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This page is your ultimate guide to RunDisney 2023 & the Disney World Marathon Weekend 2023! From marathons to kids’ races, the Disney World RunDisney events are anything but conventional. These Walt Disney running events have become the leading destination for all types of racing-enthusiasts—from beginners to seasoned marathoners and everyone in between—and create magical adventures filled with Disney characters, live entertainment, and of course, commemorative Disney medals!
Here at The Park Prodigy we are HUGE RunDisney fans, and I have participated in over 11 race day events over the years. It simply has changed my life and I hope you find this RunDisney Blog helpful and I hope it helps you achieve your fitness goals!
So for our ultimate 2023 RunDisney guide read on!
Table of Contents
What is RunDisney 2023?
Run Disney is the most magical racing event on Earth, and perfect for those who have dreamt of running marathons at Walt Disney World. Every mile is magic with RunDisney. Guests will set out to tackle different race day courses throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks. There are several different RunDisney weekends throughout the year which allow guests multiple opportunities to take place in a RunDisney event. New for 2023, Disney also announced it will be hosting virtual events along with every RunDisney weekend for any guests who want to earn a race day medal but can’t make it to Florida.
The best part is the RunDisney events come in all varieties including kids races, RunDisney 5k, RunDisney 10K, RunDisney half marathon, and the featured event the Walt Disney World marathon. Guests can even sign up to participate in all of the races in one weekend (Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge), or tag along to support their favorite runner!
What are the RunDisney Races 2023?
RunDisney has really upped its game over the years with introducing new races over the years like the RunDisney Springtime Surprise in 2022! We love the different themes, like the retro 90’s theme for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in 2023 and can’t wait to find out what kind of running magical Disney can create! So, with that being said, not all RunDisney races are the same, so make sure you check out our list here of all RunDisney races throughout the year!
When is RunDisney 2023?
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January
- Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February
- Springtime Surprise Weekend – April
- Wine & Dine Half Marathon – November
What are the different RunDisney races?
On an average RunDisney weekends will have a variety of races including kids races, RunDisney 5k, RunDisney 10K, RunDisney half marathon, and the featured event the Walt Disney World marathon. Guests can even sign up to participate in all of the races in one weekend (Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge), or tag along to support their favorite runner!
- 5K
- 10K
- Half Marathon
- Race Challenges (2 or more races)
What's so Magical About RunDisney?
In my opinion it’s one of the most fun and enjoyable ways for any Disney fan to achieve their fitness goals! All runners who sign up for a 2023 RunDisney event can enjoy the following benefits:
Theme Park Race Experience
Runners will set out on a fantastic feat in the Disney World theme parks as you run through storied lands, encountering the magic of Disney.
Magical Entertainment & Medals
RunDisney runners will see beloved Disney Characters, enjoy special moments and receive commemorative medals to celebrate your accomplishments.
Legendary Disney Service
When it comes to exemplary Guest service and a uniquely Disney experience—Disney always goes the distance!
RunDisney Races 2023
There are multiple RunDisney weekend events throughout the year even including virtual events. Below are all of the announced RunDisney events in order guests can enjoy them!
What are the dates of the 2023 runDisney events?
- Springtime Surprise Weekend – April 13th, 2023
- Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon – November 2nd, 2023
2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon
The 2023 Disney Wine and Dine half marathon is by far one of the most popular RunDisney events at Walt Disney World. One of the main reasons this event is so much fun is it takes place during the popular Food and Wine festival at EPCOT. So after you achieve your fitness goals you can enjoy your favorite meal and beverage over at World Showcase.
This years 2023 Disney World Wine and Dine half marathon will feature your some of our favorite Disney characters. As always RunDisney has a few course selections for runners to participate in and they even added a virtual RunDisney event for guests looking to participate at home. We don’t quite know the 2023 runDisney Wine and Dine Marathon dates yet, but as soon as we do, we will update you here!
Wine & Dine 5K
Date: November 3rd, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Wine and Dine 5k includes the following benefits:
- 3.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 5K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib (you must register by August 17, 2021 to get your name on bib)
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificat3
Wine & Dine 10K
Date: November 4th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney 10k includes the following benefits:
- 6.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 10K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib (you must register by August 17, 2021 to get your name on bib)
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificat4
Wine & Dine Half Marathon
Date: November 5th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Wine & Dine half marathon includes the following benefits:
- 13.1 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib (you must register by August 17, 2021 to get your name on bib)
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
- $15 Disney Promo Card*—not valid after November 21, 2021
- After-Hours access to a post-race party at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Wine and Dine Two Course Challenge
Date: November 6th and 7th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Two Course Challenge includes the following benefits:
- 10K and Half Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Resort, totaling 19.3 Miles
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 2 Finisher Medals and 1 Challenge medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- 3 Participant Shirts
- Personalized Bib (you must register by August 17, 2021 to get your name on bib)
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
- $15 Disney Promo Card*—not valid after November 21, 2021
- After-Hours access to a post-race party at Epcot International food & Wine Festival
2023 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
The Walt Disney World marathon weekend is RunDisneys featured event! Although we generally have more fun at the Wine & Dine Half Marathon weekend due to the amazing after party experience there are certain things we love about the marathon weekend at Disney. For starters these are the only RunDisney events with courses which go through The Magic Kingdom. Not only that, but The Magic Kingdom is typically still decorated for Christmas with Cinderellas Castle lit up in lights. It’s also home to the Goofy Challenge and the Dopey Challenge where guests can put their endurance to the test and take part in multiple RunDisney events over the entire weekend.
Runners this year can celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Marathon in style with Mickey and friends! Delight in an extraordinary race weekend—put your endurance through the paces, enjoy amazing entertainment and earn commemorative medals. Dare to test your limits? Try a multi-race challenge for the chance to earn even more medals. No matter your skill level, you’ll be a part of a community of fun-spirited runners—uniquely Disney!
Walt Disney World 5K
Date: January 5th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Marathon 5K includes the following benefits:
- 3.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 5K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World 10K
Date: January 6th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Marathon Weekend 10k includes the following benefits:
- 6.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 10K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World Half Marathon
Date: January 7th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Marathon Weekend Half Marathon includes the following benefits:
- 13.1 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World Marathon
Date: January 8th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 RunDisney Marathon includes the following benefits:
- 26.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
2023 Disney Princess Half Marathon Race Weekend Disney
The 2023 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend features events for all skill levels, coveted regal medals and Disney entertainment. Be inspired by some of your favorite Disney heroes to new heights of courage and kindness that propel you triumphantly to the finish line that ends with happily ever after!
The Disney Princess half marathon weekend includes a brand new sunrise Yoga, 5k, 10k, half-marathon, a Disney Fairy Tale Challenge (19.3 miles in two consecutive days), and kids’ runDisney races.
Plus if you complete both the Disney Princess Enchanted 10k and the Disney Princess Half Marathon, you’ll earn the impressive Disney Fairy Tale Challenge Medal, in addition to the half marathon and 10k finisher medals.
Disney Princess 5K
Date: February 24th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Princess 5K includes the following benefits:
- 3.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 5K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Disney Princess Enchanted 10K
Date: February 25th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Princess 10k includes the following benefits:
- 6.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 10K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Disney Princess Half Marathon
Date: February 26th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Princess half marathon includes the following benefits:
- 13.1 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Disney Fairy Tale Challenge
Date: February 24th – February 26th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Fairy Tale Challenge includes the following benefits:
- 10K and Half Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Resort, totaling 19.3 Miles
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 2 Finisher Medals and 1 Challenge medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- 3 Participant Shirts
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
2023 RunDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend
If you’ve been looking for a new and exciting running event, the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort is for you—because it’s a completely different experience every year! You never know what to expect, except that it’s going to be fun and distinctively runDisney. Best of all, it doesn’t matter if you just laced up your first pair of running shoes or you’re a runDisney veteran who’s been around the block—literally—a few hundred times. The runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend is as much about the smiles as it is about the miles. But one thing’s for sure, you won’t want to miss this year’s event, because—surprise!—it’s going to be a whole new theme next year.
Stay on track as you run along courses inspired by some of your favorite Pixar Pals, including Disney Pixar Cars 5K, Disney Pixar Monsters 10K and the Disney Pixar Toy Story 10-Miler.
Disney Pixar Cars 5K
Date: April 14th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: EPCOT Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Pixar Cars 5K includes the following benefits:
- 3.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 5K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Disney Pixar Monsters 10K
Date: April 15th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: EPCOT Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Disney Pixar Monsters 10k includes the following benefits:
- 6.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 10K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Twilight Tower of Terror 10-Miler
Date: April 16th, 2023
Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: EPCOT Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 Pixar Toy Story 10-Miler includes the following benefits:
- 13.1 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
runDisney Springtime Surprise Challenge
Date: April 14th – 16th
Start Time: Various start times
Eastern Time
Location: EPCOT Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The 2023 runDisney Springtime Surprise Challenge includes the following benefits:
- 10K and Half Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Resort, totaling 19.3 Miles
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 2 Finisher Medals and 1 Challenge medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- 3 Participant Shirts
- Personalized Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
RunDisney Registration Tips
Runners can register for a RunDisney 2023 event online. Registration includes a shirt, race bib, and medal upon completion of the event. Once your runDisney registration has been processed, you’ll receive a confirmation email. You cannot transfer your registration between individuals, between event weekends, or to events that have reached capacity or are sold out.
We always recommend signing up for RunDisney events held in the parks as soon as possible. The reason being is many of the popular events such as the RunDisney 5ks, Kids events, and RunDisney half marathons will sell out. Be sure to sign up for our RunDisney newsletter or join our facebook group to stay up to date on all Walt Disney running events.
And, one last important note…theme park tickets must be purchased separately from race registration if you do plan on visiting the parks after! However a theme park ticket is NOT needed to participate in a runDisney race.
Virtual RunDisney Events
As discussed Disney has added virtual RunDisney races to all race weekends coming up. When runDisney events are listed as “virtual,” this means that it is a running event you can do on your own time at a location of your choice. So, your Disney marathon course can literally be around your neighborhood. Although standing outside your house is very different from standing at the Disney marathon start line at Epcot, it’s still very rewarding knowing you’re participating in something magical, and achieving your fitness goals!
Once you register, you’ll need to finish the race distance in any interval or pace within the completion timeframe designated. Afterwards, you’ll receive your virtual race medal in the mail. Runners track their own runDisney race times and completion based on the “honor system.” Once you complete your run, submit your finish time online and download your race certificate. If you’re wondering how to submit proof of time for runDisney, visit runDisney.com for more information.
Sample Run Disney Half Marathon Course
For non-virtual events, which will absolutely be held again in future years, the runDisney half marathon course map and other course maps can be found online.
What Are The Run Disney Pace Requirements?
So what are the RunDisney pace requirements? Well every runDisney weekend event race has pacing requirements. Specific pacing requirements can be found on each race page, for example, Dopey Challenge pacing requirements will be under that event page, and so on.
Walkers are definitely welcome and encouraged in a runDisney event. You just have to maintain the minimum-pacing requirement for the race you’re participating in when walking Disney half marathon and other events. If you fall short at the non-virtual events, don’t worry…a shuttle will pick you up.
Is There Run Disney Transportation To Race Day?
Disney transportation is only available for guests staying in a hotel at a Disney Resort, Shades of Green, or Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Check with your individual resort for their transportation options. And when parking for Disney marathon, arrive to the parking lot as early as possible!
RunDisney Blog Training
RunDisney offers training programs for beginners and experts alike from its trainer Jeff Galloway, a world-class athlete who competed at the 1972 Olympic games in the 10,000-meter event. Training will be challenging, but gratifying, and it’s very necessary especially if you want to compete in the longer races. Here are a few pointers that runDisney has shared to help you get a head start.
“Run, Walk, Run Method”: Shifting between walking and running extends endurance and helps runners avoid injuries, so taking short walk breaks early on and regularly will help greatly.
Proper Running Form: While there’s no single best way to run for everyone, certain fundamentals will help avoid injuries, including maintain a quick, short stride, keeping knees in lines, and keeping arms and hands relaxed and in rhythm with your feet.
Running In The Dark: As you train, and for running at night in general, you should always wear reflective gear and even a headlamp. Try to run in well-lit areas, and if your running route is roadside, run facing traffic so YOU can see what’s coming.
Before Race Day: Enhance your race day experiencing by starting to prep two days in advance. Drink plenty of water, eat easily digestible snacks throughout the day, and rest.
RunDisney Races Warm-Up/Cool-Down
The recommendation is to warm up 40 to 50 minutes before the race. You can even start in the parking lot if you’d like. After the race, it’s best to keep walking for at least half a mile to avoid cramping up. And don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids!
How to Sign Up for runDisney 2023?
It is actually quite simple to register for runDisney 2023, and can be done online. All you have to do is go to the runDisney website and find the Disney runs you want to register for. You will have to wait for registration to open, but don’t wait long, as the spots sell out quick for the races. So, make sure you mark your calendar and you’re ready to go when the registration date opens for your run Disney 2023 run!
Related post: Your Complete Guide to RunDisney 5K Races
RunDisney FAQ
How to Volunteer for Disney Marathon?
Volunteers are pivotal in the runDisney races being successful. Each season, nearly 15,000 volunteers are needed, helping with items such as bib pick-up to race day operations. Register to volunteer here: www.volunteerambassadorteam.com.
How Much is the Disney Half Marathon?
Depending on the options you choose, pricing for a runDisney half-marathon can range from $180-$225. Specific pricing can be found at runDisney.com.
What is the Best Hotel for Disney Marathon?
Disney transportation is only available for guests staying in a hotel at a Disney Resort, so we recommend staying at any Disney resort to utilize this. As far as choosing which hotel is right for you, check out our complete guide to planning a Disney trip here!
Does The Disney Marathon Sell Out?
Honestly, yes. From personal experience, we’ve seen these events sell out very quickly. That’s why it benefits to be able to register early. See annual passholder info below:
Are there RunDisney Annual Passholder Discounts?
One benefit of being an Annual Passholder is that you can register early—before registration opens to the general public—and secure your spot in advance for select runDisney events. To be eligible for runDisney offers, Annual Passholders must be at least 18 and must register through the special Passholder link available online.
Can you rake Disney Run Pictures?
At the non-virtual events, all runDisney race pictures taken by photographers will be linked to your bib number. You do not need to stop and collect PhotoPass Cards or link the pics to your MagicBand. You can view and purchase your photos online or on the My Disney Experience app and they should be available within 48 hours of your racing event. And if you order run Disney Memory Maker, you’ll get unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass photos and videos from your event for just one price. To link your race photos to your Disney account, use your run Disney sign in at DisneyWorld.com/PhotoPass
For even more updated information, check out the runDisney blog, found online.
When is the Disney Marathon?
The Walt Disney World marathon will be held on January 9th 2023. It’s important to note that Walt Disney World marathon weekend will be between January 5th and January 9th.
When is the Best Time to Visit Disney World?
Our Disney Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks and purchase Discount Disney World Tickets! We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature.
We also break down the best time to visit Disney World based on specific times of the year and special events. This will help you purchase some really cheap Disney World tickets!
If you’re brand new to Disney vacation planning we recommend our Walt Disney World Planning Page! Learn more about Disney hotels by reading our Walt Disney World Hotels Review page.
Last but not least if you’re also planning a trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out the best time to visit Universal Studios and our Universal Orlando Tickets! All Park Prodigy Universal Orlando tickets come with Universal Studios Early Park Admission.
Are you planning on visiting Walt Disney World? Or have you visited in the past? Would you like to share your experiences and tips? Do you have any questions for The Park Prodigy? Hearing your feedback and helping with your questions is not only our goal but will help other readers! Please leave your thoughts and questions in the comments!
