KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of historic trucks will roll into Springfield this summer as part of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration, when the American Truck Historical Society hosts its 2026 National Convention & Truck Show.
“ATHS is proud to be an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration,” said Courtney Cesar, ATHS convention organizer. “There’s no better way to celebrate Route 66 than with the trucks that helped build it. As a historic hub along Route 66, Springfield provides the perfect backdrop for a gathering that honors the legacy and evolution of trucking.”
2026 National Convention & Truck Show
The weeklong event begins June 2 with trucks arriving at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. The main show event is scheduled for June 4-6.
Springfield, a key stop along historic Route 66, serves as a fitting host city as the iconic highway marks its 100th anniversary. The event is recognized as an official attraction of Route 66 Centennial Celebration.
Spectators can expect hundreds of trucks on display, ranging from restored classics to rare working rigs.
“Each of these trucks has its own story and craftsmanship,” said Peter Wild, ATHS convention committee chair. “The convention provides a welcoming space for all trucking enthusiasts to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share the passion for trucking history during the show and at special events throughout the week.”
Engaging Activities
Beyond the show field, the convention offers a full schedule of engaging activities ranging from educational sessions, hands-on demonstrations, vendor exhibits and an evening light show highlighting the trucks. In addition, attendees can enter a raffle for a chance to win VIP tickets to a NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway in September.
Visitors can also explore Springfield’s Route 66 landmarks, including the Route 66 Visitor Center, local museums, and roadside attractions such as the World’s Largest Fork and the Birthplace of Route 66 sign.
ATHS credits its volunteers, sponsors and supporters for making the event possible. Sponsors include Cummins, Mack Trucks, Kenworth, Vander Haag’s, Iowa 80, CAT Scale, Truckomat, Clark Freight, Reiselt’s Machine Works, Gully Transportation and the Sercombe family.
More information and registration details are available here or through the ATHS Connect mobile app.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
