By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
For runners who love Disney, runDisney is a popular “bucket list” running event. It is even a “bucket list” event for non-runners who just want to experience running through the parks! The ins and outs of signing up for a runDisney event can be a little daunting for first timers. Especially because runDisney is technically a separate company from the Disney Parks companies. If you are interested in experiencing your first runDisney event, or a longtime runDisney participant looking for some tips and tricks we have got you covered. Read on for our expert knowledge on all things runDisney.
What is runDisney?
RunDisney is a road race event series that takes place around the world at the various Disney Parks. RunDisney is part of Disney Sports Enterprises and is a separate company than the Disney Parks companies. Because of this separation, runDisney has their own website with a log-in that is different from the log-in information used for the rest of the Disney websites. These running events are incredibly popular for several reasons. The races take place early in the morning (the events start at 5am with corrals opening even earlier) and the routes take participants through the parks before they are open for guests. At Walt Disney World, short races go through EPCOT, middle distance races go through EPCOT and Hollywood Studios or Magic Kingdom, and the marathon goes through all 4 parks. The races also feature character photo opportunities where participants can briefly stop for photos with characters. The characters included in races are often “rare” and not generally out and about in the parks. The participation medals are also highly coveted collectors items.
The events range from yoga to 5ks to marathons. Participants can sign up for individual events or they can complete “challenges”. During an event weekend, racing in every running event will earn the participant a special challenge medal with its own theme. Speaking of themes, each event has its own unique theme that is revealed prior to the event registration. For example, Princess Weekend has a different princess theme for each of the 4 racing events. Marathon weekend at Walt Disney World always uses Chip and Dale, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald and Daisy Duck, Pluto, and Goofy as themes for the events.
Where are runDisney events?
After 2020, the events are held exclusively at Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California. These events are held on Disney Parks property and on the streets nearby. Prior to 2020, events were also held in Paris.
When are runDisney events?
The events are held in the fall, winter, and spring seasons. No events are held in the summer due to heat concerns. Walt Disney World has traditionally had four events held in November (Wine & Dine), January (Marathon Weekend), February (Princess), and April (Springtime Surprise). Disneyland has two events in September/October and January (Half Marathon Weekend).
Who can participate?
According to the runDisney official website:
Each person must meet the eligibility requirements for their specific event, as follows:
All participants for a 5K distance must be at least 5 years of age or older on race day to participate and must be able to complete the 5K on their own.
Participants for a 10K distance must be 10 years of age or older.
Participants for a half marathon must be 14 years of age or older.
Participants for a marathon must be 18 years of age or older.
Participants for the Goofy’s Race and Dopey Challenge must be 18 years of age or older.
How do I sign up for an event?
RunDisney event registration is on their website https://www.rundisney.com/ through a runDisney personal account. The cost for each event varies and is noted on the website prior to registration opening. The registration date for each event is also noted on the website and happens approximately 7 months prior to the event.
Where should I stay when participating in an event?
Participants can stay either on property or nearby.
WDW: There are many factors to consider when selecting an onsite WDW resort to stay at during a runDisney event. The monorail only runs during half marathon or marathon races to take participants to and from the event. If you plan on running in a half or full marathon race, then staying at a monorail resort is incredibly convenient. The skyliner and the WDW buses do not run early to take participants from the resorts to the event and participants have to rely on runDisney event busses or a rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) to get to the event. Aside from staying at a monorail resort, you may also want to consider resorts that can access the parks from the skyliner, water transportation, or via footpath. The roads around the parks are closed until after the events are over and can complicate guests getting to the parks via bus once the parks open.
DL: Participants can stay either onsite or in a Good Neighbor Hotel in order to access the runDisney sponsored bus transportation to get to and from the events.
How do I get to the event from my hotel?
RunDisney provides free buses from onsite resorts to and from the events; the schedule of buses is provided by RunDisney prior to the events. Those who are staying at a monorail resort (Grand Floridian, Polynesian, or Contemporary) can use the monorail to get to and from the events for half and full marathon races only. Participants can also use a rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) but should be cautious of the road closures.
Other tips and tricks for success
Check park opening times for the days you plan on heading to a park. The parks (specifically EPCOT and Magic Kingdom) generally have delayed opening times during the half marathon and full marathon races.
Think about which park you’d like to go to on the day of a race and how you will be getting there. Major roads around the parks are closed between 3am-10am (or later) during the races and can drastically affect how long it takes to travel to a park by resort bus. The skyliner and monorail are very useful during these times.
Plan to arrive at the event at least 1 hour before your assigned corral closes. There is a decently long walk between where participants are dropped off and the corrals. Participants will also need to go through security before accessing the event.
RunDisney events are a fun and unique way to make even more magical Disney memories. We would love to help you book the perfect trip for your runDisney event!
For more on-site tips to make your Disney vacation the most magical it can be, please contact us at Royal Carriage Vacations about planning your magical Disney vacation!
