A big weekend for Route 66 towns

With the Route 66 Centennial drawing national and international attention, communities along the Red Carpet Corridor are preparing for one of the busiest tourism weekends in recent memory.
From Joliet to Bloomington-Normal, towns are organizing vendor markets, entertainment, historic displays, and family-friendly activities designed to welcome travelers celebrating the Mother Road’s 100th birthday.
The festival began in 2007, and was created to promote tourism and economic development in the roughly 100-mile stretch between Joliet and Bloomington-Normal.
While each town offers its own personality and attractions, the shared goal remains the same — inviting visitors to explore the history, nostalgia, and small-town charm that continue to define Route 66.
Following is a sample of activities in towns in this readership area.
Wilmington: A ‘Giant’ hub of activity
Wilmington is expected to be one of the busiest stops along the corridor, with activities planned throughout the downtown area and at the Route 66 Gemini Giant site.
Downtown Wilmington will host a flea market featuring approximately 90 vendors, filling two full blocks of the city’s business district. Food trucks, shopping opportunities and community entertainment are expected to draw steady crowds throughout the weekend.
The Wilmington Chamber is coordinating the flea market and sold out of vendor spaces a week early.
Chamber President Steven Evans said never before has the market sold out early. To open up additional spaces he moved all the food vendors onto the city parking lot in the 220 block of north Water Street.
That’s also where the Oscar Meyer Wienermobile will be parked 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Look for the Chamber tent where the Red Carpet giveaway will be available. The 15 towns—from Joliet to Bloomington—that make up the 100-mile stretch of the Red Carpet will each be handing out its own sticker. Those can be applied to a free water bottle that travelers reserve ahead of time at the Red Carpet website.
Additional activity is centered near the Gemini Giant, where the Wilmington Island Park District operates The Landing souvenir shop.
Saturday activities near the Gemini Giant will include special Route 66-themed root beer and soda floats served in commemorative centennial cups, along with face painting for families arriving in town for the flea market.
Sunday will feature the Rotary Club’s Sip and Stroll event, which will include raffles, art displays, live music and beverage tastings. Visitors will also be able to collect commemorative Route 66 stickers at the Landing Pad Sunday.
Braidwood:
Americana and kitsch
The fun begins with a visit to the Braidwood Lions Club Information booth to pick up commemorative giveaways, while supplies last. The Braidwood Zoo offers a quirky photo venue, featuring sculptures by the late Jack Barker.
Browse vendors and enjoy a vintage car show in Polk-A-Dot’s lot. While you’re there, pose with Elvis, Superman, or other American heroes. Enjoy Americana snacks at the restaurant.
Sunday will feature music by the Silhouettes from noon to 4 p.m. Feel free to enjoy exhibits at the Braidwood Historical Museum at 111 N. Center St.
Citywide vendor markets and yard sales are expected to take place throughout the weekend, with organizers reporting that vendor space has already reached capacity.
Much of the attention in Braidwood centers around its well-known Route 66 attractions such as Polk-A-Dot Drive In, Braidwood Zoo, and Braidwood Historical Museum, where visitors frequently gather to take photos, purchase souvenirs and experience the nostalgic feel of the historic highway.
Elwood: Fun
begins early
Elwood is starting the celebrations early. On May 1, Elwood Village Hall will be the site of a car show, music, and much more.
Saturday and Sunday get free stuff (while supplies last), vendors and a farmers market will be hawking their wares, and antique tractors will be on display.
Godley: Mining History
Though smaller than neighboring communities, Godley offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s industrial and mining past.
Community yard sales and local vendor stops are expected throughout the village, giving travelers opportunities to browse antiques, collectibles and handmade goods.
On Saturday, Rosie and the Rivets will be feature music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and by the Jimmy Monsen Band from 3-5 p.m.
Hot dogs, popcorn, and cotton candy will be given away while supplies last.
On Sunday, visit the iconic Stumble Inn at 201 Kankakee St. for giveaways.
Braceville: Grassroots celebrations
Braceville adds a distinctly small-town feel to the Red Carpet Corridor experience.
Community-led events, including yard sales and vendor booths, are expected to line portions of the village, offering visitors a chance to interact directly with residents and local organizations.
The Braceville Fire Dept., 101 State Rd. 53, will be serving hot dogs and hamburgers Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., contributing to the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Braceville.
Gardner: Hoosegow mug shots & more
Visit the mayor at Gardner’s two-cell jail for this year’s giveaway. The Gardner Lions Club will be serving up root beer floats and pork chop sandwiches starting at 10 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy a sidewalk sale on Depot street. For the kiddies, there will be an inflatable bounce house.
Saturday-only events on Depot Street include a car show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Elvis impersonator from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Sunday only, there will be a tractor show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Down the road
Additional stops can be made in seven more towns south on the Mother Road. Each town will be handing out the collectible while supplies last.