June 9: Cars (2006)

Milestone Years

• 20th Anniversary: June 9, 2026
• 25th Anniversary: June 9, 2031
• 30th Anniversary: June 9, 2036

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Director John Lasseter’s passion for classic cars and Americana led him to take a road trip along Route 66, where he met locals like Angel Delgadillo of Seligman, Arizona. These experiences inspired the creation of Radiator Springs and the film’s themes of nostalgia and community. The story also draws parallels to the 1991 film “Doc Hollywood,” where a hotshot professional finds meaning in a small town.

You Might Not Know

• Originally titled “The Yellow Car,” the film focused on an electric car facing prejudice, inspired by a Danish three-wheeled electric vehicle.
• Co-writer and co-director Joe Ranft tragically died in a car accident during production; the film is dedicated to his memory.
• Paul Newman’s role as Doc Hudson was his final voice acting performance in a theatrical film.
• Mater was inspired by a real-life tow truck found in Galena, Kansas, during the filmmakers’ Route 66 research trip.
• Lightning McQueen’s racing number, 95, is a nod to the release year of Pixar’s first feature film, “Toy Story.”

Food Ideas

• Route 66 Diner Burgers: Classic cheeseburgers with all the fixings.
• Cozy Cone Motel Churros: Cinnamon-sugar churros served in cone-shaped holders.
• Luigi’s Casa Della Tires Pizza: Personal pizzas with tire-shaped pepperoni slices.
• Fillmore’s Organic Smoothies: Colorful fruit smoothies named after characters.
• Mater’s Tow Cable Pretzels: Twisted pretzels resembling tow cables.

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a Cars-themed movie marathon featuring all three films and the “Planes” spin-offs.
• Organize a mini car show with toy cars or real vehicles, showcasing different models.
• Create a Route 66-inspired photo booth with props and backdrops from the film.
• Plan a road trip to visit real-life locations that inspired Radiator Springs.
• Set up a DIY pit stop game station with racing-themed activities for kids.

Filming Locations

While “Cars” is an animated film, its settings were heavily influenced by real locations along historic Route 66. The town of Radiator Springs was inspired by Seligman, Arizona, and other landmarks such as the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, and the U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, Texas, served as models for various buildings in the film.