RunDisney Events at Walt Disney World

Thinking about participating in a runDisney event at Walt Disney World? Here’s everything you need to know!

One thing you can count on when you visit Walt Disney World is that there will be A LOT of walking. What you may not know is that you can run at Disney, too. I’ve known about runDisney events for awhile but since I haven’t worked out in awhile, hadn’t thought twice about it. However, after learning more about it at a recent Disney event, I’m dying to give it a try! 

RunDisney

RunDisney races are sponsored weekend running events that Disney hosts on select dates throughout the year. If you love Disney and you love running too, then you should register for a runDisney event the next time you visit Walt Disney World. Okay, the truth is that I really don’t love running all that much but I DO love Disney and this looks like a lot fun!

Here is a quick overview of all the information you need to know about What runDisney is and what kind of events you can participate in.

What is RunDisney?

RunDisney is a series of character fueled running events at Walt Disney World. Each race has a different theme, and there are different levels of races and challenges that range from kid-focused to full marathon. With runDisney races, you can experience the parks in a fun and unique way.

The races start with the sound of bursting fireworks and the music keeps you inspired as you race through the Disney parks. Since the races take place before the parks open, runners have the parks all to themselves with Disney characters cheering them on along the way!

What RunDisney Races Are There?

The themes of runDisney events vary throughout the year. and they can inspire you through character motivation and even runDisney merchandise and clothing that matches your event. This fall, Disney will host the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend to tie in with the International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot. Events include a 5K, 10K, and a half marathon. There’s also a Kids 1 mile run, Kids Dashes, and a 2 Course Challenge. This event kicks off with the Health and Fitness Expo on October 31 and runs until November 2.

The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend takes place in January and features a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon, and Kids Dashes. There are other challenges as well, including Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge and the Dopey Challenge. The Health and Fitness Expo for this RunDisney event goes from January 8-11, 2020.

Other upcoming runDisney events are the Princess Half Marathon Weekend from February 20-23 and the Star Wars Rival Run Weekend from April 16-19, 2020. The Star Wars and Princess events both feature 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon runs as well as challenges and kids runs.

The Star Wars event also includes two Kessel Run Challenges. These combine a Rival Run Challenge or Half Marathon with a Virtual Half Marathon. Complete Virtual Runs can be done on your own time, a great option for those that want to participate but can’t fit a regular event into their schedule.

I’ve been so excited to run one of these races that I’ve registered for the Star Wars 5K. If that goes well and I actually make it across the finish line, I’ll go for the 10K next time!

How To Race For A Good Cause

You can even race for a good cause when you participate in a runDisney event. Since the races start early in the morning, the temperatures can be chilly. Wear a jacket or sweater that you don’t plan to keep. When you start to heat up, take it off, throw it to the side and it’ll be donated to charity.

I love this idea! I’m always cold but don’t want to be stuck carrying a jacket for the whole race. This makes things easier for the runners AND it’s for a good cause…a win/win for everyone!

How to Enter a RunDisney Race?

You can register for a runDisney event at rundisney.com/events. Each themed runDisney weekend has a variety of races to choose from and individual pricing for registration. Prices range from under $90 for a 5K to around $200 for a Half Marathon. Challenges will run the most and The Dopey Challenge for the Marathon Weekend in January is $590 to enter.

What do You Get for Running?

All participants in runDisney events receive coveted one-of-a-kind medals themed to that particular event.

In addition to the Disney World runDisney events, there is a Disneyland Paris Event which includes a Disneyland Paris medallion featuring Le Château de la Belle Au Bois Dormant. Sounds like a pretty good reason to plan a trip to France, don’t you think?

Have you done a runDisney event? Any tips for a first timer like me?