SPRINGFIELD (WBBM NEWSADIO) -- The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in Springfield is kicking off a celebration this weekend.
The 18th annual event runs from Chicago to Los Angeles and attracts people from all over the U.S. and even Europe, said Route 66 Scenic Byway Executive Director Bill Kelly. Route 66 has a strong hold on Europeans, he said.
“A lot of us had cars like that when we were in high school, or our parents or grandparents had one. We’ve grown up with them,” Taylor said, turning his attention to the Bel Air. “They’re hard to find, and if you do find ‘em, people are pretty proud of ‘em. They don’t come cheap.”
The festival runs through Sunday and has several events planned for the weekend. Visit the festival website for a schedule of events.