Rolla’s annual “Route 66” Summerfest kicks off in a mere three weeks, and with an average expected turnout this year of at least 5,000 people, the weekend will be a don’t-miss event.

New this year is the downhill soapbox derby, helicopter and  rides, the St. Louis Science Center traveling exhibits and the fire truck pull.

Event co-chair Dawn Smith said she has been with Summerfest since its inception, and looks forward to all the events, especially the cars and music.

“This is the 14th year, and it just keeps getting better and better,” Smith said.

The event commences at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 5, with the Miss Route 66 Pageant in the Rolla Middle School Auditorium.  The contestants, single girls between the ages of 15 and 18, will be judged in four categories:  Stage Appearance; Public Speaking; Interview and Group Talent.  Last year’s winner, Stephanie Malchert, will crown the new Miss Route 66 during the Cruisers’ parade Friday evening.

Friday’s festivities, beginning at 4 p.m., also will include a classic car display at the St. James Visitor’s Center before they cruise to Rolla where there will be a picnic sponsored by the AUSA, skateboard games, and a motorcycle charity poker run.  The evening will end with a free street dance concert beginning at 8 p.m. and featuring the local talent of oldies band, Beeker Street. 

The fun picks up again on Saturday morning with donuts and coffee in the food court, a craft festival, a classic car show, a motorcycle show, as well as several fun activities for kids and a few sporting events.

Teams can compete in the sand volleyball or the doubles tennis tournaments.  For the less competitive, Tour-de-Phelps is a 12-mile round trip leisurely bike ride from Rolla to St. James.

Saturday afternoon competitions include a downhill derby and kids tricycle and bicycle races, a wet T-shirt contest, a fire truck pull and a burnout contest.  Throughout the day, helicopter rides over Rolla will be available and food, craft, and business vendors will be set up downtown. 

The St. Louis Science Center also will bring traveling exhibits including interactive displays and seqway classes and rides.

Saturday evening will conclude with an 8 p.m. free street dance featuring the returning local talent of Elvis Lives — Rick Vickers and the TLC Band.

Rolla’s “Route 66” Summerfest is free and open to the public, but some events require pre-registration and/or entry fees. 

For more information and a full listing of events visit the Summerfest Web site at www.route66summerfest.com.