It’s September 5 – or 9/5 – a date that’s become known as Lightning McQueen Day, when we celebrate the legendary Piston Cup champion from Disney and Pixar’s “Cars.” And what better day to swing by Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a visit with #95 at Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, the all-new high-octane show that debuted earlier this year.
Disney Parks Live Entertainment worked closely with partners at Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering to create the show, which tells a completely new story that puts you right in the middle of the world of “Cars.” It’s a thrilling adventure, with you in the role of rookie racer, as Lightning McQueen showcases some of what he’s learned over the years. Of course, as McQueen has discovered throughout his career, things don’t always go according to plan, and he has to think fast to get back on course. Friends like Mater, Cruz Ramirez and other pals from Radiator Springs chime in with their support, as Lightning gears up for the challenge.
Like other Pixar productions, Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy also includes a handful of Easter Eggs, rewarding sharp-eyed viewers and repeat visitors. See if you can spot the Pizza Planet truck, which, after appearing in Pixar’s first-ever feature film, “Toy Story” (released in 1995, inspiring Lightning McQueen’s number), has appeared in every Pixar feature since. Another blink-and-you’ll-miss-it reference is “A-113,” for the classroom at California Institute of the Arts where many Disney and Pixar animators studied their craft. There’s also a Hidden Mickey somewhere in the show, but we won’t “leak” that one. You’ll have to go and find it for yourself!
Race on over to Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy on Lightning McQueen Day – or any day! – for some high-octane fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
