Tulsa, Oklahoma, has etched its name in history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the Largest Parade of Classic Cars. On May 30, 2026, 3,596 classic cars cruised down the iconic Route 66, surpassing the previous record by 1,105 vehicles. This remarkable event was part of Tulsa’s Route 66 Capital Cruise, a celebration of the Route 66 Centennial.

A Community Effort

The success of the parade was the result of nearly a year-long effort involving numerous partners across Tulsa. Mayor Monroe Nichols expressed his pride in the city, stating, “Tulsa’s Route 66 Capital Cruise was a nearly year-long effort from partners all over Tulsa to remind the world that we are the Capital of Route 66 and that no city does things the way Tulsa does.”

The parade featured notable figures such as Route 66 historian Michael Wallis, Vice Grip Garage founder Derek Bieri, and Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell. Lt. Governor Pinnell highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “Capital Cruise was a massive undertaking, and it paid off in a massive way, nearly doubling the existing world record, proving that Route 66 is not just central to the history of Oklahoma, but the future as well.”

International Participation

Participants from 42 states, Canada, and France joined the parade, bringing international attention to Tulsa. An estimated 100,000 spectators lined 11th Street to witness the historic event. The parade route included 16 different Cruise Party Zones, transforming parking lots into lively block parties.

Christian Bengel, Chair of the Tulsa Route 66 Commission, emphasized Tulsa’s spirit, stating, “It’s who we are. I always believed we would set the record, but never in my own vision of its grandeur and splendor did I imagine Capital Cruise becoming such a shared and anticipated worldwide phenomenon.”

Economic and Cultural Impact

Renee McKenney, senior vice president of tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber, noted the event’s impact on local tourism. “What an amazing effort from everyone across the city to make Capital Cruise a success in the Capital of Route 66. That community pride drives visitors to Tulsa to experience history and celebrate the Route 66 Centennial together,” she said.

The Tulsa Route 66 Commission continues to support efforts to promote Route 66 locally and statewide, encouraging economic development and cultural preservation. For more information, visit their Facebook page or the Visit Tulsa website.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.