The 2024 Texas Route 66 Festival was another success! We celebrated all things Route 66, and this year's festivities were even better than ever. The grand finale, presented by Amarillo National Bank, was the perfect ending to 10 action-packed days of Route 66 fun.
Festival Highlights
Night Under the Neon | U Drop Inn & Cafe - Shamrock, TX
Kicking off the Texas Route 66 Festival were several exciting events, including the Coors Cowboy Club Ranch Rodeo, the First Thursday Art Walk, and Music in the Gardens. One of the standout evenings was the Night Under the Neon at the U Drop Inn & Cafe in Shamrock, TX. This iconic Route 66 stop hosted an unforgettable night filled with live music and dancing under the glow of their historic Conoco Station.
Did you know the U Drop Inn & Cafe was the inspiration for Ramone's body shop in Disney Pixar's hit movie, Cars? The U Drop Inn and Cafe's distinctive Art Deco architecture and neon lights have made it a beloved landmark, capturing the hearts of visitors near and far.
In addition to Ramone's body shop, much of the movie was inspired by sites and stops along Texas Route 66. Whether you're a movie buff or a history enthusiast, a visit to this iconic cafe is a must-see. And you must try their amazing banana splits!
Disco in the Desert & TX 66 Celebrity Fast Draw Shoot Out
Another highlight of the festival was the Disco in the Desert event at The Western Horseman and Cactus Cove Inn and Suites. This event unveiled a stunning new mural by Blank Spaces Murals, adding a splash of color to Amarillo.
The TX 66 Celebrity Shoot Out was a thrilling event as part of the Cowboy Fast Draw Association National Championship. Local celebrities showed off their quick-draw skills in a competition that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
This year’s competitors included:
- Mayor Cole Stanley, AKA Quick Draw McGraw
- Commissioner John Coffee, AKA Iron John
- Guy Bell – Local Celebrity, AKA Bullseye Guy
- Ali Allison – News Anchor, AKA Ali Sidewinder Allison
- Don Sober - CCC, AKA Sobie
- Kashion Smith – ACVB Executive Director, AKA Red Boot Renegade
- Maria Pasillas – Channel 4 Meteorologist, AKA Perfect Storm
- Phyllis Golden – Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West, AKA Feisty Phyl
- Patrick Lee – Big Texan & Starlight Ranch, AKA Big TX
- Cliff Powers - Mernickle Holsters, AKA Howlin Wolf
The competition was fierce, and the final showdown was between Mayor Cole Stanley and Patrick Lee of The Big Texan. Both competitors showcased incredible skill, but in the end, it was Patrick Lee who was victorious.
Star Watch Party at Jericho 66
The Star Watch Party at Jericho on 66 was a beautiful evening under the Texas sky. Jericho, once a bustling stop on the The Mother Road, now stands as a reminder of the past. The ghost town, rich with history and significance along Route 66, was a great backdrop for this event.
The evening kicked off with an array of vendors, food trucks, and hay rides. As the sunset, attendees prepared for a stargazing session with the Amarillo Astronomy Club.
Coor Cowboy Club Cattle Drive & Parade
The Coors Cowboy Club Cattle Drive & Parade is one of the community's favorite events. This cattle drive and parade celebrates Amarillo's true Western heritage. Adding to our festivities each year is the CCC Cattle Drive & Parade Photo Contest sponsored by Center City Amarillo.
Congratulations to our 2024 winner, Nancy Lopez, winner of the 'Capture the Wild West' category, and David McCoune, winner of the '100 Years of Road Tripping' category. Their stunning photographs perfectly captured the essence of our rich history and the spirit of Texas Route 66.
Dream Maker Station Car Show - Adrian, TX
Dream Maker Station hosted Adrian, TX's first car show in over 23 years, drawing an amazing turnout. Classic car enthusiasts and stunning vehicles filled the streets. It was a true celebration of classic cars and the rich heritage of the Mother Road.
Route 66 Night at Hodgetown Stadium
Route 66 Night at Hodgetown Stadium was a blast! The night kicked off with a lively game, followed by Amarillo's very first Route 66 themed Drone Show. The drones lit up the sky, creating dazzling displays that celebrated the iconic Route 66.
Texas 66 Festival Finale presented by Amarillo National Bank
The Texas Route 66 Festival Finale presented by ANB was the incredible end to a fun week of festivities. Attendees gathered from as far as Germany to celebrate Route 66. The finale featured live music, delicious bites, and fun activities, that delighted visitors of all ages.
Highlights included the return of the beloved Miss Texas Route 66 Pinup Pageant, where participants showcased vintage fashion and timeless elegance, and the Sonic 66 Corn Dog Eating Contest.
The Texas Route 66 Festival Finale presented by ANB not only honored the legacy of the Mother Road but also showcased the vibrant spirit and community pride of Amarillo and its surrounding areas.
Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for the next two years of the Texas Route 66 Festival! As we look forward to continuing this beloved tradition, we're especially excited about the 2026 celebration, which will mark the 100th anniversary of Route 66.
Don't miss out on being part of this iconic celebration!
2025: June 5 - 14
2026: June 4-13
Explore Texas Route 66
In Amarillo, you'll encounter landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch, where art meets automotive history, and the Big Texan Steak Ranch, a classic stop for a hearty meal and a taste of Texan hospitality. Beyond Amarillo, Texas Route 66 offers a scenic drive filled with nostalgic roadside attractions, historic motels, and vibrant murals in charming small towns.
Plan your trip to explore the legendary Route 66 in Amarillo and its surrounding areas today! Start by mapping out your must-see attractions. Find itineraries, insider tips, and recommendations here.
Follow Visit Amarillo to stay updated on local events festivals, and more! Your Route 66 adventure starts here with us at Visit Amarillo.
