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The 2026 Great Race Celebrates Route 66 in San Bernardino!

Update The Excitement Builds for the 2026 Great Race in San Bernardino San Bernardino is set to become a crucial stop on this year’s Great Race, an annual competition that thrills car lovers and history buffs alike. Taking place on June 27, 2026, the event features vintage vehicles racing down historic Route 66, celebrating a monumental milestone—the 100th anniversary of this iconic highway. Since 1983, the Great Race has attracted participants eager to showcase their classic cars and experience the charm of America’s automotive legacy. A Legacy of Adventure and Connection As racers journey from Springfield, Illinois to Pasadena, California, the Great Race underscores Route 66’s rich history. Designated an official Route 66 Centennial Event, this year’s race turns the spotlight on the cultural significance embedded within America’s “Mother Road.” Central to this legacy is the sense of adventure that Route 66 embodies, inviting not only participants but also thousands of spectators to engage with the spirit of exploration. What to Expect During the Event In San Bernardino, the race will conclude at the San Manuel Stadium, granting locals and visitors a chance to partake in various festivities. The Inland Empire 66ers baseball team is teaming up with the organizers to deliver a day packed with fun activities just before the stadium hosts a baseball game. While the event will attract die-hard car enthusiasts, it promises to be a family-friendly outing, further enhancing community ties. Historical Context of Route 66 Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 runs through the heart of San Bernardino, showcasing the area’s pivotal role in the route’s history. From historic diners to neon-lit main streets, each stop reveals stories of resilience and connection, illustrating how this road has become a symbol of Americana. The Great Race not only highlights these landmarks but also revitalizes interest in their preservation, ensuring they remain integral to future generations. Community Engagement and Beyond For local residents and businesses, the Great Race acts as a catalyst for community engagement. Anticipating this influx of visitors, many businesses are already gearing up to welcome participants and attendees, from offering special race-themed promotions to organizing their own events in conjunction. The event is an opportunity to strengthen local pride, heighten economic activity, and promote San Bernardino as a vibrant hub of culture and heritage. Looking Further Ahead As details continue to unfold regarding the Staging and festivities surrounding the Great Race, community leaders and residents alike eagerly anticipate the event, recognizing its potential to enrich the local economy and reinforce community bonds. Whether you are a car enthusiast, history lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, the 2026 Great Race is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience. Join in the excitement and mark your calendars for June 27, 2026, when San Bernardino takes the spotlight on this historic road trip. Engage with fellow community members and visitors as we celebrate not only the artistry of vintage cars but also our shared heritage along Route 66!