Classic cars, packed streets as Springfield erupts for Route 66 celebration, drawing national attention

“Friends” co-host Steve Doocy wrapped up his Route 66 road trip Thursday, spending time in Springfield, Missouri, to celebrate the historic highway’s 100th anniversary this year.

The visit marked the final leg of Doocy’s three-day journey along the iconic roadway, often called the “Mother Road,” whichstretches from Chicagoto Santa Monica, California.

After kicking off the trip in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and traveling through Kansas, Doocy arrived in Springfield, widely recognized as the birthplace of Route 66.

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“Everybody today here in Springfield is wearing their Route 66 merch,” Doocy said during a live segment.

On Thursday, Doocy was broadcasting live from along the route, where locals andcar enthusiastsgathered with classic vehicles to mark the milestone.

“It’s been really interesting because so many people in all the towns that we have visited have turned out,” Doocy said.“In these towns, this is a very big deal.”

Classic Mustangs lined the roadway as part of the celebration, with owners showing off vehiclestied to the historyand culture of Route 66.

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With a stop on Thursday in Springfield, Mo., marking the iconic highway’s centennial celebration, Steve Doocy of �Friends” concluded his Route 66 journey.(iStock)

The segment also featured former Missouri Rep.Billy Long, set to serve as the next U.S.ambassador to Iceland.

Long emphasized Springfield’s historic significance.

The segment also featured former Missouri Rep.Billy Long, who emphasized Springfield’s historic significance.Friends)

“This is the birthplace of Route 66,” Long said. 

“I was born here.Route 66 was born here.”

intercontinental roadthrough the country,” Long said, adding that an auctioneer in the room counted through possible route numbers before landing on 66.

Springfield is widely recognized as the birthplace of Route 66.(iStock)

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The celebration in Springfield marked the official kickoff of events commemorating the highway’s centennial, with communities across the country expected to take part throughoutAmerica’s 250th birthday year.

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Doocy’sroad triphighlighted the people, places and traditions that continue to keep the spirit of Route 66 alive nearly a century after its creation.