During the cold, blistery days of February, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a great place for eagle watching. But once the warm weather arrives, the bridge is full of bikers, joggers and walkers enjoying the beautiful view. Come celebrate the glory days of the Mother Road at the 2011 Route 66 Festival at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Visitors will be entertained with live music, entertainment, Route 66-themed products, refreshments, activities and a chance to learn about the rich history of this iconic road.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Route 66 Classic Car Cruise. On Saturday, June 4 the bridge will be lined from end-to-end with vintage cars. You can admire these beauties or join in on the fun by registering your classic vehicle. The cost is $20 before June 3. Stay after the cruise and enjoy live music until 6 p.m. by Nancy Kranzberg & The Second Half, Miss Jubilee & The Humdingers and The Jeremiah Johnson Band with The Sliders.

Come back on Sunday, June 5 to go on a cruise of a different kind. Celebrate the 82^nd birthday of the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and National Trails Day by pumping up your bike tires and going on a scenic 21, 42 or 56-mile bicycle ride in Madison County, Illinois. According the website, there are no big hills, just flat to rolling terrain. After the ride, return to the bridge for the big Birthday Bash. You’ll be treated to brews, blues, cake and ice cream. The band Lucky Old Sons will be performing from noon to 3 p.m.

For many decades the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge served as a key link in the Route 66 Highway. Today, the bridge is a significant connection in the bi-state trail system. The not-for-profit organization Trailnet and the city of Madison, Illinois renovated the Bridge as a bicycle/pedestrian thoroughfare. In 2006, the Bridge was added to the National Register of Historical Places. This registry designates significant structures along the historic route from Chicago to Los Angeles.

The 2011 Route 66 Festival at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is taking place from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 4 and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 5. There will be activities at both the Missouri and Illinois entrances of the bridge, with the main stage at the Missouri entrance off of Riverview Drive. The ride fees for the Birthday Bash are $8 for Trailnet members, $13 for non-member and $3 for children under 13. For more information on this family-friendly event, visit the Confluence Greenway’s website or contact them at (314) 436-1324.

By Andrea Wilson, Events Blogger for SmartParenting