“Cars” races back into theaters after 20 years of inspiring Disney attractions
Ka-chow! Pixar is celebrating the 20th anniversary of “Cars” by bringing Lightning McQueen back to the big screen this September. It’s a chance to revisit Radiator Springs and the story that inspired one of Disney’s most beloved theme park lands.
Pixar shared the announcement on social media June 9, writing, “20 years ago today, a stop in Radiator Springs showed us that the journey matters as much as the finish line.”
The studio added that “Cars races back into theaters September,” using the hashtag #Cars20.
From Radiator Springs to Cars Land
While “Cars” premiered in 2006, its influence stretches far beyond the original film. The movie inspired Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, widely considered one of Disney’s most immersive themed lands.
Anchored by ‘Radiator Springs Racers,’ the land recreates iconic locations from the film, including Flo’s V8 Cafe, Luigi’s Casa Della Tires and Cozy Cone Motel. More than a decade after opening, Radiator Springs Racers remains one of Disney’s most popular attractions.
Courtesy of Disney
The road ahead for the franchise
The world of “Cars” continues to expand throughout Disney Experiences. At Magic Kingdom, Disney has announced plans for Piston Peak National Park, a new frontier-inspired area that will include attractions themed to the world of Pixar’s “Cars.”
Fans can also extend their stay in Radiator Springs-inspired surroundings at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, where the Cars Family Suites immerse guests in oversized character details featuring Lightning McQueen, Mater and friends.
Photo by Dani Meyering
Twenty years after audiences first met the rookie race car who learned that life is about more than crossing the finish line first, Lightning McQueen is still finding new roads to travel.
Additional details, including exact dates and participating theaters for the September rerelease, have not yet been announced.
Watch “Cars” characters come to life with our video below of the “Cars” section and family suite at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
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I hope my local Cinemark movie theater plays this Cars re-release on September 11th. 🙏
Fingers crossed!