Disney Marathon Dates: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a Disney fan and a running enthusiast like me, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of participating in a runDisney race. Combining the magic of the Disney theme parks with the excitement of racing, these events bring together Disney lovers, casual and serious runners, and the entire family for an unforgettable experience. After participating in my first runDisney event, I quickly realized these races aren’t just about crossing the finish line—they’re about celebrating Disney magic while achieving personal goals. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Disney marathon dates and the various race weekends that make up the runDisney calendar year.

Disney Marathon Dates for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is arguably the most iconic event in the runDisney lineup. It happens every January at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. The 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend takes place from January 8 – 12, 2025. This event typically kicks off the calendar year for runDisney fans, and it features an impressive variety of different races:

• 5K (3.1-miles)
• 10K (6.2-miles)
• Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
• Marathon (26.2 miles)

The highlight of the weekend is the full marathon held on the Sunday of marathon weekend. The race takes you through all four Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT, including incredible sights like Cinderella Castle and the World Showcase. For runners looking for an extra challenge, the Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge offer incredible opportunities to test your limits.

Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge

Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge is for runners ready to tackle the Walt Disney World Half Marathon on Saturday and the Full Marathon on Sunday. Completing both races, which total 39.3 miles, earns you the coveted Goofy’s Challenge Medal. For the truly ambitious, the Dopey Challenge includes all four races (5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon) over the four days, totaling 48.6 miles!

The sense of accomplishment when finishing the Dopey Challenge is unmatched. While the challenge is physically demanding, it’s also filled with moments of pure Disney joy, from running through the Disney theme parks before sunrise to stopping for photos with Mickey Mouse and other characters.

Other runDisney Events

Beyond the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, there are plenty of other runDisney events throughout the year to mark on your calendar:

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend is returning to the Disneyland Resort in California from January 30 to February 2, 2025, much to the excitement of West Coast runners. It features a mix of individual events including yoga, 5K, 10K, half marathon, kids races, and the Dumbo Double Dare Challenge, which gives participants the opportunity to earn an extra medal by completing the 10K and half marathon. Combining this race weekend with a visit to the classic Disney era attractions at Disneyland makes for an unforgettable experience.

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend

Held in February at Walt Disney World, the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is perfect for those who love Disney royalty. The event features a 5K, 10K, half marathon, yoga, and the Disney Fairytale Challenge with a magical nostalgic Disney twist. Many runners dress up as their favorite Disney princesses, and the atmosphere is celebratory. The 2025 event takes place from February 20 – 24, 2025.

Springtime Surprise Weekend 

For those looking for a different distance, the runDisney Springtime Surprise Race Weekend offers a 10-mile distance, along with a 5K, 10K, and challenge that combines all three races. The race weekend is held at Walt Disney World Resort in April, and the 2025 event will be from April 3 to 6, 2025.  

Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend

The Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend takes place this September at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California from September 4 – 7, 2025. This spooky-themed event offers a variety of race options, including yoga, a 5K, 10K, half marathon, kids races, and the Chills & Thrills Challenge. Pairing this race weekend with a visit to Disneyland for the fan-favorite Halloweentime festivities will make for a frightfully fun experience for runners and Disney lovers of all ages.

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend

Every November, the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend offers a unique racing experience. The highlight is the half marathon followed by an epic post-race celebration at EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival. Crossing the finish line and then enjoying global cuisines is an experience like no other! Dates for 2025 have not been announced at this time.

Registration and Pacing Requirements

For all runDisney events, understanding general registration and pacing requirements is essential. Registration opens months in advance, and these races sell out quickly, especially for popular events like the Dopey Challenge or Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

I’ve learned that being ready to sign up the moment general registration opens is key to securing a race bib. Platinum and Club runDisney Gold members receive early access, but the general public can still register if they’re quick.

Pacing requirements are important for anyone participating in a runDisney race. Runners must maintain a minimum pace of 16 minutes per mile to avoid being swept off the race course. Don’t worry, though—you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pause for photos or to enjoy the Disney magic along the way.

The Magic of runDisney Medals

One of the most special parts of participating in a runDisney race is crossing the finish line and receiving a medal that feels like pure Disney magic. These medals are more than just race rewards—they’re beautifully designed keepsakes that feature favorite Disney characters and intricate details. Whether it’s a shimmering Minnie Mouse medal, a Goofy Challenge medal, or a Halloween-themed design, each medal tells the story of the hard work, fun, and Disney spirit that goes into every race. Runners often display these medals proudly as symbols of their achievements and magical memories.

Earning the Coast-to-Coast Medal

For dedicated Disney runners, earning the coveted Coast-to-Coast medal is a bucket list achievement. To qualify, participants must complete a half marathon or marathon at both the Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida within the same calendar year. Combining race weekends at both iconic Disney destinations allows runners to experience the magic of the parks on both coasts while earning an exclusive medal that symbolizes their accomplishment and passion for runDisney events.

Pre-Race Events: Health and Fitness Expo and Family Reunion Area

Before race day, the Healthy and Fitness Expo at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is a must-visit. It’s where runners pick up their race bib, explore running gear, and learn race tips. I love wandering through the expo, soaking up the energy, posing for pre-race photos, and shopping for commemorative race merchandise.

On race day, family members and friends can gather in the Family Reunion Area to cheer you on. 

Virtual Races and Fundraising Opportunities

If you can’t attend in person, virtual races allow you to participate from home. Runners can complete the distance at their own pace while still earning medals and race swag. I’ve done a virtual 5K to stay motivated between big race weekends, and it’s a great way to keep training. 

runDisney events also offer fundraising campaigns for charity through participating organizations. By meeting a fundraising minimum, you can secure a spot in races (even sold out races) while supporting meaningful causes. 

Why Disney Races Are Perfect for Disney Fans

What makes runDisney events so special is the unique blend of running and Disney magic. Whether you’re running by Cinderella Castle, posing with Minnie Mouse for a mid-race selfie, or earning an extra medal for completing a challenge, every moment feels like part of an unforgettable adventure. Plus, when else can you wake up before dawn to run through the Disney theme parks?

As a lifelong Disney fan, these races allow me to experience the parks in a whole new way. The energy, the costumes, the characters, and the sense of camaraderie among runners make each runDisney weekend a memory I treasure.

I remember nervously standing at the starting line of my first half marathon on a chilly February morning. The excitement was palpable as runners dressed as their favorite Disney characters cheered each other on. By the time I crossed the finish line, I was grinning ear-to-ear, holding my half marathon medal proudly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering participating in a runDisney event, knowing the Disney marathon dates is your first step toward an incredible journey. Whether you’re tackling the Dopey Challenge, running the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, or celebrating at the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend, there’s a race for every Disney fan.

For me, crossing that finish line and holding a shiny Disney medal feels like the perfect blend of magic and achievement. So mark your calendars, lace up your running shoes, and get ready to experience the joy of a runDisney race—you won’t regret it!