Lightning McQueen races back onto the big screen September 4 as Disney and Pixar celebrate two decades of Cars with events around the world.
Disney and Pixar are taking fans back to Radiator Springs as the beloved animated classic Cars returns to theaters for a special 20th anniversary celebration.
Tickets are now on sale for the theatrical re-release, which begins September 4, 2026. The film will be presented on the big screen in its original format, giving audiences a chance to revisit Lightning McQueen's first adventure in theaters two decades after its original debut.
The timing of the re-release also connects with Lightning McQueen Day on September 5, or 9/5, a celebration inspired by the famous race car's number, 95.
The theatrical return is part of a yearlong celebration spanning automotive events, museums, motorsports, gaming and fan experiences around the world.
Beyond theaters, Disney and Pixar are marking the anniversary with events tied to cars and racing worldwide. Route 66's centennial will include special Cars screenings at the historic Tee-Pee Drive-In and Tulsa Circle Cinema, while the franchise heads to the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at Monza in September with a life-size Lightning McQueen, a Cars-wrapped Mercedes Safety Car and a new Formula 1 collection.
The celebration has already included appearances at the Daytona 500 and Goodwood Festival of Speed. At the same time, museums in the United States, England and Italy will feature Cars exhibits and life-size sculptures. The Porsche "Sally Special" continues its U.S. tour, and additional anniversary events extend to D23, Mundo Pixar, Make-A-Wish activations and several Disney games and interactive experiences.
Released in 2006, Cars follows Lightning McQueen, a talented but self-centered rookie race car determined to become a champion. Voiced by Owen Wilson, Lightning's journey takes an unexpected turn when he becomes stranded in Radiator Springs, a small town along historic Route 66.
There, he encounters a memorable group of residents who change his perspective on racing, friendship, and what it means to succeed. Among them are the legendary Doc Hudson, voiced by Paul Newman; tow truck Mater, voiced by Larry the Cable Guy; and Sally, voiced by Bonnie Hunt.
Directed by John Lasseter and produced by Darla K. Anderson, Cars features an original score and songs by Randy Newman. Lasseter, Anderson and Newman are all Academy Award winners.
Two decades later, the film remains a defining entry in Pixar's catalog, with Lightning McQueen, Mater and the residents of Radiator Springs continuing to resonate with generations of fans.
Cars returns to theaters September 4, giving longtime fans and a new generation the chance to experience Lightning McQueen's first trip to Radiator Springs on the big screen.
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