On the heels of the announcement that Walt Disney Studios was distributing The Avengers and Iron Man 3, Disney has also announced a May 3, 2013 release date for Iron Man 3.

The move falls in line with the release pattern for both Iron Man and Iron Man 2, which hit theaters on the first Friday of May. This particular weekend traditionally marks the start of the summer movie season. Iron Man was released on May 2, 2008 while Iron Man 2 hit theaters on May 7, 2010. Marvel is currently continuing the tradition with Thor, which is set to kick off the summer season next year on May 6, 2011. And The Avengers will hit theaters on May 4, 2012.

No additional details were given on Iron Man 3 at this time, but we'll be sure to keep you posted with any further information as soon as it becomes available.