2013 Route 66 International Festival set to be held in Joplin, Missouri
The annual gathering of the Route 66 enthusiasts, where they come together to celebrate the heritage of the Mother Road, will be held in Joplin, Missouri, August 1-3, 2013. The Route 66 International Festival is where Roadies, as they are affectionately known, from around the World will meet to share their love and passion for the historic route which dates back to 1926.
The Joplin event will mark the first time The International has been held in Missouri. Most recently, in 2012 Victorville, California hosted the event and Amarillo, Texas was the site in 2011. For Joplin this will be an opportunity to show the World the success they are achieving in their recovery from the May 22, 2011, EF-5 tornado which impacted a third of the city. Of the 6 miles of Route 66 that passes through Joplin none was affected by the tornado.
The festival will offer many different activities such as exhibits and vintage car shows showcasing the impact Route 66 has had on the American fabric; through transportation, culture, art and entertainment. Artist, authors and collectors of all things Route 66 will participate in the Festival to share stories, ideas and enjoy the local Route 66 heritage. The Main Street America Marketplace will be the location for these vendors to show and sell their specialties, arts and antiques. Additionally, bike rallies, a beauty pageant, military exhibitions, a young Roadies parade, carnival rides and so much more will offer something for everyone.
Interest in the Route’s preservation, history and legislative matters form the agenda of a Summit Meeting held Friday morning of the festival weekend. This meeting brings together the National Park Service and the 8 state associations to discuss concerns and achievements in keeping the historic route alive. A preservation project will allow Roadies to leave a little of their personal spirit along the road they cherish and brighten Joplin’s future. The partner organization behind the Festival is the Route 66 Alliance a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and enhancement of historic Route 66 — past, present and future.
