Are you looking for a new way to experience the magic of Disney parks—something you never thought you’d be able to do before? Whether you’re a seasoned ultramarathoner or have never run a mile, runDisney events offer a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and create unforgettable memories, and are open to runners of all experience levels.
Picture yourself running through the Disney parks in the early morning hours, sharing the course with fellow runners dressed in their best Disney-inspired costumes. From 5Ks and 10Ks to half marathons, there’s a race for everyone, and with runDisney training plans and easy runDisney registration, your journey to the finish line has never been more attainable—or magical!
Lace up those running shoes, because this guide has everything you need to know about the magic of runDisney. ✨
Your Step-by-Step Guide for runDisney Race Registration and Planning
The first time I ran a runDisney race, I was so lost! I'm surprised I even made it to race day without bumbling or fumbling the necessary steps to get there. Thanks to friends who are dedicated runDisney participants, I was able to get through the required steps and I arrived at Epcot at 3:30 a.m., tired but also exhilarated to be running in my first runDisney event. By the next race... I was still a little lost! I wish I'd had a guide like this to follow. Now I'm a seasoned pro at these events, however the queue on registration day never gets easier!
1. First Things First: Create an Account on the runDisney Website to Begin the Registration and Planning Process
Fill in your personal details, including your name, email address, and contact information. Create a username and password to access your account. Make sure to know your user name and password when registration begins!
2. Keep an Eye Out for runDisney Registration Opening Dates
Stay updated on the RunDisney website or social media channels for announcements about registration opening dates. Check the RunDisney official blog and event page for upcoming races and and information, but we have found simply following RunDisney on Instagram or other social media platforms works the best for us!
Mark your calendar and set a reminder for when registration opens for your desired race.
3. Log In at 10am EST to Register for Your Desired runDisney Race
On the day of registration, log in to your runDisney account promptly at 10am EST (or just before). The queue to register is notoriously brutal! DO NOT refresh your page or close out of the site once you’re in the queue. Please don’t refresh your page. Just don’t do it.
Navigate to the registration page for the specific race you want to participate in. Have a backup race in mind in case the one you want sells out. runDisney races have a tendency to sell out fairly quickly.
4. Select Your Shirt Size
During the registration process, you'll be prompted to select your shirt size (women’s or unisex). Choose the size that fits you best to ensure you receive the perfect race shirt. Each shirt seems to run a bit different for each race, we suggest sizing up if you are in between sizes.
5. Complete the Registration Process
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the registration process. It is suggested to register for yourself first before registering for others; or, if you are registering for several people, task someone to divide and conquer. I have heard many stories about one individual attempting to register large groups all at the same time, with only partial success or none at all, and that’s gotta be hard.
Enter your payment information and any additional details required.
Enter proof of time; races require actual proof of time if you are planning to run it under a certain timeframe. You can either enter it at registration if you have the information available, or update at a later time. This determines what corral you will be placed into. Review your registration details carefully before submitting.
6. Attend the Expo Prior to Race Day
runDisney events formally begin on the Thursdays prior to the the first race day. runDisney hosts an expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports compound that participants MUST attend in person, to pick up their bibs, shirts, and any pre-purchased merchandise. Bring photo ID! You will be emailed an Expo Pass prior to arriving, which you can add to your digital wallet for easy access and entry to the expo.
Check the RunDisney website for expo dates, times, and location.
7. Attend Expo Presented by Corksickle
Explore the expo presented by Corksickle, where you'll find many vendors offering running gear, apparel, and Disney-themed merchandise. You can also pick up race-day must haves (or items you just forgot to pack!) like energy chews, non-slip sunglasses, glitter lipstick, and even tutus!
Take advantage of special offers and discounts available exclusively to RunDisney participants. It's a great way to lock in memories of the day - participants like to wear their spirit jerseys, jackets and medals to the parks afterward to celebrate!
Just remember to mark your calendars for registration dates, add any alarms if necessary, know your login and password to rundisney.com, and know which races you will be participating in. And breathe, and try not to feel anxious while you’re watching the blue bar crawl across your screen…. You can do this!
Important websites for runDisney events:
https://www.rundisney.com: create an account for registration and events
www.rundisneyexpo.com: for expo vendor and road closure information
www.MyDIsneyPhotoPass.com: race photos will post within 48 hours of race date. To link your bib to PhotoPass, find your 11 digit RaceID (on the back of your bib) and 5 digit bib number to link to within your My Disney Experience app. You can also purchase a package with this link if you don't already have Photo Pass.
www.trackshackresults.com: get your race results by going to www.rundisney/results and follow the link, or use the url directly.
www.rundisney/faq/: Frequently Asked Questions
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