Growing up, I never considered myself a “runner.” Runners were fast, always in shape, and looked a certain way.
If you run, you’re a runner. Period.
Leave it to Disney to help get that point out to the masses and make it incredibly fun in the process. Leave it to Disney to make you want to pay to get up at 2am and run in costume before the sun comes up.
As of 2026, I have participated in five runDisney races. I’ve also completed 10 other half marathons, one very large full marathon, and countless other local races. Let me tell you why runDisney is great, how it compares to other large races, the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way, and why they continue to grow year after year.
What’s so great about it?
runDisney is great for a few big reasons:
It’s the most inclusive running event I’ve ever been a part of. New to running? Great. Seasoned runner? Fantastic. runDisney is for you as long as you’re willing to have fun.
It’s Disney level organized. I’ve been part of a lot of events with a lot of people. Nothing compares to the organization level of a runDisney race.
As they say, every mile is magic. It truly is. The course entertainment is incredible unique.
So how do I sign up?
The first part of participating in a runDisney race is the registration. This might be the most challenging part of the whole endeavor. These races fill up fast. I mean, really fast.
The Race Weekend Lineup
Most race weekends include a 5k on Friday, 10k on Saturday, and Half Marathon on Sunday. In January for Marathon Weekend, everything gets pushed one day earlier to accommodate the full marathon on Sunday (but that’s a whole different beast!)
Registration Tips
When I registered for the most recent Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend back in February, the half marathon was sold out in literally 75 minutes. If you want to get in:
Use multiple devices. I suggest having multiple devices in the queue to register before the 10am window opens (I had two laptops, my phone, and my iPad ready to go).
Follow runDisney’s Instagram account for registration windows they’re great about reminding you!
Register your group together.If you’re registering multiple people, do it all in one registration and figure out the money later. There’s no guarantee that someone else will get through the queue even if you succeed.
What about the cost?
runDisney races are going to cost you a bit. However, the race swag and organization are worth it. The finisher medals and race shirts (sponsored by Brooks this year!) are unmatched.
What does race weekend look like?
The Race Expo
Hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex(with transportation from Disney hotels), the expo is BIG. Countless high quality vendors ready to supply fuel, gear, tech, the works. Most importantly, this is where you get your race bib and your t-shirt.
Go early if you want the best gear. This year, the 5K pins and magnets sold out two hours after the expo opened. The exclusive runDisney Brooks shoes (themed for Mary Poppins, Goofy, and Grumpy this year) are worth the wait, or check the Brooks website after race weekend.
Race Morning
Be prepared to be awake around 2–3am! Set everything out the night before: bib, race outfit (glitter and costumes are basically mandatory), shoes, fuel, and your ID if you want a post-race beverage. Bus transportation is provided from every Walt Disney World Resort Collection hotel directly to the start line, where you’ll find medical tents, baby care tents, food, and characters to meet.
On the Course
Waves go off starting at 5am every 2–3 minutes. Character meet and greets, bands, comedians, and other entertainment await you inside the parks and along the roads around Walt Disney World.
If you want to PR a race, I wouldn’t necessarily suggest a runDisney race parts of the course are narrow, and many participants use a run-walk method. You’re there to enjoy the experience! Just know you’ll need to hold a pace of 16 minutes per mile or faster. The famous Balloon Ladies bring up the rear, but don’t worry, they’re nice!
At the Finish Line
Your fabulous medal awaits you along with a snack box full of goodies, the most expensive and hard-earned banana you’ll ever have, character meet and greets, and PhotoPass for medal-laden photos. Buses then take you directly back to your resort hotel!
Bonus: The Wine & Dine After-Party
On Sunday night, Disney closes EPCOT early for a late-night celebration for half marathon participants (and friends and family with an event ticket), complete with event-specific treats and short wait times.
Was This My Last runDisney Race?
Absolutely not. I’d love to help you plan the whole race-cation! I promise, the miles really are magic.
About the Author
This article was written by Corinne Valentine, travel agent with Triple the Magic Travel Co. Any Disney vacation is amazing, but there is something so special about a runDisney race weekend! Ready to register for one? Contact Corinne for personalized travel planning at no additional cost to you!
Email: vacaybyvalentine@gmail.com
Instagram: VacaybyValentine
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