NM MainStreet invites travelers to get their kicks on Route 66
History, culture, local pride shine across the Mother Road for its 2026 Centennial
Contact: Jessica Mraz
(505) 365-3998
info@nmmainstreet.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 12, 2025
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
Cabinet Secretary Rob Black
Deputy Cabinet Secretary Isaac Romero
NM MainStreet Director Daniel J. Gutierrez
NM MainStreet invites travelers to get their kicks on Route 66
History, culture, local pride shine across the Mother Road for its 2026 Centennial
SANTA FE — From Tucumcari to Gallup, ten NM MainStreet districts along the iconic Route 66 highway welcome visitors to rediscover their small businesses, evocative places, and family-friendly events during the 2026 Centennial celebration.
MainStreet’s community economic development leaders anticipate a significant boost in tourism next year as they’ve planned memorable events, invested in public art installations, organized community clean-ups, and more to welcome travel enthusiasts and cultural explorers to their vibrant districts.
“New Mexico’s stretch of Route 66 is as iconic as it is expansive,” said Cabinet Secretary Rob Black of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. “We welcome visitors from all over the globe to explore our Main Streets and homegrown businesses as we celebrate the Mother Road’s historic milestone."
This highly anticipated celebration is an opportunity for New Mexico communities to showcase local stories, history, and resilience, while advocating for their tourist destinations, cultural landmarks, and local businesses.
“Our MainStreet districts along the Mother Road are filled with local spirit, historic character, and warm hospitality,” said Daniel J. Gutierrez , New Mexico MainStreet director. “If you’re chasing neon, retro diners, or the heart of the southwest, we invite you to discover these gems in our communities during the Route 66 Centennial and beyond.”
MainStreet districts will host signature events, movie screenings, car shows, festivals, and more activities to share their unique place along the Mother Road. Learn more about the districts and Centennial events at nmmainstreet.org/route66 .
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New Mexico MainStreet is a program of the New Mexico Economic Development Department that develops local capacity to engage people, rebuild places, and grow the entrepreneurial, creative, and business environment, resulting in economically thriving downtowns, greater business and employment opportunities, and a higher quality of life. Founded in 1984, NM MainStreet currently serves 32 MainStreet and 13 Arts & Cultural Districts. Learn more at nmmainstreet.org .
EDD’s mission is to improve the lives of New Mexico families by increasing economic opportunities and providing a place for businesses to thrive. EDD’s programs contribute directly to this mission by funding workforce training and infrastructure that supports business growth, helping every community create a thriving economy.
New Mexico Economic Development Department
EDD.NewMexico.gov
New Mexico Economic Development Department | 1100 South St. Francis Dr Joseph M. Montoya Building | Santa Fe, NM 87505-4147 US
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