January 22-28, 2025 🍇📅

Vol. 1, Issue 8: The Road to History: Exploring Route 66 in Rancho Cucamonga

Route 66: Rancho Cucamonga’s Historic Connection to the Mother Road

Few roads in American history capture the imagination like Route 66, and Rancho Cucamonga proudly holds its place along this iconic highway. Established in 1926, Route 66—often called "The Mother Road"—stretched from Chicago to Santa Monica, carving a path through the heart of the nation. Rancho Cucamonga’s stretch of the highway quickly became a bustling stop, offering travelers a glimpse of California’s charm and hospitality.

During its heyday, Route 66 was lined with diners, motels, and service stations that catered to road-weary adventurers. Rancho Cucamonga’s historic Sycamore Inn, dating back to the 1800s, became a favored spot for hearty meals and rest. Vintage gas stations and roadside stands dotted the landscape, creating a vibrant, community-centered economy. As car culture boomed, Route 66 symbolized freedom and opportunity, drawing people westward with promises of golden California dreams.

Though Interstate 10 and other modern highways eventually overshadowed it, Route 66’s legacy endures. Rancho Cucamonga has embraced its history with preserved landmarks, like the Route 66 Trailhead, vintage signs, and themed events. Today, walking or driving along this stretch of Route 66 feels like stepping back in time—a tribute to the road that helped shape the city and connect it to the greater American story.

Heard it through the grapevine!

January 22–28, 2025 Events

Jan 22

📖 Family Storytime | 🕒 11:30 am–12:00 pm | 📍 Archibald Library, 7368 Archibald Avenue

Enjoy walk-in storytime for children of all ages up to 12. Tickets are distributed 30 minutes prior; space is limited.

🔍 Discovery Club | 🕒 4:00 pm–4:30 pm | 📍 Archibald Library, 7368 Archibald Avenue

Children ages 6 to 12 can engage in interactive learning experiences. Caregivers must remain in the children's area during the program. Tickets are distributed 30 minutes prior; space is limited.

🔥 Teen Advisory Group Presents: Campfire Open Mic | 🕒 6:00 pm–7:30 pm | 📍 Paul A. Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive

Teens in grades 7–12 are invited to showcase their talents or enjoy performances by peers. Snacks provided. No pre-registration required.

🎶 Grammy’s/Music Trivia Night | 🕒 7:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Test your knowledge of music and Grammy history for a fun night of trivia.

🎤 Comedy Open Mic | 🕒 7:00 pm (Sign-ups at 6:30 pm) | 📍 The Stackz Co, 9223 Archibald Ave H, Rancho Cucamonga

Show off your comedic chops or enjoy an evening of laughs. Performers require a one-item minimum.

Jan 23

🎉 Hooray for Pre-K | 🕒 10:30 am–11:00 am | 📍 Paul A. Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive

Preschoolers ages 4 to 5 and their caregivers can enjoy walk-in storytime. Tickets are distributed 30 minutes prior; space is limited.

Jan 24

🎶 Live Music: Chris Baylon | 🕒 7:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Enjoy a night of live music with Chris Baylon at the Haven City Market.

Jan 25

🛍️ Little Joys Artisan Market | 🕒 11:00 am–4:00 pm | 📍 Deer Canyon Elementary, Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Explore unique handcrafted goods and support local artisans at this family-friendly market.

🎶 Live Music: The Motherscratchers | 🕒 7:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Catch the high-energy performance of The Motherscratchers and soak in the vibes.

Jan 26

🛍️ Vintage X Market | 🕒 12:00–8:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Shop unique finds and vintage treasures at this special market event.

Multi-Day Event

🎭 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time | 📅 January 18 – February 2, 2025 | 📍 Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Experience the Tony Award-winning play about fifteen-year-old Christopher, who embarks on a thrilling journey to solve a neighborhood mystery. 

Business Spotlights

🧋 Bubblicity Boba: Bubblicity Boba is Rancho Cucamonga’s go-to spot for refreshing and creative bubble tea drinks. With a variety of flavors, customizable options, and fun toppings, this cozy café serves the perfect pick-me-up for boba enthusiasts. 

🍝 Biest Italian Kitchen: Biest Italian Kitchen brings authentic Italian flavors to Rancho Cucamonga, offering a menu packed with hearty pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable desserts. This family-owned eatery prides itself on using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Biest Italian Kitchen guarantees a slice of Italy in every bite.

📚 Barnes & Noble Rancho Cucamonga: Barnes & Noble is a haven for book lovers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestsellers, a cozy spot to read, or a community event like book clubs or storytime, Barnes & Noble Rancho Cucamonga is a welcoming space to ignite your love for reading.

Feel free to check us out on Instagram too!