On Saturday, Bethany honored the historic Route 66 centennial with a vibrant, family‑focused celebration that began at 9 a.m. and concluded outside Bethany Children’s Hospital. The daylong event offered a street fair, a Christmas market, a variety of games, and a petting zoo that delighted children and adults alike.
Community Activities and Faith‑Centered Celebration
Local families gathered to enjoy the festive atmosphere, with many praising the event’s blend of heritage and community spirit. “Just to be able to celebrate Route 66. Man, we’re having a party out here. We’re just praising God on what He’s doing through this space. I just can’t be more happy,” said Nico Gomez, CEO of Bethany Children’s Hospital, highlighting the faith‑based gratitude that underscored the day.
Attendees described the weather as perfect for outdoor fun. “It’s so fun. It’s been such a good time to see. It’s beautiful weather to see everyone,” shared the Gutmann family, reflecting the broad enthusiasm among local residents.
Petting Zoo Draws Young Crowds
The petting zoo proved to be a major draw for the youngest visitors. “The petting zoo is a really fun thing for all the kids that are here, and all the animals are really cute and very soft,” said Elle, a young attendee, capturing the simple joy the animal interaction provided.
In addition to the zoo, the street fair featured local vendors offering crafts, food, and holiday gifts, while the Christmas market allowed shoppers to find unique seasonal items. Games and activities were set up throughout the venue, encouraging families to linger and engage with one another.
Closing Celebration at Bethany Children’s Hospital
The festivities wrapped up with a gathering outside Bethany Children’s Hospital, where participants shared final moments of the day, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting the hospital and its mission. The event not only celebrated a historic highway but also reinforced Bethany’s dedication to family values, faith, and local togetherness.
Overall, the Route 66 centennial celebration served as a reminder of the town’s rich heritage while providing a safe, enjoyable environment for families to connect, celebrate, and look forward to future community events.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
