The runDisney events held at the both the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort are becoming increasingly popular. With new races being added to events like Marathon Weekend, there is something for the beginning runner to the experienced athlete. There are even race events for children. With so many offerings it’s hard to decide which event and which races to choose. This article covers an overview about the current runDisney events held at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Marathon Weekend: Held in January every year, Marathon Weekend is runDisney’s premiere event. From the kids races to the full marathon, the weekend has turned into 5 day event with races every day. Newly added in 2014 was the Dopey Challenge, where runners run the Family Fun Run 5K, the 10K, 1/2 Marathon and Marthon earning 6 medals and the coveted title of being a runner of the Dopey Challenge. In addition to the races, runners can take part in Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo where speakers like runDisney’s official running expert Jeff Galloway and Disney nutritionist Tara Gidus present on various running, health and fitness related topics. There’s also no shortage of swag that guests can purchase throughout the expo. Marathon Weekend also hosts a Pasta in the Park Party and a Cool Down Party for those runners to celebrate their achievements. The Marathon Weekend events sell out quickly, so runners looking to participate in this event, should stay tuned to the runDisney site for information about race registration.
Princess Half Marathon Weekend: Held in February, this event celebrates girl power! Girls and women of all ages are invited to participate in the royal races that take place during this weekend. Races include the Cinderella Royal Family 5K, Disney Enchanted 10K and the Half Marathon. Complete all three and you will gain the distinction of completing the Glass Slipper Challenge. The Expo is definitely fit for a princess. This has quickly become one of the most popular runDisney events. And for the 2014 race Chip & Co has partnered with Destinations in Florida to have a race team!
Expedition Everest Challenge: Held in May, this is a unique runDisney event. Unlike many runDisney events, the Expedition Everest Challenge takes place at night in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and is a combination of 5K run and scavenger hunt. Runners register as a two-person trek team and can be all male, all female, co-ed or military. Families can also participate in the Expedition Everest Challenge Family Edition and the festivities also include kids races. After the race, runners get to celebrate at a nighttime party at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Now that’s wild!
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend: Held in October, this event is sure to bring the spooky to your runDisney race. Inspired by the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, this is another night run which takes place in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the ESPN Wide World of Sports. There’s sure to be wall-to-wall creeps and hot & cold running chills throughout the event! For a morning run, there’s the Happy Haunted 5K which takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports and is partially a trail run. Watch out for hitchhiking ghosts! One of the most popular parts of this weekend is the Villains Bash held at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s spooktacular!
Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend: Held during Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, runners are sure to be treated to some tasty treats before and after their run. Like many other runDisney events, this is also held at night. The after party is held at Epcot and runners get to enjoy all the offerings from the Food & Wine Festival. Now that’s a race finish! For guests looking to get into the winter holiday spirit, this weekend also hosts the Jingle Jungle 5K held at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. If you love Christmas, this is the race for you. There’s even “snow” to help you celebrate your run.
With so many runDisney race events, it can be hard to choose just one. In fact, runDisney enthusiasts often say you get the “runDisney” bug. If you’re interested in runDisney events and for all the latest runDisney information, check out the runDisney website for more information. And stay tuned to Chip & Co. for information about runDisney events.
Have you been to a runDisney event? Which ones are your favorite?
When Sarah isn’t sharing planning tips about the Walt Disney World Resort, you can find her at Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW where she writes dining reviews and shares tips and tricks about dining at Disney with a special diet.
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They are definitely expensive races but really fun. I do love the atmosphere and the entertainment. Like many things at Disney, non-Disney races just aren’t quite the same! I’m glad to hear other runDisney fans too!
JME, the cost IS high, but you get SO much for that money! On-course entertainment, GREAT finisher medal, post-race snacks (runner box, bananas, water, powerAde). Also, you need to factor in overhead. Local races are usually less expensive. Disney has to have so many more cast members there for the runners.
However, I know that some races I can’t justify the prices for, and I don’t run them. But I think that, for the most part, Disney races are races that I REALLY want to race, so I save up for them.
I have run the ESPN 5K (no longer exists) & the Food/Wine Jingle Jungle 5K and loved them both. The experience of running through the parks is amazing and the energy throughout the entire race really keeps you motivated BUT They are just so expensive… I’m running a 10 mile race in Chicago (finishing on the 50yd line of Soldier Field) and it’s only $70… The same 10 mile distance Disney Tower of Terror Race is $135. Why?