Back to the Future Turns 40: Your Ultimate Guide to Anniversary Celebrations!

Get ready to set your time circuits to 2025 because it's a monumental year for Back to the Future! The iconic film is celebrating its 40th anniversary with epic re-releases, must-have merch, and global fan events you won't want to miss.

TL;DR

• Theatrical Re-Release: Catch the original Back to the Future in theaters nationwide, including IMAX and 4DX, starting October 31, 2025.
• Epic Merch & Treats: Score a light-up DeLorean popcorn bucket, exclusive froyo flavors from Yogurtland, new 4K UHD sets, and unique anime art at Tokyo Comic Con.
• Global Fan Events: Join celebrations in Las Vegas, an early 4DX screening in Los Angeles, and a massive presence at Tokyo Comic Con with cast appearances.

Great Scott! Celebrating Four Decades of Time-Traveling Fun

Can you believe it's been 40 years since Marty McFly first zipped through time in that iconic DeLorean? That's right, Back To The Future, the movie that captured our imaginations and made us all wish for a hoverboard, is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2025. Originally hitting theaters on July 3, 1985, this sci-fi comedy masterpiece has remained a timeless classic, inspiring generations of fans. And to mark this incredible milestone, studios, brands, and fans worldwide are pulling out all the stops!

From getting another chance to see it on the big screen with mind-blowing 4DX effects to collecting some seriously cool, limited-edition gear and even enjoying themed frozen yogurt, there's a little something for every fan. Let's dive into all the awesome ways you can join the celebration and travel back to 1985 (or forward to 2015!) with Marty and Doc.

Catching Back to the Future on the Big Screen for Its Anniversary

If you, like many of us, missed out on seeing Back to the Future in theaters during its original run (or even its 25th-anniversary re-release in 2010), this is your moment! The film is making a grand return to cinemas nationwide. You can experience the magic, the laughs, and the unforgettable soundtrack on the largest screen possible, complete with booming sound.

Starting October 31, 2025, Back to the Future will be re-released across the country, including special screenings in IMAX and 4DX. Imagine feeling the rumble of the DeLorean as it hits 88 mph, or experiencing the rush of wind as Marty skateboards through Hill Valley! These immersive experiences are a fantastic way to revisit a beloved classic or introduce it to a new generation of aspiring time travelers.

But wait, there's more for our West Coast fans! If you're in the Los Angeles area, ScreenRant is hosting an exclusive early 4DX screening on Monday, October 27, 2025. Not only will you get to see the film a few days early, but you'll also be treated to trivia hosted by Michael Klastorin, author of Back to the Future: The Ultimate Visual History, and a replica DeLorean Time Machine will be parked outside for epic photo ops. Talk about a "Great Scott!" moment!

Your DeLorean-Shaped Popcorn Bucket is Ready for Takeoff!

What's a movie re-release without some epic concession stand swag? For the 40th anniversary, AMC Theatres is rolling out what might be the coolest movie collectible ever: a popcorn bucket designed like Doc Brown's time machine DeLorean! This isn't just any bucket, folks. It features working gull-wing doors that open to reveal pull-out drawers for your popcorn. Plus, the front and back of the car light up, and the wheels fold down into flight configuration, just like in the movie!

You can snag this incredible piece of memorabilia at AMC Theatres starting October 26, 2025, while supplies last. If you prefer to enjoy your trilogy at home, online movie retailer Fandango at Home is offering a "McFly Movie Popcorn Bundle" for $45, which includes all three films digitally and the light-up DeLorean popcorn bucket, with shipping included. They also have a themed cup with Doc Brown's view from inside the time machine as it's in motion!

And for those who love to own physical media, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has re-released the entire trilogy in stunning 4K disc and Steelbook home video sets this month (October 2025), packed with new bonus materials. It's the perfect way to upgrade your collection and relive the adventure in pristine quality.

Japan Takes Back to the Future to Another Dimension

The love for Back to the Future isn't just contained to the US; it's a global phenomenon! Japan, known for its incredible anime and manga culture, is celebrating the 40th anniversary in a uniquely artistic way. A team of ten all-star anime and manga artists, including illustrators from beloved franchises like Pokémon and Fate/Grand Order, have created their own stunning interpretations of the Hollywood classic.

These exclusive illustrations, featuring everything from "chibi Marty" to "handsome Biff," were first revealed on October 21, 2025 (matching the date Marty travels to the future in Back to the Future Part II). They will be a major highlight at the special 40th-anniversary booth at Tokyo Comic Con 2025, running from December 5 to 7 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba. Imagine seeing Marty and Doc through the distinctive styles of artists like Kazushi Hagiwara (Bastard!!), Naoki Saito (Pokémon card illustrator), and Lack (Fate/Grand Order character designer)!

Tokyo Comic Con: A Time-Traveling Fan Extravaganza with Star Power

Tokyo Comic Con 2025 is shaping up to be a true highlight for Back to the Future fans. Besides the breathtaking artwork, the convention will host a special photo spot where visitors can snap commemorative pictures with a replica of the legendary DeLorean time machine. To access this photo op, you'll need to spend over 8,800 yen (about $60 USD) at the exclusive merchandise booth, where you can also grab limited-edition items featuring the new manga-style artwork.

But the biggest news from Tokyo Comic Con might be the stellar lineup of cast members scheduled to appear! Christopher Lloyd (Doc Brown), Lea Thompson (Lorraine Baines McFly), Tom Wilson (Biff Tannen), and Claudia Wells (Jennifer Parker) are all set to attend for autograph and photo sessions with fans. And marking the exact day the original film premiered in Japan, a special 40th-anniversary ceremony will be held on the main stage on December 7, 2025.

For those looking for an extra special piece of memorabilia, limited-edition autographed portraits signed by Michael J. Fox (Marty McFly) will be available for pre-purchase, with some even co-signed by Mary Steenburgen (Clara Clayton). This is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the stars who brought this incredible story to life!

Fuel Your Fandom with Frozen Yogurt and Sweet Deals

Who said celebrating an anniversary couldn't be delicious? Yogurtland is teaming up with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment for a special collaboration that'll tantalize your taste buds. From October 20 through November 30, 2025, you can indulge in the limited-time "Great Scott! Caramel Apple Pie" frozen yogurt flavor, topped with "Doc's Churro Bites." For an extra treat, combine it with Yogurtland's classic vanilla to create the "Apple Pie à la Mode Swirl."

The froyo chain also offered some sweet deals for "Back to the Future Day" on October 21, 2025, with 30% off in-store purchases for fans dressed as Doc Brown or Marty McFly. Plus, they're hosting a "Fan Appreciation Day" on October 27, 2025, featuring a buy-one-get-one offer and 2x points for Real Rewards members. These are fun, tasty ways to celebrate the film's enduring humor and heart.

Beyond the Screen: Fan Events, Props, and Hidden History for Enthusiasts

The anniversary festivities aren't just limited to theaters and official conventions. Fans across the globe are joining in the fun! In Las Vegas, for instance, Pandemonium Cards & Comics celebrated with a 19.85% discount on select items, nodding to the film's 1985 release. They were joined by "Back to the Future" historian Chris Sandford, who brought one of the country's most impressive real-life DeLorean time machines, complete with a functioning flux capacitor. He even brought screen-used props like Marty's hoverboard, Biff's hoverboard, the Sports Almanac, and one of the disappearing photos from the franchise. These fan-led events truly capture the spirit of the film!

If you're looking for an even more interactive experience, don't forget about the Back to the Future Escape Room at Universal Great Movie Escape in Orlando. It’s one of two options there (the other being Jurassic Park), and it even features a cameo from none other than Christopher Lloyd himself, reprising his role as Doc Brown!

Speaking of history, here's a fun fact you might not know: producers originally considered using a refrigerator as the time machine! They changed their minds, fearing kids might try to replicate it, which could be dangerous. And did you know that Eric Stoltz was initially cast as Marty McFly, filming for five weeks before being replaced by Michael J. Fox? These tidbits only add to the rich legacy of this beloved film.

"We knew going in nobody ever predicts the future accurately; it can’t be done."

— Bob Gale, Co-writer of Back to the Future (CBS News, 2015) Why We Still Love This Timeless Classic Four Decades Later

It's truly remarkable how Back to the Future continues to resonate with audiences 40 years on. In 1985, it wasn't just a hit; it was the highest-grossing movie of the year, raking in nearly $400 million at the box office (including its 2010 re-release). But its success isn't just about numbers; it's about its heart, humor, and universal themes.

The film's blend of sci-fi adventure, coming-of-age story, and family drama makes it endlessly rewatchable. Whether it's kids discovering it for the first time or Gen Xers who've seen it countless times, the story of Marty trying to ensure his parents fall in love and get back to his own time never gets old. Director Robert Zemeckis and co-writer Bob Gale created a truly special film, and their steadfast refusal to greenlight a Back to the Future 4 – with Zemeckis remarking it "just isn't in the cards" – helps preserve the perfect integrity of the original trilogy. This dedication ensures the finished story remains a classic unto itself.

Even brands are still finding ways to nod to its cultural impact. In October 2025, Casio launched a calculator-watch homage tied to the film's 40th anniversary and Back to the Future Day, complete with DeLorean cues and packaging that tips its hat to the trilogy’s iconic look.

Understanding 'Back to the Future Day' – No More Hoaxes!

Speaking of October 21st, let's clear up some time-traveling confusion. "Back to the Future Day" refers specifically to October 21, 2015 – the exact date Doc Brown programs into the DeLorean in Back to the Future Part II when he takes Marty to the future. That was the one and only time the in-story "future day" matched a real-life calendar date.

For years, viral hoaxes circulated online, with photoshopped images of the DeLorean's time circuits showing various "today is the day" dates long before 2015. These fake screenshots caused a lot of confusion, first in 2010 and again in 2012, until media outlets and even the film's creators had to set the record straight. So, if you see a post claiming it's "Back to the Future Day" outside of October 21st, you know it's probably a relic from a past internet hoax!

Now, October 21st is generally observed annually by fans as a lighthearted celebration of the film's legacy. As co-writer Bob Gale famously said, they never intended to predict the future accurately, making the 2015 setting a playful world-building choice rather than a prophecy. Christopher Lloyd himself marked the real 2015 date with a message to fans, urging them to write their own futures, framing the day as an occasion for optimism.

Don't Miss Out on This Epic Anniversary!

From the big screen to your home collection, from delicious frozen treats to exclusive art and star-studded conventions, the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future is shaping up to be an absolute blast from the past (and future!). So whether you're a long-time fan or discovering the magic for the first time, make sure to mark your calendars and join the celebration. After all, where you're going, you don't need roads... but you might need a popcorn bucket!

Frequently Asked Questions About the 40th Anniversary Celebrations When can I see Back to the Future in theaters for its 40th anniversary? The original Back to the Future will be re-released in theaters nationwide, including IMAX and 4DX, starting on October 31, 2025. There's also an early 4DX screening in Los Angeles on October 27, 2025. How can I get the DeLorean popcorn bucket? You can purchase the light-up DeLorean popcorn bucket at participating AMC Theatres starting October 26, 2025, while supplies last. Alternatively, Fandango at Home offers a "McFly Movie Popcorn Bundle" online, which includes the digital trilogy and the bucket shipped to you. What's happening at Tokyo Comic Con for the anniversary? Tokyo Comic Con 2025 (December 5-7) will feature exclusive artwork by ten Japanese anime/manga artists, limited-edition merchandise, a DeLorean photo spot, and appearances by Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Tom Wilson, and Claudia Wells. There will also be a special 40th-anniversary ceremony and signed Michael J. Fox portraits. What is the significance of October 21st? October 21, 2015, is the specific date Marty McFly and Doc Brown travel to in Back to the Future Part II. While the actual "future day" occurred in 2015, fans annually observe October 21st as "Back to the Future Day" to celebrate the film. Many brands join in the celebratory nod. Sources

• SoraNews24 - Back to the Future gets anime/manga artist makeover with chibi Marty and handsome Biff (Pics)
• KLAS - Celebrating ‘Back to the Future’ day in Vegas
• Attractions Magazine - ‘Back to the Future’ popcorn buckets arrive at AMC movie theaters in time for the film’s 40th anniversary re-release on the big screen.
• Yogurtland PR - Yogurtland x Universal Pictures Home Entertainment Collaboration
• Virginia This Morning - "Celebrating Back to the Future Day" with the DeLorean
• Santanu Das, ScreenRant - Is long-running Back to the Future Day real? Viral claim debunked
• ScreenRant - Back to the Future Goes All Out For 40th Anniversary With Early 4DX Screening & DeLorean Time Machine
• Anime News - Celebrating 40 Years of Back to the Future: Legendary Manga Artists and Illustrators Pay Tribute with Special Artwork
• CinemaBlend - Back To The Future Is Celebrating Its 40th Anniversary With A Limited Re-Release, And I’m So There
• Media Play News - Fandango at Home Offers ‘Back to the Future’ 40th Anniversary Bundle With DeLorean Popcorn Bucket