I seriously thought the Toy Story series was a wrap!
When I learned Toy Story 5 was scheduled for release this summer, I was surprised. The story already felt complete to me, and I thought Woody, Buzz, and the gang had taken their final bow. But after hearing more about the new storyline, I've become genuinely excited to see what Pixar has in store!
In Toy Story 5, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the toys will face a challenge that's familiar to many modern families: competing with screens for children's attention. According to Pixar, the film explores what happens when toys find themselves up against tablets, smartphones, video games, and other electronics that occupy so much of children's free time today.
I love how incredibly relevant this theme is! Many of us moms are constantly trying to strike the right balance between technology and everything else we want our children to experience this summer: reading, outdoor play, creativity, family time, hobbies, and imaginative play. Screens aren't going anywhere, but neither is the desire to see our kids build forts, invent games, ride bikes, and create adventures of their own.
The Toy Story films have always managed to entertain children while giving parents something meaningful to think about. And of course, there’s a healthy dose of nostalgia involved in this summer’s release. Many moms in The Woodlands grew up with Woody and Buzz. Maybe you watched the original Toy Story when it debuted in 1995, and now we're introducing those same characters to our own children. Few movie franchises have successfully connected generations in quite the same way.
Where to Watch Toy Story 5
Toy Story 5 opens exclusively in theaters on June 19, 2026, and you can expect most local theaters to be showing it. If you're looking to make it a dinner-and-a-movie outing, I recommend Reel Luxury Cinemas in Market Street which offers comfortable seating, and elevated dining options from the Audrey.
(In case you can’t wait until Friday, many Woodlands-area theaters are offering early showings on Thursday, June 18. Just be aware that these preview screenings sometimes cost a little more than standard movie tickets.)
If your kids love movie displays and themed photo opportunities, you may want to stop by Cinemark The Woodlands, where I recently spotted this fun Toy Story 5 cardboard backdrop that's perfect for a family photo before the show.
Enhance the Toy Story 5 Experience
If your child is a Toy Story fan, why not turn your movie outing into a full Toy Story experience? I remember when the Live Action The Little Mermaid came to theaters, I purchased themed party goods and cupcakes and invited the girls’ cousin over, and it was a fun little “party” before heading to the theater.
Below, I've rounded up some fun Toy Story-themed merchandise, including books, toys, activity items, and T-shirts that can help build excitement before the movie or keep the fun going afterward.
Whether your child dreams of blasting off with Buzz Lightyear, rounding up cattle with Woody, or hanging out with Jessie and Bullseye, there are plenty of ways to bring a little more Toy Story magic into your summer.
Toy Story Parent's Night Out at ASI Gymnastics
If you want to lean heavily into hte theme, sign up your child ages 3-14 for a Toy Story-themed Parent's Night out at ASI Gymnastics! On Saturday, June 20 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm, your child can enjoy safe and supervised environment filled with engaging games, creative crafts, pizza, and exhilarating trampoline sessions. Pizza included.
All ASI Gymnastics locations are participating, and the one closest to The Woodlands is at 4000 FM 1488 in Conroe.
Click here to pre-register ($39) or you can also walk-in ($44).
A Few Questions to Discuss After the Movie
One thing I love about family movies is the conversations they spark afterward. Since Toy Story 5 centers around the challenge of screens and technology, here are a few fun questions you might ask your kids after the credits roll:
- Which Toy Story character is your favorite and why?
- If one of your toys could come to life, which would it be?
- What do you enjoy more: playing with toys or playing on a screen?
- What's something fun you can do this week that doesn't involve electronics?
- If you could create your own toy, what would it do?
Will You Be Seeing Toy Story 5?
Whether you're a longtime fan of the franchise or introducing Woody and Buzz to a new generation, Toy Story 5 looks like one of the biggest family movie releases of the summer.
I'm looking forward to seeing how Pixar tackles a topic that so many families are navigating today, and I'm excited to spend a little more time with some old friends.
This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, WoodlandsMommy may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our website!
