucket list is this internationally-loved classic car show in Springfield, Illinois.

Here’s why it’s become a favorite among car and history lovers, alike:

The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival takes place each year in the state's historic capital city of Springfield.
classic car show in Springfield, Illinois
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook
For more than 20 years, the street fest has garnered thousands of visitors from across Illinois and the Midwest who come to view incredible classic cars, participate in fun community activities, and celebrate the history of Route 66.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook
For 2023, the festival will take place on September 22-24 and will be set up around the old state capitol building and surrounding streets. The event features booths, stages, and impressive rows of vintage cars.
International Route 66 Festival

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On Friday night is the City Nights Cruise, which features more than 2,000 classic cars cruising through the historic city.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook
Another must-see is the burnout competition, which takes place Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m. Motorcycles, hot rods, and more compete to create the loudest sounds, biggest clouds, and biggest "Woah!" from the crowd.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook
The free festival also features live music and entertainment, a pageant, a farmers market, and a Q&A session on vintage cars with "My Classic Car" host Dennis Gage.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook
With so much emphasis on car admiration, history, family, and appreciation for the local community, it's no wonder this fest has been a staple for more than two decades.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival/Facebook

Have you ever been to this historic car show in Springfield, Illinois? What’s your favorite part? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival website and the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Facebook page. This top-rated, pet-friendly bungalow sleeps six and is a perfect place to stay while you’re here for the weekend. And while you’re in town, don’t forget to stop by for a pint at one of the area’s local breweries — Springfield has been ranked as the best place in Illinois for beer drinkers!

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