The historic Mother Road is about to get a birthday celebration for the ages. Tulsa, proudly known as the Capital of Route 66, is preparing to host what could become the world's largest classic car parade in honor of the legendary highway's centennial anniversary.

On May 30th, thousands of gleaming vintage automobiles will roll through downtown Tulsa in the Route 66 Capital Cruise: Classic Car Centennial Parade. But this isn't just any car show. Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell and local leaders announced Friday that they're aiming for an official Guinness World Records attempt, hoping to gather an impressive 3,000 classic cars for the historic procession.

The current world record stands at 2,691 classic cars, set in Dorado, Puerto Rico in 2017. Tulsa organizers aren't content to simply break that record. They want to blow it out of the water and establish a new benchmark that will stand for years to come.

Tim Taylor, who operates both the Friday Claremore Cruise and the Tulsa Tuesday Cruise, believes the ambitious goal is absolutely achievable. "There are more than 3,000 classic cars just in Tulsa," Taylor explained enthusiastically. "There are thousands and thousands of cars in people's garages, but they don't get out every week." Taylor's personal collection alone includes over 20 classic vehicles, and he plans to recruit every friend and relative to help drive them in the parade.

The parade route will showcase the best of Tulsa's Route 66 heritage. Classic cars, all model year 1995 or older, will gather at Expo Square before heading north on Yale Avenue, then turning west on 11th Street to begin the 5.5 mile journey down the iconic stretch of Route 66, ending along Southwest Boulevard. The official tally will take place at the Mother Road Market, a fitting location that celebrates Route 66's enduring cultural significance.

The Ripple Effect

This celebration represents far more than just a parade of beautiful automobiles. Brian Paschal, CEO of the George Kaiser Family Foundation and vice chairman of the Tulsa Route 66 Commission, emphasized the deeper meaning behind the event. "The Capital Cruise will be like no other along the route throughout the country, and the Mother Road Market and the Tulsa Market District could not be more excited to host representatives from Guinness World Records for an official largest classic car parade record setting attempt," he said.

Lieutenant Governor Pinnell highlighted Tulsa's unique position as home to more miles of the famous highway than any other location in the world. He sees the centennial as an opportunity for unity and celebration. "Route 66, I believe, is the story of America. It is the main street of America for a reason, and I think it's the road, and it is the centennial that can absolutely unite this country at a time when we desperately need it," Pinnell shared.

Jonathan Huskey, senior director of communications for Tulsa Regional Tourism, made it clear that all classic car enthusiasts are welcome. "If you would like to be a part of history and can drive a car, model 1995 or older, head to capitalofoute66.com where you can sign up," he encouraged. "Now don't think it has to be a muscle car. If you've got a 1995 Camry and it runs, sign up."

As America celebrates both Route 66's centennial and the nation's 250th birthday in 2025, Tulsa is ready to showcase why it truly deserves its title as the Capital of Route 66.