Building New Memories with Pixar Favorites
The countdown to Toy Story 5 is officially on, and LEGO is making sure fans have plenty to keep their hands busy while we wait. A brand new wave of sets has been revealed, and it’s clear that Imagineering isn’t the only group finding ways to bring Pixar magic into our homes. This latest collection, scheduled to launch on May 1, 2026, features three distinct builds that cater to everyone from the hardcore adult collector to the young fan who just wants to play.
The Collector’s Piece: Slinky Dog Bookends (43301)
For those of us who like our Disney decor to have a bit of a sophisticated edge, the Slinky Dog bookends are the clear standout. This set is specifically designed for the 18+ crowd, and it doesn’t just sit on a shelf, it actually works. The 714-piece build splits Slinky in half to serve as functional bookends. What makes this set truly special for Pixar historians is the inclusion of two brick-built books representing Tiny Toy and Knick Knack. These are the original shorts that helped pave the way for Toy Story back in the day. You’ll also get a Woody minifigure to round out the display, and Slinky himself is fully poseable with movable ears, tail, and paws.
Interactivity with the Alien Rocket Ride (43307)
If you’ve ever spent too much time (and money) at the crane games in a pizza arcade, this next set is for you. The Alien Rocket Ride is a 544-piece build aimed at builders ages 9 and up. It captures that classic Pizza Planet aesthetic perfectly. The best part? It’s not just a static model. It features a functioning crank mechanism that brings the rocket to life, along with a coin dispenser detail that adds to the nostalgia. It comes with a poseable Alien figure that can either ride inside the rocket or stand guard on your desk.
The Villain We Love to Hate: Lotso Figure (43306)
Rounding out the new trio is everyone’s favorite strawberry-scented antagonist, Lotso. This buildable figure consists of 570 pieces and offers a surprising amount of articulation. You can pose his face, arms, hands, and legs to recreate scenes from Toy Story 3. He even comes with his signature walking stick. While we can’t confirm if the LEGO bricks actually smell like strawberries, the detail on his face capture’s that dual nature of being both adorable and slightly menacing.
Why This Matters for Your Next Trip
While these sets are perfect for home display, they also serve as a great reminder of the Toy Story presence at the parks. If you’re heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios soon, you’ll find the spirit of these sets alive and well in Toy Story Land. Seeing Slinky Dog Dash in person after building the bookends at home adds a whole new layer of appreciation for the design work that goes into these characters. Plus, with Toy Story 5 on the horizon, we expect even more tie-ins to pop up across the resort.
Planning Pro-Tips for Toy Story Fans
- Pre-order Early: Select sets are already seeing pre-order activity. If you want these on your doorstep by May 1, don’t wait.
- Park Inspiration: If you’re visiting Walt Disney World, take a close look at the toy-inspired architecture in Hollywood Studios. You’ll see the same logic in the park’s design that LEGO uses for these builds.
- Lightning Lane Strategy: Remember that Slinky Dog Dash remains one of the most popular uses for a Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Book it early if you want to see the real-life version of your new bookends!
Whether you’re a lifelong collector or looking for a gift for a young explorer, these May 2026 releases offer a magical way to bring the Toy Story universe to life. It’s a great time to be a Pixar fan.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.
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