Every year Walt Disney World hosts runners from all over the world that take part in runDisney events across Disney Parks. But you don’t have to be a champion runner to get in on the action. With runs for every level of runner, kids, and even virtual opportunities, here’s everything to know about runDisney in 2021.
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runDisney Events Dates 2021
While we still have runDisney events happening in 2020, so much has changed due to the pandemic! So we thought we’d get excited about 2021 instead! The major races every year include a variety of race lengths and themes. The main race every year happens at Marathon Weekend and encompasses a week of runs and events. Of course, if you’d rather revel in royalty, the Disney Princess Half-Marathon has a little more glitz and glamour, seen in specially designed Dooney and Bourke Bags, medals, and merchandise. And for Star Wars fans, the Rival Run happens every spring, complete with special events, and Star Wars-themed merchandise. Here are the dates for the main marathon events in 2021
Jan 6- 10, 2021 Disney Marathon Weekend– VIRTUAL
Feb 18- 21, 2021 Disney Princess Half Marathon– VIRTUAL
Apr 15-18, 2021 Star Wars Rival Run – VIRTUAL
Jun 1- Aug 31, 2021 runDisney Virtual Series – VIRTUAL
runDisney Marathon Registration
- Due to the high demand for runDisney events, you must register on runDisney to attend.
- Create a Disney account
- Check the runDisney website for the day your race is open for registration.
- Registration Opens at 10 am EST/ 7 am PST.
- Be sure to have all runners’ information if registering multiple people.
- Most races involve a Virtual Queue that will open at 9:30 am on the website.
- You’ll be placed in a “virtual waiting room” and when it’s your turn add the items to your cart and checkout.
- Registration for runDisney events often sells out in minutes!
How to Register for a runDisney Marathon
Just like any event where there is a virtual queue it is best to know the Date of Registration and be Signed-In to your Disney Account ahead of time. This year’s runDisney Virtual Marathon features The Lion King. Registrations opens on April 8th at 10 AM EST.
runDisney Family Events
If you think this event is just for experienced runners, think again! There’s something for all ages and even spectators get to be part of the action when they grab a ChEar package that gets them close to the finish line.
Kids Dashes
- 12 months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers
- 1-4 years old – 100-Meter Dash
- 5-8 years old – 200-Meter Dash
One Mile Run
Children ages 4 to 13 years old
Walt Disney World 5K
5 years of age ( and must be able to complete the 5K on their own)
Walt Disney World 10K
10 years of age or older
Walt Disney World Half Marathon
14 years of age or older
Walt Disney World Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge and Dopey Challenge
18 years and older
runDisney Marathon Changes for 2021
Runners attending events in 2021 will tackle courses inside Epcot and Blizzard Beach Water Park. This is a major change from previous years where much of the time was spent outside the parks and on roads. So we’re excited to see more in-park courses.
The Marathon starts a half-hour earlier this year, at 5:00 AM.
Runners will get access to a new outdoor exclusive area which includes a place to take photos, pick up gear, stretch, and recover.
Spectators can get closer to the finish line and action with a ChEAR Squad package. This package will offer access to the finish line and a prime viewing spot in Magic Kingdom.
runDisney Annual Races
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Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend- First weekend in November
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Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon- January through March
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Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend- Second weekend in January
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Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend- Third weekend in February
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Star Wars Rival Run Weekend- Third weekend in April
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runDisney Virtual Series- Summer
runDisney Training Programs
Are you a beginner runner, or just want a great training program? You can grab all of the runDisney Programs crafted by former Olympian and runDisney trainer Jeff Galloway to help get you in shape for your run. Grab the runDisney Training Programs for download.
runDisney Marathon Medals
One of the most exciting parts of a runDisney event is crossing the finish line and getting your official Disney Marathon Medal.
runDisney Merchandise
You can grab special merchandise at shopDisney.com or at Disney Parks. But, if you want to get a little creative, you can also DIY your own gear courtesy of runDisney. Grab the tips and instructions to make your very own Hades “Feel the Burn” t-shirt so you can make sure you are dressed for your next runDisney event.
runDisney Virtual Marathons
Can’t make it to Walt Disney World during runDisney events? No worries! You can register for a Virtual Run, run on your own, track your time and collect your medal. It’s that simple, and a great way to get started! 2021 has one virtual event open for registration. Know that these do sell out, so grab your spot if interested.
- Jan 1- 31 Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon
- Jun 1- Aug 31 runDisney Virtual Series
Everything to know about runDisney Events in 2021
While you may not think of Walt Disney World as an obvious place to stage a marathon, adding a runDisney event to your next Disney Vacation may be a great way to stay on track with your fitness goals, while still enjoying the magic! And since there is something for every age, even babies, there’s no reason not to get the whole family involved!
