Free Summer Festival Celebrates 100 Years of Route 66 at Gathering Place

On Saturday, July 18, Gathering Place will host the Route 66 Festival: Tales of the Mother Road, a free community celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of the iconic Mother Road. Taking place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., the festival transforms the park into a nostalgic Route 66 destination filled with live music, family activities, local vendors, themed food, and interactive experiences for all ages.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a full lineup of performances celebrating the history and culture of Route 66, culminating in a free concert featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter Marc Broussard. Additional entertainment includes Native American dance demonstrations, swing and country western dance lessons, storytelling, theatrical performances, live music from local artists, and improv and comedy.

Families can also explore hands-on educational activities inspired by Route 66, shop a marketplace featuring local artists and Route 66-inspired vendors, and enjoy food trucks serving everything from Oklahoma favorites to classic roadside treats.

One of the festival’s most unique attractions will be the traveling Big Texan 72 oz. Steak Challenge, where guests can cheer on participants attempting the legendary Route 66 food challenge throughout the day.

As Gathering Place’s largest event of the year and one of Tulsa’s signature Route 66 Centennial celebrations, the festival offers a full day of free entertainment celebrating the history, culture, and communities that have made the Route 66 an American icon.