At both Walt Disney World and Disneyland, running enthusiasts can participate in several running events where they can compete to win prizes, socialize with like-minded people and have a great time running through the Disney parks. All of the events are collectively known as runDisney events, and there are several held throughout the year for those who are up to the challenge.
During the fall, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend takes place. This event, held at Disneyland park in California, takes runners on a 13.1 mile course through Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, the city of Anaheim, CA and Disney’s California Adventure theme park with plenty of Disney magic along the way. The event weekend comprises several separate events, including the Half Marathon, the Family Fun Run 5k, and the Disneyland Kids’s Races, which features separate events for children ages 12 months and younger up to 8 years.
Also during the fall, the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon running event takes place at the Walt Disney World Resort and combines the magic of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival with the challenge of a runDisney race. This race is very unique, as it takes place completely at night, and finishers are awarded with a private Epcot after-party. The event consists of the Wine and Dine Half Marathon, the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Relay, the family-friendly Disney Halloween 5k, and Disney Kids’ Races.
During the winter months, runners can participate in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Similar to Disneyland’s marathon event, the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend will feature the Walt Disney World Marathon, the brand new Marathon Relay, the Half Marathon, the Family Fun Run 5k and Disney Kids’ Races. Additionally, runners who participate in both the half marathon and full marathon will be eligible to complete Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge!
Also taking place during the winter is the recently announced Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort! This exclusive running event for women will take runners through the Disneyland Resort and the city of Anaheim, and features the Tinkerbell Half Marathon, the Neverland Family Fun Run 5k and of course the Disney Kids’ Races.
In February, another princess-themed running event takes place at Walt Disney World Resort – the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. Runners will experience the magic of the Walt Disney World theme parks like never before as they race to the finish line on a 13.1 mile course. The event will include the Half Marathon, the Family Fun Run 5k, and the Disney’s Kids’ Races.
During the spring, runners can compete in the Champion 5k at Dick’s Sporting Goods Presents ESPN The Weekend! The event takes place along a course outside Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and runners get the chance to be up close and personal with star athletes and well-known ESPN personalities. The race event is fun for the whole family, and includes the running events (including Disney’s Kids’ Races) as well as plenty of interactive opportunities for sports fans and athletes alike.
Finally, runDisney presents another running event in May – the Expedition Everest Challenge. The event takes place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, and is unlike any other Disney running event. The challenge consists of a traditional run, but incorporates both an obstacle course and a scavenger hunt. In addition to the 5k adventure run, there will also be Disney Kids’ Races available. Awards will be presented to the top three participants in both the Teams and Individuals divisions.
With seven different Disney running events held annually at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, running enthusiasts can find a race to suit just about any preference. These events work to bring together Disney fans and running advocates in a fun, magical environment unlike any other race experience, and continue to be very popular.