Disney and Pixar’s Cars 20th anniversary theatrical return will begin September 4, 2026, bringing Lightning McQueen back to cinemas. The original animated film debuted in 2006 and quickly became one of Pixar’s most recognizable franchises worldwide.
Directed by John Lasseter, ‘Cars’ follows Lightning McQueen, a talented rookie racer who unexpectedly becomes stranded in Radiator Springs. His unplanned stop introduces him to Mater, Sally, Doc Hudson, and other residents who ultimately change his perspective on life.
The movie originally arrived in theaters on June 9, 2006, making this year’s celebration exactly two decades after its release. Fans can now experience the adventure on the big screen again when the limited theatrical rerelease begins September 4.
The return also arrives just before Lightning McQueen Day on September 5, celebrating the character’s famous racing number, 95. Pixar has expanded the anniversary celebration beyond cinemas through automotive events, museum exhibitions, merchandise, gaming promotions, and motorsports partnerships.
The franchise has already appeared through anniversary activations connected with NASCAR, the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and automotive museums. A life-size Lightning McQueen and a Cars-themed Mercedes safety car will also appear during the Formula 1 event at Monza.
Meanwhile, Disney and Pixar have continued celebrating the franchise’s cultural impact through special experiences and collaborations throughout 2026. The original movie featured voices including Owen Wilson as Lightning McQueen, Bonnie Hunt as Sally, Larry the Cable Guy as Mater.
Paul Newman also voiced Doc Hudson, making his performance one of the film’s most memorable elements for longtime Pixar audiences. Two decades later, the Cars 20th anniversary theatrical return offers longtime fans another opportunity to revisit Radiator Springs.
Younger audiences will also get an opportunity to experience the beloved animated adventure inside cinemas for the first time. Tickets for the September 4 screenings are already on sale through participating cinema chains, including AMC and Cinemark.
With Lightning McQueen returning to the big screen, Pixar’s beloved racing franchise is preparing for another nostalgic lap around Radiator Springs.
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