The City of Catoosa, Oklahoma, will host the grand opening of the new Blue Whale Visitor Center and the inaugural Blue Whale Run on May 30 at the Blue Whale of Catoosa.
The revamped Blue Whale site still is under construction, including this view of the new visitor center and the unchanged Blue Whale itself.
The day will begin with a one-mile fun run at 8 a.m. and a certified 5K at 8:30 a.m.
Grand opening festivities will begin at noon with a vendor market featuring craft vendors and food trucks.
Remarks and a ribbon cutting are scheduled for 2 p.m.
Live music will follow from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., with a fireworks finale at 8:30 p.m.
Taking place during Route 66’s centennial, the Blue Whale Run gives participants the chance to run through history on one of the oldest stretches of original Route 66.
The run will begin and end at the Blue Whale of Catoosa, one of the country’s most iconic roadside landmarks.
All 5K participants will receive a finisher medal.
A virtual option is also available for participants who cannot attend in person.
Proceeds from the Blue Whale Run will benefit Blue Whale Park.
The grand opening marks a milestone for one of Oklahoma’s most recognizable Route 66 landmarks. The new visitor center is designed to honor the history of the Blue Whale while improving the visitor experience for travelers and the community for generations to come.
“The new visitor center adds to the experience of visiting the Blue Whale while respecting the history that made it so special in the first place,” said City Manager Josh Brown. “It is an investment in both preservation and community pride.”
The 4,000-square-foot facility includes an expanded gift shop, historical art and photos, updated traveler amenities, a concession area, and a meeting hall and event space.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is at 2600 N. Highway 66 Expressway, Catoosa, OK 74015
For more information and race registration, visit https://bluewhalerun.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=17062.
More information about the Visitor Center Grand Opening can be found on the City’s Facebook page.
(Images courtesy of Garret Starr of Crossroads Communications)