Everything You Need to Know About Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend 2026
Are you ready to combine your love for running with the magic of Walt Disney World? The runDisney Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend 2026 promises an unforgettable adventure for runners of all levels. Whether you’re aiming for your first 5K or the legendary Dopey Challenge, this event is the ultimate blend of fitness, fun, and Disney enchantment.
What is the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend?
Taking place every January (the next race weekend is January 7-January 11, 2026), the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is the crown jewel of the runDisney race calendar. Runners from around the world gather at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, to participate in a series of races that wind through the theme parks, past iconic landmarks, and alongside beloved Disney characters.
Race Events Overview
The 2026 event weekend features a variety of races, making it accessible and exciting for everyone:
Walt Disney World 5K: A friendly 3.1-mile course perfect for families and beginners. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and characters of the EPCOT in a relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere. The race is untimed.
Walt Disney World 10K: Step up the challenge with a 6.2-mile race that offers more time on the course and more Disney magic along the way.
Walt Disney World Half Marathon: Take on 13.1 miles through multiple parks, with on-course entertainment and plenty of photo opportunities with your favorite characters.
Walt Disney World Marathon: The main event! Experience all four theme parks (and a very long stint in the Blizzard Beach parking lot) over 26.2 miles, including unique backstage access and an electric finish line celebration.
The Exciting runDisney Challenges
For those ready to push their limits (and collect extra medals), runDisney offers two signature multi-race challenges:
Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge: Complete the Half Marathon on Saturday and the Full Marathon on Sunday—39.3 miles in two days! Finishers earn special challenge medals in addition to their race medals.
Dopey Challenge: The ultimate test for the most dedicated Disney runners. Conquer all four races (5K, 10K, Half, and Full Marathon) over four consecutive days—a total of 48.6 magical miles! Finishers receive six medals: one for each race, plus Goofy and Dopey Challenge medals.
The runDisney Health & Fitness Expo
Every participant’s journey begins at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. This is your headquarters for:
Race bib and packet pick-up
Official runDisney merchandise
The latest in running gear, apparel, and nutrition
Expert panels and photo ops
The Expo is a destination in itself, buzzing with excitement and energy as runners prepare for their magical miles.
Why Book Your Marathon Weekend with TravelByPhilip?
As a travel advisor specializing in theme park and cruise vacations, I offer white-glove planning for your entire Marathon Weekend experience and have participated in multiple runDisney events, including Marathon Weekend, twice. Here’s how I can help you make the most of this incredible event:
Personalized Itineraries: From race-day logistics to post-race park adventures, I tailor every detail to your preferences.
VIP Perks & Benefits: Access to exclusive hotel upgrades, daily breakfast, extended check-in/out, and resort credits at select properties.
Stress-Free Planning: I handle everything—accommodations, park tickets, dining, transportation, and more—so you can focus on the miles and the memories.
Concierge Support: Fast, responsive service and expert advice every step of the way.
Ready to Run the Most Magical Miles on Earth?
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is a bucket-list event for runners and Disney fans alike. Spots fill up quickly, and planning ahead is key to a seamless, stress-free experience, and every mile truly is MAGICAL! With Disney films being shown along the course on giant screens, music being played, spectator support along the route and character photo ops on the course, the experience is so much fun.
Registration spots are sold out for the 2026 event, however additional spots may become available throughout the remainder of the year, so keep checking at www.rundisney.com.
Charity entries may still be available if you’re able to fundraise to support some amazing causes. More information regarding registered charities can be found online at www.rundisney.com.
TravelByPhilip is a full service and certified Disney Travel Vacation Planner who has completed the Walt Disney World Marathon twice, along with the 2024 Coast to Coast Challenge in Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts.
Let’s start planning your 2026 runDisney adventure!
Contact me today to secure your spot and unlock exclusive perks for an unforgettable race weekend at Walt Disney World.
