Ka-Chow! One of Disney’s most anticipated popcorn buckets of the year has finally crossed the finish line.
After generating excitement across social media following its announcement last week, the new Lightning McQueen Popcorn Bucket celebrating the 20th anniversary of Pixar’s Cars has officially debuted at Disney. The collectible bucket arrived on June 9 and is expected to be one of the hottest merchandise releases of the summer.
Designed to look like everyone’s favorite rookie-turned-racing legend, the new bucket recreates Lightning McQueen in impressive detail.
The collectible features Lightning’s signature red paint scheme, racing decals, expressive eyes, and number 95 markings that fans of the Cars franchise instantly recognize. Disney has also included lighting effects, helping bring the beloved character to life even after the popcorn is gone. The top of the vehicle opens to hold popcorn, making it both a souvenir and a functional snack container.
For Pixar fans, it serves as a fitting tribute to the film that first sped into theaters in 2006 and launched one of Disney and Pixar’s most successful franchises.
The Lightning McQueen popcorn bucket is currently available at several popcorn snack kiosks around the park, including Hollywood Blvd, Ice Cold Hydraulics, and by ABC Commissary. Our big tip is to make sure you head to one of the popcorn kiosks towards the back of the cart for the shortest lines.
Disney has not indicated how long the bucket will remain available, and like most specialty popcorn buckets, availability is expected to be limited while supplies last.
Guests should also be aware that purchase limits may apply depending on location and inventory levels.
The Lightning McQueen popcorn bucket is available for $30.
As with other Disney popcorn bucket releases, the purchase includes popcorn at the time of purchase.
Celebrating 20 Years of Cars
The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of Pixar’s Cars, which premiered on June 9, 2006. The film introduced audiences to Lightning McQueen, Mater, Sally, Doc Hudson, and the residents of Radiator Springs, eventually leading to multiple sequels, Disney Parks attractions, merchandise collections, and an entire themed land at Disney California Adventure.
Even two decades later, Lightning McQueen remains one of Pixar’s most recognizable characters, making this bucket an easy must-have for longtime fans.
If recent Disney popcorn bucket releases are any indication, this one may not stick around for long.
Collectors, Cars fans, and Disney merchandise enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting its release since Disney first teased the design. The combination of a fan-favorite character, lighting effects, and the milestone anniversary celebration could make this one of the most sought-after popcorn buckets of 2026.
For more Disney merchandise news, popcorn bucket releases, Walt Disney World updates, Disneyland coverage, and theme park news, keep checking Theme Park Scope.
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