Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend Returns to Walt Disney World Resort June 2-3

“Red car! Blue car! BIG TRUCK!”

I have to say that the vocabulary of my toddler, who is learning to talk right now, has been greatly shaped by the films (and toys and books and pajamas) of “Cars” and “Cars 2.” So, there’s a great chance we’ll be heading to Downtown Disney here at Walt Disney World Resort June 2-3 to attend Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend.

This event, now in its second year, celebrates everything “Cars.” There will be meet and greets with Lightning McQueen, Mater (my son’s favorite!), and Finn McMissile, as well as a movie marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24 with showings of “Cars” and “Cars 2.”

New elements that will debut this year include an appearance by automotive designer Chip Foose, who contributed to the design of Ramone in the “Cars” film and in the upcoming Cars wing of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort; a LEGO interactive zone; “Cars”-themed topiaries; a DJ and food trucks. Jay Ward, Cars guardian, will also make an appearance.

Returning fun will include a chance for guests to test-drive Ridemakerz model cars and browse a car show presented by Hess Express that will feature more than 100 classic, muscle and exotic cars. Families can even vote for their favorite car this year. GM will also have their latest and greatest models on display.

Here’s the schedule of events for June 2-3.

Saturday, June 2

• Cars 2 character Meet & Greets: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Car Show presented by Hess Express: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• High-Performance Karting by Richard Petty Driving Experience: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Chip Foose Chat at Main Stage: 2 p.m.
• Chip Foose merchandise signing at D Street (see below for details): 3-4:30 p.m.
• Cars Movie Marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24: Cars – 12:50 p.m., 6:00 p.m.; Cars 2 – 10:15 a.m., 3:20 p.m., 8:25 p.m.

Sunday, June 3

• Cars 2 character Meet & Greets: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Car Show presented by Hess Express: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• High-Performance Karting by Richard Petty Driving Experience: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Chip Foose Chat at Main Stage: 2 p.m.
• Chip Foose merchandise signing at D Street (see below for details): 3-4:30 p.m.
• Car Show Award Ceremony: 7 p.m.
• Cars Movie Marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24: Cars – 12:50 p.m., 6:00 p.m.; Cars 2 – 10:15 pm, 3:20 p.m., 8:25 p.m.

Chip Foose will sign his “Cars”-inspired images available for purchase at D Street, including Doc Hudson, Lightning McQueen and Mater. Guests will receive a wristband upon purchasing artwork which will allow you to meet Chip Foose and have your artwork signed. Limit TWO (2) items signed per guest. We ask that you bring no personal items to be signed. Merchandise for signing must be purchased on the event day at the event location. Valid Walt Disney World Resort receipt may be required. Event and information are subject to change without notice including but not limited to dates, times, locations, artwork, release dates and retail prices. Appearances based on time and availability and are not guaranteed.

Queue for wrist-banded guests will start at 2:30 p.m. in front of D Street at Downtown Disney West Side.