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Revving Up for the 36th Annual Route 66 Fun Run: May 2–4, 2025

  • Jenny Wallace
  • Apr 20
  • 3 min read

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Dust off your classic ride and tune up your engine—one of Route 66’s most celebrated traditions is rolling back into Arizona for its 36th Annual Route 66 Fun Run, running from May 2–4, 2025. Whether you’re a vintage‑car aficionado, a Route 66 historian, or simply someone chasing that open‑road feeling, here’s everything you need to know to join in the fun.

What Is the Route 66 Fun Run?

The Fun Run is a three‑day, 140‑mile cruise along one of the Mother Road’s most scenic stretches—beginning in Seligman and ending in Topock/Golden Shores. Each year, over 800 vehicles (from ’50s hot rods to modern classics) converge on this historic highway for:

  • Live music under the desert sky

  • Show ’n Shine car exhibits in Kingman

  • Local food vendors serving southwestern favorites

  • Family‑friendly activities and history pop‑ups

For full details on vehicle registration and route maps, visit the Historic 66 Arizona Fun Run page.

Day‑By‑Day Highlights

Friday, May 2: Kicking Off in Seligman

  • Registration & Welcome Reception: Meet fellow drivers and pick up your rally packet at the historic Snow Cap Drive‑In.

  • Live DJ & Photo Ops: Strike a pose by the “Welcome to Historic Seligman” sign and enjoy tunes spun by local favorites.

Saturday, May 3: Cruise & Car Shows

  • Main Cruise: Depart Seligman in waves, tracing the old highway through Peach Springs and Truxton.

  • Kingman “Show ’n Shine”: Display your pride and joy in downtown Kingman—judged categories include “Best Restored” and “People’s Choice.”

  • Evening Bash: Live country and rock bands perform at the historic Powerhouse Visitors Center.

Sunday, May 4: Finale at Topock/Golden Shores

  • Coastal Drive-In Awards Ceremony: Trophies for Best in Class, Longest Distance Traveled, and more.

  • Community BBQ & Farewell: Meet locals, swap stories, and savor the desert sunset before everyone heads home.

Why You Can’t Miss It

  1. A Living History Tour Route 66 shaped America’s westward expansion and car culture. Cruising these asphalt relics is like driving through a living museum— neon‑lit motels, abandoned gas stations, and roadside attractions all whisper stories of a bygone era.

  2. Community & Camaraderie Unlike high‑speed races, the Fun Run is about fellowship. Whether you’re a window‑tinter or a wrench‑turner, you’ll find your people here—enthusiasts as passionate about engine specs as they are about roadside diners.

  3. Preview to the Centennial With the Route 66 Centennial on the horizon in 2026, this year’s Fun Run is the final major gathering before nationwide festivities kick off. Expect special centennial exhibits along the route and surprise guest appearances from Route 66 preservationists.

Tips for a Smooth Ride

  • Book Early: Lodging in Seligman and Kingman fills up fast. Check Historic 66 AZ’s partner hotels for shuttles and block‑room rates.

  • Prep Your Car: Get a full tune‑up—radiator flush, brake check, and tire rotation—to withstand desert temperatures.

  • Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, and a printed route map (GPS can’t always be trusted on backroads!).

  • Plan Photo Stops: Iconic murals in Seligman, the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, and the twin bridges over the Colorado River are must‑captures.

Join the Celebration

Whether you’re waving from the crowd in Kingman or laying rubber on the open highway, the 2025 Route 66 Fun Run promises nostalgia, adventure, and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Ready your ride, set your playlist to classic road tunes, and hit the Mother Road this May!

For more information and to register your vehicle, head to the official Route 66 Fun Run website. See you on the highway!

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