Did you know there is a way to run through the Disney Parks and property, dressed as your favorite character, along with thousands of other Disney lovers as the sun rises over Spaceship Earth?
If you love seeing behind-the-stage areas at Disney parks, character photos, putting together creative outfits for yourself or a group of runners, and love the feeling of getting in a few good miles first thing in the morning, then runDisney events are totally for you!
What Is a runDisney Event?
RunDisney is Disney's lineup of running events that are held at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. These aren't just your average races, however; they are super fun, exhilarating experiences that combines the love of running with the magic of Disney.
It's not just about the running, either. runDisney races are inclusive and are participated by runners of all abilities and capabilities, from the serious racers intent on PRing every race, to casual participants who are joining their first ever race. I have been running for over 20 years, and these races have invigorate my love for trining and racing!
For me, runDisney races are all about seeing the parks in a new way, from backstage glimpses to road running between property and alongside resorts as the sun is coming up over Bay Lake.
RunDisney - Event Overview
runDisney seasons kicks off in January with the Disney Marathon weekend, and ends with the Wine and Dine Half Marathon in November. Throughout the year, runDisney hosts several events, including an Expo at the EPSN Wide World of Sports arena, sunrise yoga, afterparties at Epcot and water parks, and more.
It's definitely a lot to take in! There's a lot of preparation beyond just training, make sure to check out my blog on the full guide to runDisney Events and Registration to make sure you don't miss a crucial step leading up to race day!
Race Highlights at Walt Disney World
Let's take a closer look at the annual race events at Walt Disney World:
Marathon Weekend (January): There's a race for every runner during Marathon weekend! Four races over four days include a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and the only full Marathon of the year at Disney World. This is the oldest Disney World race, having celebrated its 30th year in 2023, and is definitely a fan favorite for theming and medals.
Princess Half Marathon (February): The Princess Half Marathon is one of the most fun to participate in - and is often the first RunDisney race newbies participate in. Dress up as your favorite princess, prince, or sidekick and run through the Disney parks. You may even see some full ball gowns on the course! This race weekend includes a 5K, 10K, and a Half Marathon course that takes you through the Magic Kingdom and Cinderella’s Castle. The Fairytale Challenge will earn you an extra medal when you complete the 10K and Half Marathon.
Springtime Surprise (April): This race kicks off with sunrise yoga in front of Cinderella’s Castle, and features a 5K, 10K and a 10-miler. Take home an extra medal by completing the Challenge race, which is all three runs combined! There is also an after-hours ticket option to Typhoon Lagoon water park, to soak those muscles and keep the race weekend celebration going late into the night.
Wine and Dine Half Marathon (November): Do you love running, Disney World, and food? Run through Epcot's International Food and Wine Festival, themed around Disney’s favorite foods and foodies (Be Our Guest, anyone?). This race offers a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and a Two Course Challenge 10K & Half Marathon, as well as an amazing post-race party after hours at Epcot, where you can wander the lands, grab delicious bites from around the world, and enjoy access to rides like Guardians of the Galaxy late into the night! There are also special character photo opportunities that are reserved for this event.
Capture the magic of your run with PhotoPass
One unique aspects of RunDisney events is the opportunity to capture magical moments along the course. With PhotoPass booths strategically placed throughout the route and character photo ops at every mile, runners can immortalize their Disney experience in photos. Plus, keep an eye out for rare characters who make special appearances during these events – it's a chance to meet your favorite Disney personalities like never before!
Disneyland races
At Disneyland, runners can immerse themselves in the world of Disney while conquering courses that wind through both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. From the charming streets of Main Street, U.S.A. to the exhilarating Pixar Pier, each race offers a unique and magical journey through the heart of the parks.
The Disneyland Half Marathon in January offers a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Full Marathon through the streets of the park that started it all, winding through the castle and Galaxy's Edge.
The Halloween Half Marathon weekend in October really puts some spook in your stride with a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and the Challenge race. Runners can also look forward to special themed events like the Star Wars Rival Run Weekend, where they can embrace their inner Jedi or Sith as they navigate the galaxy far, far away.
The races at Disneyland also offer something very special, for the whole family… RunDisney Kids races! For Disney fans aged 9 and younger, including a Diaper Dash for those who are still mastering the whole walking/running thing, this is the only race that is open to younger ages.
Coast to Coast Challenge
Starting with the re-launch of Disneyland races in 2024, you can now complete any race 10 miles or longer at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland to receive a RunDisney Coast to Coast Challenge medal. Talk about the ultimate achievement for any runner - and Disney fan!
I have been running for about 25 years, but I only registered for my first runDisney races in 2022. They have become my favorite running events of the year, hands down, and I have made some really great friends from participating, and the challenge of half marathons has definitely kept my training focused and on-point.
There is no right or wrong way to run a runDisney race. The point is to have the most fun possible, to be creative and experimental with your race costume, and to simply enjoy Disney property in a new, exciting way. If you've ever been on the fence, or if the idea has never even crossed your mind, I highly recommend trying a runDisney race, even once!
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