Disney Announces Interactive Lightning McQueen Popcorn Bucket for Cars 20th Anniversary
Disney has revealed a new Lightning McQueen Popcorn Bucket celebrating the 20th anniversary of Pixar’s Cars. Learn when and where fans can find it.
Disney is celebrating 20 years of Pixar’s Cars with a brand-new collectible that is sure to have fans saying “Ka-Chow!” The all-new Cars 20th Anniversary Lightning McQueen Popcorn Bucket will arrive at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort beginning June 9, 2026, Disney Eats announced on social media this week. The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of Pixar’s original Cars film, which debuted in theaters on June 9, 2006.
Unlike many recent Disney popcorn buckets that focus primarily on display value, this Lightning McQueen bucket brings some extra horsepower. The collectible features a detailed sculpt of Lightning McQueen complete with his iconic No. 95 racing number, Rust-eze sponsorship, signature smile, and bright red paint scheme. Disney also revealed that the bucket includes built-in lights and a pull-back-and-go function, allowing guests to roll Lightning McQueen across a flat surface after purchase. For many Disney collectors, those interactive elements could make this one of the most popular popcorn bucket releases of the summer.
Celebrating 20 Years of Cars
The timing is no coincidence. Disney and Pixar have spent much of 2026 celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Cars franchise through special merchandise releases, collectibles, and anniversary offerings. Since its debut in 2006, Cars has become one of Pixar’s most successful brands, inspiring two sequels, multiple Disney Parks attractions, television specials, and a massive line of consumer products. Lightning McQueen remains one of Pixar’s most recognizable characters, making him a fitting choice for a major anniversary collectible.
Pricing and Locations Still to Be Announced
While Disney has confirmed the June 9 release date, pricing and exact availability locations have not yet been revealed. Based on recent premium popcorn bucket releases, guests should expect a higher price point than traditional novelty buckets. Interactive collectibles featuring lights, sounds, or moving components typically command premium pricing across Disney Parks.
Disney has also not specified which popcorn carts or dining locations will carry the bucket. Historically, highly anticipated popcorn buckets are distributed across multiple locations at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort to help manage demand. Additional details, including pricing, purchase limits, and specific locations, are expected closer to the release date.
Lightning McQueen Popcorn Bucket: A Potential Summer Sellout
Disney popcorn buckets continue to be among the most sought-after souvenirs in the parks, with many limited-edition releases generating long lines on launch day. Adding interactive features to an already popular character could make this one of the hottest merchandise items of the summer. Whether you’re a longtime Cars fan, a Disney popcorn bucket collector, or simply looking for a unique souvenir, Lightning McQueen may be racing into many guests’ collections beginning June 9. If demand matches the excitement already building online, Disney fans may want to act quickly before this racer speeds off the shelves.
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