Top Events and Festivals in Kingman Arizona on Historic Route 66

Exploring the Best Events in Kingman, Arizona

Known as the "Heart of Historic Route 66," the city of Kingman is home to a vibrant community that loves celebrating its history and culture. Throughout the year, visitors can experience a diverse array of events highlighting local heritage, music, arts, and so much more. Keep reading to discover some of the top events happening in Kingman, AZ that you won't want to miss!

Route 66 Days

One of the most popular events is Route 66 Days, held annually in September. This massive multi-day festival draws people from all over to celebrate the glory days of the "Mother Road." The event features live music from Route 66 era bands, a huge car show displaying beautiful classic cars, vendors selling memorabilia and artwork, delicious food, and more. You can even dress up in 1950s-style clothing and dance along to retro tunes during the sock hop.

In addition to the main festivities, there are other activities like guided walking tours along Route 66, a pin-up girl competition, poker runs for motorcyclists, and a "Miss Route 66" pageant. Route 66 Days is the perfect opportunity to revel in vintage Americana culture and the legacy of the iconic highway.

Christmas Light Parade

Get into the holiday spirit at the annual Christmas Light Parade down Beale Street in the historic downtown area. Typically held the first weekend of December, this nighttime parade features over 100 decorated floats from local businesses, clubs, churches, and other organizations. Parents and children line the streets to watch festive light displays and characters like Santa Claus make their way through town.

After the parade, stick around for photos with Santa, hot cocoa, cookie decorating, live entertainment, and other family-friendly activities. The Christmas Light Parade kicks off the season with joyful community camaraderie and cheer.

Andy Devine Days

Pay tribute to Kingman's most famous resident at Andy Devine Days every September. Andy Devine was an actor born in Kingman who appeared in over 400 films and TV shows, winning worldwide recognition. The weekend-long event held in Metcalfe Park includes carnival rides and games, live concerts, a car and motorcycle show, food vendors, craft booths, and fireworks.

During Andy Devine Days, the city also hosts a 10K run, 3K walk, and 1-mile kids' run named after the actor. On Saturday night, there is a PRCA professional rodeo bearing Andy Devine's name, featuring exciting events like bull riding, calf roping, and barrel racing. It's a great time to appreciate Devine's legacy as Kingman's hometown hero.

Kingman Street Drags

If you love the adrenaline rush of racing, the Kingman Street Drags are for you. Taking place on Airport Road near the Kingman Airport, this 1/8 mile drag racing event occurs every few weeks between April and October. Racers from Kingman and surrounding areas compete in categories like sportsman, super pro, motorcycles, and junior dragsters.

Spectators can watch the action up close from the safe zone near the finish line. You'll see and hear souped-up hot rods, muscle cars, imports, and motorcycles tearing down the strip at breakneck speeds. The Street Drags offer family fun for both casual fans and diehard racing enthusiasts.

Concerts in the Park

For laid-back evenings enjoying great music outdoors, check out the free Concerts in the Park series. These concerts take place every Friday night from April through August at Metcalfe Park downtown. A diverse lineup of local and regional bands plays rock, country, blues, jazz, and swing music on the gazebo stage.

Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and your own picnic dinner or snacks and drinks. There's also food available for purchase from vendors at the park. Concerts in the Park provide a relaxing atmosphere to unwind while listening to fantastic live talent.

Kingman Farmers Market

For fresh regional produce and artisanal goods, visit the Kingman Farmers Market every Saturday morning year-round. Held in the parking lot of Metcalfe Park, the market features vendors selling fruits, vegetables, baked goods, jams, honey, arts and crafts, and more. You can get everything from locally roasted coffee to beautiful handmade jewelry.

The Farmers Market is a great place to support local businesses and farmers. Kids will love activities like face painting and balloon animals. It's also a perfect opportunity to grab a healthy snack and enjoy the open-air market ambiance. Don't miss this weekly Kingman tradition!

An All-Year Destination

From major annual festivals to regular community events, there's always something exciting happening in Kingman. The city offers small-town charm combined with modern amenities, making it an ideal home base for exploring northern Arizona. Take a day trip along Route 66, experience underground cave tours, or enjoy outdoor recreation at nearby Hualapai Mountain Park.

Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or music lover, Kingman has an event for you. Mark your calendar and make plans to visit this vibrant Route 66 community. Use hashtags like #route66, #arizona, #roadtrip, #kingman, and #kingmanaz to share your own experiences!

FAQs

What are the most popular annual events in Kingman?

Some of the most popular annual events in Kingman are Route 66 Days in September, Andy Devine Days in September, the Christmas Light Parade in December, and the Route 66 Car Show in June.

Where is Route 66 Days held?

Route 66 Days takes place at various locations around downtown Kingman, centered along the historic Route 66.

What type of events happen at Andy Devine Days?

Andy Devine Days features carnival rides, live music, a car and motorcycle show, food vendors, craft booths, fireworks, a PRCA rodeo, and other entertainment.

What can you do at the weekly Farmers Market?

The Kingman Farmers Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, arts and crafts, food vendors, kids activities, and more every Saturday morning.

Are there free music events in Kingman?

Yes, Concerts in the Park offers free live music every Friday night from April to August in outdoor Metcalfe Park downtown.