Disney Park Runner

Here’s your start line for conquering the runDisney races

Hello, friends! Welcome to the Disney Park Runner blog! This is the place to get the low-down on runDisney races, theme park tips and tricks, and our take on all things Disney.

Have you ever thought about registering for a runDisney race?  They’re big fun for new and experienced runners.  There’s always such a magical vibe on race weekend.  Costumes! Characters!  Parks! Medals! And the feeling when you cross the finish line that you can’t wait to do it again (maybe after a margarita in Mexico and a soak in the hot tub at the resort).

So what is a race weekend?  4 weekends a year, Walt Disney World hosts 3 or 4 days of back-to-back races.  There’s always a 5k and a 10k, sometimes a 10 mile race or a half marathon, and the signature event, the Walt Disney World Marathon is held in early January.  For the adventurous, intrepid, or plain foolhardy runners, there’s always a challenge option, that allows you run multiple races and score some seriously exclusive bling.  If you can’t make it to Florida, there is usually a virtual option as well.  Yeah, it’s not as much fun, but (slightly) more cost effective, and the hardware still looks great hanging on your wall.

In-person racing goes on hiatus in the summer months, but to keep you in the flow, runDisney offers virtual races in the summer.  You’re on the honor system to earn your medals, but the virtual races can be a fun way to keep up your training through the summer months. 

Here’s the typical race weekend timing:

Early January – Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

• 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge (Half Marathon and Marathon), Dopey Challenge (all FOUR races…yes, very, VERY Dopey idea)

Late February – Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend

• 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Disney Fairy Tale Challenge (10K and Half Marathon)

Late March – runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend

• 5K, 10K, 10 mile, Springtime Surprise Challenge (all three races)

Early November – Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend

• 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Two Course Challenge (10K and Half Marathon)

Other events might be held in conjunction with race weekends.  Sometimes you can register for a yoga event or an after party.  If you’re running a race, you will ALWAYS need to attend the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo the day before your event to pick up your bib(s), so make sure you plan for an extra day in your schedule.

Ready to join in?  These races are so much fun, they fill up FAST – sometimes in minutes, so stay tuned for tips and tricks for navigating the registration process.