Disney Magic: A Journey Through ‘A Great Big Beautiful Car Show’ at D23 2024

Let’s look back at one of the most unforgettable experiences from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2024— “A Great Big Beautiful Car Show,” the Walt Disney Archives‘ largest exhibition to date. Spanning an incredible 24,000 square feet and showcasing over 30 iconic vehicles, this event was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The Archives pulled out all the stops, featuring over 25 vehicles from Disney films, theme parks, and beyond. From Cruella’s striking 1974 Panther De Ville from the 2021 film “Cruella” to Sharpay’s glamorous pink convertible from “High School Musical 3: Senior Year,” this exhibition had something for every Disney fan. And for those who love Disneyland history, there was even a tram tractor and car that transported guests from the parking lot to the front gate of Disneyland from 1968 to 1997.

Kingswell Service Station is an area inspired by classic Americana and the original Disney Studio. Highlights included the Flubber-powered Model T from “The Absent-Minded Professor” and Sharpay’s iconic Honda S2000 Convertible. Fans of the Muppets and Disney’s Hollywood Studios were also treated to some rare and nostalgic vehicles. Including the Electric Mayhem van from 2023s Muppets Mayhem

One of the centerpieces and a nostalgic tribute to the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this year. An Original Ford Mustang from the Magic Skyway attraction is proudly displayed on a giant turntable.  This was one of the ride vehicles for Ford’s Magic Skyway, a remarkable vehicle for us.   Other beloved vehicles included Herbie the Love Bug, the DHARMA Van from “Lost,” and the 1967 Ferrari 330 P4 from “Ford v Ferrari.”

Disneyland’s history includes vehicles that once roamed the park, like Mickey’s Bantam Roadster and a classic Main Street, U.S.A., Runabout Vehicle used by Walt Disney himself…. This area truly celebrated Disney’s past, bringing back fond memories for many attendees.

The grand finale was the “Worlds Beyond” area, where guests were transported to lands like Jakku from “Star Wars” and the eerie LV-223 from “Prometheus.” The 2054 Lexus Roadster from “Minority Report” and the massive Weyland Transport Rover were among the standout attractions in this immersive section.

Although D23 2024 has ended, the “A Great Big Beautiful Car Show” will live on. For those who attended, it was an unforgettable journey through Disney’s automotive history, and for those who missed it, we hope this walkthrough gives you a taste of what made this exhibition so special.

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