runDisney Events and Registration FAQ

[rteetz]

Hello and welcome to the runDisney Events and Registration FAQ! A lot of people have talked about wanting or needing an FAQ thread so I figured we could start one. One of the great things about FAQ threads is the participation, and I encourage everyone that has questions, comments, and answers to participate in this thread.

runDisney Events for 2020

1. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend January 8-12, 2020
2. Princess Half Marathon Weekend February 20-23, 2020
3. Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon Weekend April 16-19th, 2020 CANCELLED
4. Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon Jan. 3rd - March 31st, 2020 ON SALE NOW
5. Disneyland Paris Half Marathon Weekend September 24-27th, 2020 PACKAGES ON SALE NOW
6. Disneyland Paris Princess Run Weekend May 8-10th, 2020 CANCELLED
7. Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend November 5-8th, 2020 ON SALE NOW
8. runDisney Virtual Running Shorts Summer 2020 ON SALE NOW

runDisney Events for 2021

1. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend January 6-10th, 2021 ON SALE NOW
2. Princess Half Marathon Weekend February 18th-21st, 2021 ON SALE June 16th, 2020
3. Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon Weekend April 15th-18th, 2021 ON SALE August 11th, 2020
4. Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon Jan. - March 2021 ON SALE August 11th, 2020

INFORMATION REGARDING 2020 STAR WARS RIVAL RUN WEEKEND
With circumstances continuing to change rapidly around the globe, we are making critical and timely decisions based on guidance from local, national and international health agencies. As we have shared before, we are basing our decisions on the safety and well-being of our Cast Members and our Guests, since there is nothing more important than that.

In an abundance of caution, the 2020 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend will be cancelled. In addition, because our runDisney races require the presence of local medical professionals and first responders to monitor and treat runners, this will free up those resources for more critical needs during this time.

All participants for the Star Wars Rival Run Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort who purchased their registrations on runDisney.com will receive a refund for their race registration.

Star Wars Rival Run Weekend:
Runners registered for the 2020 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort will receive a refund back to their original form of payment for the following:

• Race registration (Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, Rival Run Challenge)
• Commemorative merchandise
• ChEAR Squad
• Processing fee

Guests who’ve already received a partial refund will receive their remaining balance to a Disney gift card.

Refund Timing:
Refunds from runDisney can be expected to be processed in four to six weeks. If you haven’t received your refund after six weeks, please visit the “contact us” section on runDisney.com.

Alternate booking methods:
Runners who’ve booked through a charity or tour operator should reach out directly to that organization. Runners who’ve booked through the Walt Disney Travel Company may call them at 407-939-4786 (407-939-IRUN) for available refund options.

On-sale dates:
On-sale dates for future runDisney races will be adjusted, and we will have more information to share soon.

runDisney Kessel Run Challenge:

Runners registered for the runDisney Kessel Run Challenge with an international address or APO address will receive a full refund back to their original form of payment, and they will not receive a race medal for the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon or the runDisney Kessel Run Challenge.

Runners registered for the runDisney Kessel Run Challenge with a U.S. address will receive their Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon medal in the mail. The registration fee for the Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon or Star Wars Rival Run Challenge will be refunded back to their original form of payment, minus the cost of the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon ($59), and they will not receive a race medal for the runDisney Kessel Run Challenge.

UPDATE ON DISNEYLAND RACES FOR 2018 AND BEYOND
"We have heard from many of you over the past few months regarding registration for runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort. We greatly appreciate your loyalty and dedication to our runDisney race events and want to share the following update with you.

Given the level of construction to support the ongoing Disneyland Resort expansion, we have been working hard to determine how we can continue providing our West Coast participants with the best possible runDisney experience, which is designed around the ability to run throughout our resorts while enjoying entertainment offerings and characters.

After careful consideration and weighing all possibilities, we have made the very difficult decision to place all runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort on hiatus beginning in 2018. This includes the associated Coast to Coast Race Challenges.

Anyone who has registered for one of these races will be contacted directly by runDisney today by email and will receive a full refund for registration fees and for any commemorative items they may have purchased.

While news of this hiatus is sad to share, we are so thankful for the magic and memories you have helped create at our race weekends through the years. We look forward to hosting the upcoming Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort November 9-12, and we hope to see many of you there.

We encourage runners to continue to visit runDisney.com for other race opportunities. A full schedule of races at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Paris are currently still being offered, in addition to our virtual race series. Guests with questions can contact rundisney@disneysports.com."

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend ON SALE TBA

I know it's a long way off... but.. 2018 Dopey
Marathon Weekend 2018
Marathon Weekend 2019
Official Dopey 2019 Thread
Marathon Weekend 2020
Dopey 2020.....
Marathon Weekend 2021

Considered the Granddaddy of them all this is runDisney's only weekend that includes a full marathon.

Individual events for this weekend
Full Marathon
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m, mickey mile)

Challenges
Goofy Challenge (Half+Full Marathon)
Dopey Challenge (5K+10K+Half+Full Marathon)

Expo
At WDW Marathon Weekend the race expo takes place for 4 days. The expo is where you will need to pick up your race number/bib, your shirt, and gEAR bag. The expo is also where you will buy official race weekend merchandise, and get to look at several dozen other vendors throughout ESPN Wide World of Sports. Transportation is available to and from the expo if staying at a Disney resort.

Race Retreat
Race Retreat is a VIP experience for runners. You get early access to the race weekend expo, private hospitality tent near the finish line, pre-race food and drinks, private restrooms, Disney character experiences, recovery zone, catered post race brunch, commemorative socks and towel.

Star Wars Half Marathon-Light Side On Indefinite Hiatus

Official 2017 Star Wars - Light Side Half Marathon Weekend (Jan 12th - 15th, 2017)

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m)

Resistance Challenge
Must run 10K and Half Marathon

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend

2017 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
2018 Princess Half Marathon
2019 Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Princess Weekend 2020
Princess Weekend 2021

This race weekend is centered around female runners even though males can still participate. A woman must win the race.

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper dash, 100m, 200m, 400m, one mile)

Fairytale Challenge
Must run 10K and Half Marathon

*Runner that run the half marathon during Princess weekend and Tinker Bell weekend are eligible for a pink coast to coast medal*

Expo
This expo takes place for 3 days. The expo is where you will need to pick up your race number/bib, your shirt, and gEAR bag. You can also buy official race weekend merchandise and look/buy from several dozen other vendors. This expo takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex and transportation is provided to and from the expo for guests staying at Disney resorts.


Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon Weekend 2020 CANCELLED

Official Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend - The Dark Side 2017
Official 2018 Star Wars Dark Side Weekend
Official 2019 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend
Official 2020 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend - CANCELED
Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend 2021 (April 15-18, 2021)

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m, one mile)

Rival Run Challenge
Must run in 10K and Half marathon

Kessel Run Challenge
Runners must complete the Virtual Half Marathon and WDW Rival Run Half Marathon to be eligible for this special Kessel challenge medal.

Expo
This expo takes place for 3 days. The expo is where you will need to pick up your race number/bib, your shirt, and gEAR bag. You can also buy official race weekend merchandise and look/buy from several dozen other vendors. This expo takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex and transportation is provided to and from the expo for guests staying at Disney resorts.

Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend On Indefinite hiatus

Official 2017 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend!
This is a female centered race weekend in Disneyland, males are still able to participate.

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m)

Pixie Dust Challenge
Must run in 10K and Half Marathon

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend On Indefinite hiatus

Official 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Thread
This race weekend takes place at Disneyland and is considered Disneyland's main event.

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m)

Disneyland Double Dare
Must run in the 10K and Half Marathon (Note- Used to be Dumbo Double Dare but registration excluded Dumbo)

Disneyland Paris Half Marathon Weekend

Disneyland Paris Half 2017
Disneyland Paris Half Marathon Weekend 2018
2019 Disneyland Paris Marathon Weekend

This race weekend takes place in Disneyland Paris and is an inaugural race in 2016.

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (100m, 200m, 400m, 1km, 2km)

31K Challenge Half+10K
36K Challenge 5K+10K+Half

Castle to Chateau Challenge
This special challenge is for those that run in the Disneyland Paris Half Marathon and a Disney Half Marathon in the US in the same Calendar year.

Expo
This expo takes place for 3 days. The expo is where you will need to pick up your race number/bib, your shirt, and gEAR bag. You can also buy official race weekend merchandise and look/buy from several dozen other vendors. This expo takes place at the Disney Events Arena.

2017 race info
https://news.disneylandparis.com/blog/2016/09/29/rundisney2017/

Disneyland Paris Princess Run

New for 2020, Disneyland Paris is adding a family oriented weekend with an 8K, 5K, and Kids races that will run from May 8th - May 10th, 2020. This new race weekend will be princess themed. The 8K has an age requirement of 9, the 5K participants must be 5 years old or older. There is also a Cinderella Challenge. Registration is set to open in October 2019.

Races
Kids Races
5K
8K
Cinderella Challenge (5K+8K)

Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend ON SALE NOW

Official Wine and Dine 2017 thread
Official Wine & Dine 2018
Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend 2019
Official Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend 2020

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper Dash, 100m, 200m, 400m, 1-miler)

Two Course Challenge
Must run in 10K and Half Marathon

Expo
This expo takes place for 3 days. The expo is where you will need to pick up your race number/bib, your shirt, and gEAR bag. You can also buy official race weekend merchandise and look/buy from several dozen other vendors. This expo takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex and transportation is provided to and from the expo for guests staying at Disney resorts.

Post Race Party
A special post race party happens during this race weekend at night at Epcot from 10PM-1AM. It takes place the same day of the Half Marathon, and it is included in your race registration. Rides are open as well as character meet and greets, and live entertainment.

Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend ON INDEFINITE HIATUS

Individual events for this weekend
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids races (Diaper dash, 100m, 200m, 400m)

Infinity Gauntlet Challenge
Must run in 10K and Half Marathon


Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon ON SALE NOW

After the Disneyland races were put on hiatus runDisney announced a new virtual Star Wars Half Marathon. runDisney does not make you run the half marathon in order to receive the medal and you can split up the half marathon over multiple runs. In addition to the half you can participate in the Kessel Run Challenge by running both the virtual half and the Dark Side half in April at Walt Disney World. You receive a finishers medal, virtual race bib, and finishers certificate.

Individual Events
Half Marathon

Kessel Run Challenge
Must run Half Marathon virtually and Dark Side Half Marathon

runDisney Virtual Running Shorts

Starting in 2016 runDisney began offering a 5K virtual running series. Runners can choose to just run one month (June, July, or August) or run the entire series. runDisney does not require runners to submit their times for their virtual races. Those who sign up for the series get all three medals for each month plus a medal for the series.

runDisney Virtual Shorts - An *Incredible* Year 3
2020 runDisney Virtual Summer Series

Individual Events
June 5K
July 5K
August 5K

Virtual Running Shorts Series
All three virtual 5K races

Virtual Running Shorts themes
2016: Mickey Mouse
2017: Pluto
2018: The Incredibles
2019: Marvel
2020: Disney Parks

RunDisney anniversary races
Thanks to @Anisum for the list

WDW Marathon Weekend:
WDW 5k - 2023 (30th)
WDW 10k - 2023 (10th)
WDW Half - 2022 (25th)
WDW Marathon - 2023 (30th)
Goofy Challenge - 2025 (20th)
Dopey Challenge - 2023 (10th)
Castaway Cay Challenge 2024 (10th)

Princess Weekend:
Royal Family/Princess 5k - 2023 (15th)
Enchanted 10k - 2023 (10th)
Princess Half - 2023 (15th)
Disney Fairy Tale Challenge - 2023 (10th)

Wine & Dine Weekend:
Mickey's Jingle Jungle/Holiday/Fall Feast 5k - 2024 (15th)
Wine & Dine 10k - 2020 (5th)
Wine & Dine Half - 2024 (15th)
Two Course Challenge -2020 (5th)

Star Wars Rival Run:
Half/5k/10k/Challenge - 2020 (5th)
Kessel Run - 2020 (5th) - 2020 RACE WEEKEND CANCELLED

DL Paris:
Disneyland Paris 5k - 2020 (5th)
Disneyland Paris Half - 2020 (5th)
Castle to Chateau - 2020 (5th)

Disneyland Paris Princess Run:
5K - 2025 (5th)
8K - 2025 (5th)

 

[rteetz]

Table of Contents

1. First Post with each race weekend
2. Registration
3. Transportation
4. Castaway Cay 5k/Challenge
5. Spectators
6. Race Weekend Hotels
7. The Expo
8. Travel Agencies and Charity Registration
9. Other FAQs
10. Volunteering

 

[rteetz]

Registration

Race registration is considered by some almost as hard as the race itself. In some cases races sell out within an hour. In other cases races will be open for months before they sell out.

Registration tips
Registering for a runDisney Race

Registration for all runDisney events goes live on a Tuesday at 10AM EST. If you are planning to register for a race it is recommended to be on a computer a few minutes before registration goes live in case the race you want to register for is popular and might sell out. Links for the events will be located on runDisney.com at the time registration goes live.

All runDisney events will now require guests to have a valid Disney account. You can create a Disney account directly from the registration form or runDisney.com.

Can you register for more than one event at a time?
Yes you can register for more than one event at a time. If you are registering for a challenge you DO NOT sign up for each race individually, you sign up for the challenge and that gets you into those challenge events all at once.

Can I register more than one person at a time?
As of 2019 race registration you will be able to register more than one person at a time for runDisney races.

What if the race is on hold?
That means they are not letting anymore people in at the moment to register. It DOES NOT mean the race is sold out. Keep watching that specific race as it may go back on sale at anytime.

What are my options if a race is sold out?
If you don't get in before a race sells out there are two options for people. Registering with a Travel Agent or with a Charity group. Specific for these two things will be discussed in a later post.

How do I know if I am registered?
Once your registration has been processed, you will receive a confirmation email. You will also be able to view/manage your runDisney registration information from your runDisney profile.

What will happen to my past Active.com runDisney events?
You will still be able to reference your past runDisney registrations in Active.

Can I use a Disney Gift Card or Rewards Card as payment?
Yes! Now, you can use either a credit card, Disney Rewards card or a Disney gift card to pay for your registrations. Please keep in mind that the gift card must have sufficient balance to cover the cost of registrations, products and any donations being made.

Can I split my payment between multiple forms of payment?
Currently, you can only use one type of payment and it must have sufficient balance to cover the entire transaction.

If someone else registered me, can I manage my own registration?
We can help you with that. You will need to have the individual who paid for the registration send an email (and cc: second registrant who wants to manage their own registration) via the Contact Us section on runDisney.com giving permission to unlink the registrations. Please include the specific event category and participant information in the email. You will then be notified by Technical Support when complete or if they have any questions regarding the request.

How do I manage my profile?
You can manage your profile when logged into your Participant Account. When inside your account, you can select "Your Registrations." You can select "Edit Registration." From here you can update personal items such as name, gender, t-shirt size, address, phone number, and emergency contact. You can also opt in/out of receiving event updates and results via text. Keep in mind when editing registration information here it does not update your Disney account information. To update your Disney account information click on "My Account."

Important Note- Active.com used to be Disney's registration site. As of 2019 race registration that is no longer the case.

Race Weekend Pricing and Status

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend 2021 ON SALE NOW
Dopey Challenge $590 (no increase) SOLD OUT
Goofy Challenge $385 (no price increase) SOLD OUT
Full Marathon $190 (no increase) SOLD OUT
Half Marathon $188 (no increase) SOLD OUT
10K $129 ($2 increase) SOLD OUT
5K $89 ($2 increase) SOLD OUT
Kids Dashes $20 Pending
Kids one miler $30 Pending
Castaway Cay Challenge $80 (no increase)

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2021 ON SALE June 16th
Fairy tale Challenge $350 ($5 increase)
Half Marathon $205 ($6 increase)
10K $129 ($2 increase)
5K $89 ($2 increase)
Kids Races $20-30

Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon 2021 ON SALE August 11th
Dark Side Challenge $330 ($10 price increase)
Half Marathon $185
10K $127 ($7 increase)
5K $87 ($7 increase)
Kids Races $20-30
Kessel Run Challenge $254-$399

Disneyland Paris Half Marathon Weekend 2020 ON SALE NOW
36K Challenge
31K Challenge
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids Races

Disneyland Paris Princess Weekend 2020 CANCELLED
Cinderella Challenge
8K
5K
Kids Races

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend 2020 ON SALE NOW
Two Course Challenge $352 ($5 increase) SOLD OUT
Half Marathon $208 ($3 increase) SOLD OUT
10K $129 ($2 increase) SOLD OUT
5K $89 ($4 increase) SOLD OUT
Kids Races $20-30

Historical Prices

2013 Marathon Weekend
Goofy Challenge $320
Marathon $150
Half Marathon $150
5K

2014 Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $495
Goofy Challenge $340
Marathon $160
Half Marathon $160
10K $95
5K $60
Kids races $15-$30

2014 Princess Weekend
Glass Slipper Challenge $270
Half Marathon $160
10K $95
5K $60
Kids races $15-$30

2014 Disneyland Half Weekend
Dumbo Double Dare $320
Half Marathon $195
10K $105
5K $70
Kids races $20

2014 Tinkerbell Half Weekend
Half Marathon $175
10K $95
5K $70
Kids races $20

2014 Wine & Dine Half Weekend
Half Marathon $185
5K $55
Kids races $15-$30

2014 Avengers Half Weekend
Half Marathon $195
5K $70
Kids races $20

2014 Twilight Zone Tower 10-miler
10-miler $145
5K $55
Kids races $15-$30

2014 Expedition Everest Challenge
Individual registration $120
Team registration $230
Kids races $20

2015 Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $530
Goofy Challenge $360
Marathon $170
Half Marathon $170
10K $105
5K $60
Kids races $15-$30

2015 Princess Weekend
Glass Slipper Challenge $295
Half Marathon $170
10K $105
5K $60
Kids races $15-$30

2015 Disneyland Half Weekend
Dumbo Double Dare $330
Half Marathon $199
10K $110
5K $75
Kids races $20

2015 Tinkerbell Half Weekend
Pixie Dust Challenge $320
Half Marathon $195
10K $105
5K $70
Kids races $20

2015 Wine & Dine Half Weekend
Half Marathon $190
5K $65
Kids races $15-$30

2015 Light Side Half Weekend
Rebel Challenge $320
Half Marathon $195
10K $105
5K $70
Kids races $20

2015 Super Heroes Half Weekend
Infinity Gauntlet Challenge $330
Half Marathon $199
10K $110
5K $75
Kids races $20

2015 Expedition Everest Challenge
Individual registration $125
Team registration $240

2016 Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $550
Goofy Challenge $360
Marathon $175
Half Marathon $175
10K $110
5K $65

2017 Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $560
Goofy Challenge $365
Marathon $180
Half Marathon $180
10K $110
5K $65
Kids races Dashes- $20 Mile- $30

2017 Princess Weekend
Glass Slipper Challenge $320
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $75
Kids races $20-30

2017 Star Wars Darkside Weekend
Dark Side Challenge $320
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2017 Tinker Bell Weekend
Pixie Dust Challenge $330
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2017 Disneyland Paris Weekend
Challenge ?
Half Marathon $77.97
10K $57.18
5K $36.39
Kids Races $12.48

2017 Disneyland Half Weekend
Double Dare Challenge $330
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20

2017 Wine and Dine Weekend
Two Course Challenge $340
Half Marathon $199
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2017 Super Heroes Weekend
Infinity Gauntlet Challenge $330
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20

2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $560 (No price increase)
Goofy Challenge $365 (No price increase)
Full Marathon $185 ($5 increase)
Half Marathon $185 ($5 increase)
10K $120 ($10 increase)
5K $80 ($15 increase)
Kids Dashes $20
Kids one miler $30
Castaway Cay Challenge $70

2018 Lightside Weekend Race Weekend Cancelled
Resistance Challenge $330
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids races $20
VIP Experiences
Lounge $199
Viewing Party $79

2018 Princess Weekend
Fairy tale Challenge $340
Half Marathon $110
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2018 Darkside Weekend
Dark Side Challenge $330 ($10 price increase)
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2018 Tinkerbell Weekend Race Weekend cancelled
Pixie Dust Challenge $330
Half Marathon $185
10K $120
5K $80
Kids Races $20-30

2018 Disneyland Paris Weekend

2018 Wine and Dine Weekend
Two Course Challenge $345
Half Marathon $199
10K $125
5K $85
Kids Races $20-30

2019 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $585
Goofy Challenge $385
Full Marathon $188
Half Marathon $188
10K $125
5K $85 NEW Oswald theme replaces Pluto
Kids Dashes $20
Kids one miler $30
Castaway Cay Challenge $80

2019 Princess Weekend
Glass Slipper Challenge $345
Half Marathon $199
10K $125
5K $85

2019 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend
Kessel Run Challenge $257-$404
Rival Run Challenge $335
Half Marathon $188
10K $125
5K $85
Kids Races $20-$30

2019 Disneyland Paris Weekend
36K Challenge $198
31K Challenge $151
Half Marathon $77
10K $59
5K $40
Kids races $15

2019 Wine and Dine Weekend
Challenge $347
Half Marathon $205
10K $127
5K $85
Kids Races $20-30

2020 Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $590
Goofy Challenge $385
Marathon $190
Half Marathon $188
10K $127
5K $87
Kids Races $20-30
Castaway Challenge $80

2020 Princess Weekend
Fairy Tale Challenge $350
Half Marathon $205
10K $127
5K $87
Kids Races

2020 Star Wars Weekend
Rival Run Challenge $330
Kessel Run Challenge $245-$399
Half Marathon $185
10K $127
5K $87
Kids races $20-30

2020 Paris Weekend
36K Challenge
31K Challenge
Half Marathon
10K
5K
Kids Races

2020 Wine and Dine Weekend
Two Course Challenge $352
Half Marathon $208
10K $129
5K $89
Kids Races $20-30

2020 Paris Princess Weekend
Cinderella Challenge
8K
5K
Kids Races

2021 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
Dopey Challenge $590
Goofy Challenge $385
Marathon $190
Half Marathon $188
10K $129
5K $89
Kids Races $20-30
Castaway Challenge $80

2021 Princess Half Weekend
Fairy Tale Challenge $350
Half Marathon $205
10K $129
5K $89
Kids Races $20-30

Thanks to @opusone and @Ariel484 for help on this!

 

[rteetz]

Proof of Time

Requirements: required for runDisney half marathons if you expect to finish in less than 2:45 or the marathon if you expect to finish in less than 5:30 (not required for 5k or 10k's). Typically, the Proof of Time must be within two years of the runDisney race date you are registered for.
CHANGE FOR 2020 WINE AND DINE WEEKEND
Proof of Time is required for runners who expect to finish in less than 2:30 for a half marathon.

Race-specific dates: Each race has a specific proof of time deadline. These dates are listed below.

How to change: Can view by going to "View my registration" or change by going to "Edit registration information". You cannot edit the Proof of Time after the deadline has past.

Results website link: Link to the page where your results can be found online. runDisney has stated they want the race's main website link, but I think several folks put in the results link. I assume both are probably fine, but I would shy away from using a link to Athlinks or some other race results aggregator. I know in my experience the link to the results page works for the proof of time.

Time to provide: provide your actual 10k, 12k, 15k, 10 mile, half marathon or marathon race time (chip time, if applicable) of a certified race (USATF certification for U.S. races). Use your actual race time listed on the results website - DO NOT try to translate your time to the distance you will be running at Disney.

Best practices: enter your best proof of time after you register, then update afterwards if you improve it (this way you don't forget if you are unable to improve your POT before the deadline). Also take a picture or screenshot of your proof time page incase things go wrong. Your runDisney account allows you to go back in and edit your registrations.

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend deadline - October 20th, 2020
Princess Half Marathon Weekend deadline - November 17th, 2020
Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon Weekend deadline - January 21st, 2020
Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend deadline - August 4th, 2020

Transportation

Transportation during runDisney race weekends is a very common question between people here on the boards.

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
Transportation is provided to and from WDW Host resorts. During Marathon Weekend ALL WDW resorts are considered host resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin and Shades of Green are also considered host resorts. Runners can also drive to and from the races but you must allow yourself enough time before roads start to close for the races.

Buses start at 3:30AM for the 5K and 10K and 3AM for the Half and Full.

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Transportation is provided to and from WDW Host resorts. During Marathon Weekend ALL WDW resorts are considered host resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin and Shades of Green are also considered host resorts. Runners can also drive to and from the races but you must allow yourself enough time before roads start to close for the races.

Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon Weekend
Transportation is provided to and from WDW Host resorts. During Marathon Weekend ALL WDW resorts are considered host resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin and Shades of Green are also considered host resorts. Runners can also drive to and from the races but you must allow yourself enough time before roads start to close for the races.

Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Transportation is provided to and from WDW Host resorts. During Marathon Weekend ALL WDW resorts are considered host resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin and Shades of Green are also considered host resorts. Runners can also drive to and from the races but you must allow yourself enough time before roads start to close for the races.


For guests staying at monorail resorts during WDW race weekends, the monorail does run for pre race transportation for the half and full marathons. They also run post race as well as buses.

 

[rteetz]

Castaway Cay 5K/Challenge

Castaway Cay 5K
During most Disney cruises, guests on board are eligible to run in a 5K on Disney's private island Castaway Cay. This 3.1 mile course runs on the island in the morning and does have on course entertainment. Participants get a race shirt and a 5K rubber medallion.

Castaway Cay Challenge
During a 4 night Bahamian cruise following the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend you can run a 5K on Disney's private Island Castaway Cay. This 5K can earn you two additional medals. Special merchandise is also available. Runners receive, race shirt, 5K finisher medallion, challenge medal, post race refreshments, activities and special menu options onboard.

2018 Cost $70
2019 Cost $80
2020 Cost $80
2021 Cost $80

 

[rteetz]

Spectators

Spectators are allowed and encouraged in various spots during the races.

runDisney offers a ChEAR Squad package, there are two levels Gold and Platinum for WDW Marathon weekend, Princess weekend, and Wine & Dine.

Gold Package

• runDisney ChEAR Squad t-shirt, stadium blanket, and clapper
• Reserved seating near Cinderella's castle (first come first serve)
• Reserved Finish Line seating
• Hot and Cold beverages
• Private restrooms

Platinum Package

• All Gold amenities
• Entry into race retreat area

Wine & Dine Package $45 per person

• Waterproof Stadium Blanket
• Mickey Clappers
• Reserved Finish Line seating
• Private restrooms

ChEAR Squad for WDW Marathon Weekend 2019

• Platinum Package:
  • 1-Day Package (Half Marathon OR Marathon) – $120
  • 2-Day Package (Half Marathon AND Marathon) – $180
• Gold Package:
  • 1-Day Package (Half Marathon OR Marathon) – $65
  • 2-Day Package (Half Marathon AND Marathon) – $85

Spectators not looking to buy ChEAR squad can still view the race from certain areas along the courses. For longer races spectators can view inside the parks with valid park entry. Spectators can also view from several WDW resorts along the course. Spectators are allowed on Main Street before park opening without ticket media however those spectators can't stay in the park after it opens.

Runner Tracking is available for runners in the 10K, Half, and Full marathons. Updates can be sent during text or email.

During 5K and 10K races spectators can view the start and finish for no charge.

In Disneyland you can view runners along the streets and surrounding neighborhoods of Anaheim and in the Finish Line are.

Race Retreat

A VIP Race Retreat Package is the ultimate way for runners to add extra magic to race morning. Plus, Race Retreat is the perfect location to reunite with friends and family after the race.

Race Retreat VIP Packages include:

• Private Hospitality tent near the Finish Line, including live video feed from the race and access to live runner results
• Pre-race pastries and fruit, plus coffee, water and PowerAde
• Private restrooms, changing tents and bag check
• Disney character meet & greets
• Disney-catered post-race brunch
• Designated location to meet friends and family to celebrate your accomplishment*
• Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend keepsake
• Walt Disney World® Marathon – $120
• Walt Disney World® Half Marathon – $120
• Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge – $230
• Dopey Challenge – $230

Race Retreat became Runners Square in 2020

Runners Square benefits include:

• Special open-air, “finish-chute” location
• Pre-race continental breakfast
• Stretching green
• Exclusive starting line walk-out
• Dedicated “gEAR check” station and Port-O-Lets
• Celebratory Photo Moment and amenity item
• Commemorative treat and beverages

Runners Square packages*

• Disney 10K (only available during Princess, SW, and W&D) Package – $85
• Disney Half Marathon or Marathon Package – $85
• Disney Challenge Package (10K+Half or Half+Full) – $160

 

[rteetz]

Race Weekend Hotels

Disneyland

The Disneyland resort does not have specific race weekend hotels. There are 3 Disneyland Resort hotels that are Disney owned. All 3 hotel are within walking distance of race weekend events.

The Disneyland Hotel
The Grand Californian (DVC)
Paradise Pier Hotel

Disneyland also has dozens of offsite good neighbor hotels. These hotels range from higher deluxe options to lower economy options. Some of the hotels are within walking distance of race weekend events and others are not. The Anaheim Resort Transportation system does run between a lot of these hotels.

Walt Disney World

The Walt Disney World Resort has over 2 dozen onsite hotels that all have race weekend transportation. Several deluxe hotels have DVC (Disney Vacation Club) options.

The Grand Floridian (DVC)
The Contemporary (DVC)
The Polynesian Village (DVC)
Bay Lake Tower (DVC)
Pop Century
Caribbean Beach
Animal Kingdom Lodge (DVC)
Saratoga Springs (DVC)
Port Orleans Riverside
Port Orleans French Quarter
All-Star Music
All-Star Movies
All-Star Sports
Coronado Springs
Art of Animation
Wilderness Lodge (DVC)
The Yacht Club
The Beach Club (DVC)
The Boardwalk Inn (DVC)
Old Key West (DVC)
Ft. Wilderness
Riviera Resort (DVC)

The Swan and Dolphin are onsite hotels however they are not owned and operated by Disney. These two hotels DO have race weekend transportation. The same goes for the military family hotel Shades of Green, it is a RunDisney host resort.

For WDW race weekends all onsite Disney hotels and the Swan and Dolphin are considered race weekend hotels and do offer transportation to and from the expo and the races.

With the Walt Disney World resort, they utilize a system called MyMagic+. This system allows you to book advanced dining reservations 180 days in advance, book Fastpasses 60 days in advance, get customized magicbands that will be used for your room key, park ticket, and Fastpasses.

Walt Disney World and Disneyland both have resort specific apps. It is recommended to download these prior to your trip to the resort.

Annual Passholders do get to use MyMagic+ however can only book Fastpasses 30 days in advance instead of 60 days unless you are staying at a Disney resort.

Guests staying at offsite hotels also book Fastpasses at 30 days in advance rather than 60 days for onsite guests.

 

[rteetz]

The Expo

The runDisney Health and Fitness Expo is part of race weekend. The expo is where all runners must attend and pick up race number/bib, shirt, and gEAR bag. During the expo, you can check out the official runDisney Race Weekend merchandise, and get a peek at the latest in fitness apparel, footwear, sunglasses, gadgets, nutritional products. The expo also has a Speaker series that includes appearances

Walt Disney World race weekend expos take place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports

Disneyland race weekend expos take place at the Disneyland Hotel Exhibit Hall

WDW Marathon Weekend Expo
Wednesday, January 6th, 2021
Thursday, January 7th, 2021
Friday, January 8th, 2021
Saturday January 9th, 2021

Princess Half Marathon Weekend Expo
Thursday, February 18th, 2021
Friday, February 19th, 2021
Saturday, February 20th, 2021

Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon Weekend Expo
Thursday, April 16th, 2020
Friday, April 17th, 2020
Saturday, April 18th, 2020

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend Expo
Thursday, November 5th, 2020
Friday, November 6th, 2020
Saturday, November 7th, 2020




As of 2018 New Balance and runDisney are no longer partnering for Disney branded running shoes.

2017 New Balance runDisney Shoes
http://www.newbalance.com/rundisney/?searchSource=Disney

Info on the New Balance Expo booth virtual queue
http://www.nbvirtualqueue.com

 

[rteetz]

Travel Agencies and Charity registration

If you are unable to get in during registration there are two more options for runners.

The first is booking with a travel agency. Certain travel agencies have a deal with Disney where they sell vacation packages for race weekends. These packages often have to include race registration, hotel and park tickets. Sometimes that will vary between travel agencies though.

The second option is running for a charity. This usually means you have to raise a certain amount of money in order to run in the event. runDisney likes to partner with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society as a charity.

New this year (2019):
A two-night minimum hotel and theme park ticket package is required with all participation options. After joining our team, you will be introduced to an official Disney travel coordinator who will assist you with building a customized plan for your trip to Walt Disney World. You will be able to take advantage of special resort pricing for event weekend, add nights to your stay, arrange theme park tickets and dining plans, as well as add other amenities to your stay. Please note if you live within a 90 mile radius, you may waive the two-night minimum hotel stay requirement. For Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Walt Disney World Cast Members, the ticket requirement will be waived.

Here is a list of runDisney Travel agency partners

• 
  
  
  • Academy Travel
  • Acclaim Travel
  • Chamonix-Brasil
  • Dream Departures
  • Heart of the Valley
  • Kaluah Tours
  • Kamel Turismo-Brasil
  • Kintetsu-Japan
  • Magical Enchanted Vacations
  • Magical Miles
  • Pegasus
  • Rent a Tour Turismo – Brasil
  • Running Tours Melbourne
  • Sports Tours International – UK
  • Travelieer-Mexico
  • Travel by Groups
  • Travel with Liz
  • Travelling Fit-Australia
  • Wish Upon A Star With Us

List of Charities participating in runDisney events

• 
  
  
  • Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation
  • ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
  • American Liver Foundation
  • A-T Children's Project
  • Autism Speaks
  • Catch A Lift Fund
  • Covenant House
  • Give Kids the World
  • Homes for Our Troops
  • Hope Water Project
  • Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)
  • Kellsie's Hope Foundation
  • The Magic Foundation
  • Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research
  • Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
  • RODS – Racing for Orphans With Down Syndrome
  • Scott Carter Foundation
  • Sophie and Madigan's Playground
  • Tourette Syndrome Association

Special Note: Travel Agencies and Charities may vary for each event. Check the runDisney website for specific race weekends that you are interested in.

 

[rteetz]

Other FAQs

Does runDisney have a transfer or deferral policy?
runDisney DOES NOT have a transfer or deferral policy as of 2016. They used to offer a deferral for an additional fee and it was only open to a limited number of spots for a limited amount of time. runDisney is reviewing their policies and something new may be out for 2017 but as of right now neither are offered. If you have a medical issue that prevents you from running it is recommended that you still contact runDisney as it has been said they are giving out partial "refund credits" for those with medical issues.

How does RunDisney do on course photos?
RunDisney moved to their own photo service Photopass. In the past they had used a service called Marathonfoto. Now with photopass if you buy a photopass package for your vacation you get your race photos included. There are usually instructions in your race weekend guide with how to add race photos to your photopass account.

Codes are usually in the post race section of the event guide. Unfortunately there is no search option in the digital guides.

Here is a great explanation of photopass and RunDisney from @Ariel484

"When you log into PhotoPass on your MDE account, you see all of your pictures there as usual. In the parks they use your Magic Band or the photographer will scan a card to give it to you - you then input the number on the back of the card into your account and your pics show up.

runDisney photopass is a lot like using one of those cards - your Magic Band is NOT used, it's all about your bib number. When we get the event guide, there will be a 16-digit code printed that corresponds to each race and x where our bib number will need to be added in. For the Disneyland Half, for example, it was 2016-LAND-HLFx-xxxx. So if my bib number was 15607, I'd go into my PhotoPass area of My Disney Experience and put in 2016-LAND-HLF1-5607. If you have a bib number less than 5 digits, you add a zero/zeroes in front (so bib number 4567 would be 2016-LAND-HLF0-4567, bibs number 1 would be 2016-LAND-HLF0-0001). There are no special codes for the challenges, so if you're doing a challenge you'd input the code for each separate race (i.e. a Goofy runner will have a code for both the half marathon and marathon - there's no Goofy code).

It did take a bit for the pictures to actually pop up after Tink this year...it wasn't instantaneous, but I was happy with the number and quality of pictures I got from runDisney. Light years better than MarathonFoto. Just make sure your bib number is very visible, because if it's not, there's no way to link up your pictures."

 

[rteetz]

Volunteering

Every RunDisney race weekend has hundreds if not thousands of volunteers to make the races work well. Volunteers help with everything from expo, to handing out medals at the races.

You must sign up to become a volunteer. Signing up to be a volunteer is similar to signing up for a race.

Volunteers usually get a shirt and/or jacket to wear while they work and a one day park ticket as a thanks for their work if you work on the larger races.

Volunteers during race day often have very long days and must report very early even earlier than runners.

A volunteer report from poster @ejcraft

"I did medals for the 5K, you must report at like 3am, and basically you unpack the medals hang them on the racks, then take turns handing them out as people come across the finish line. I volunteered for Disneyland Tink so we got a free tshirt we were required to wear. ( I think some of the WDW races you get light weight jackets) we got a snack box like the ones they give out at the end of the race.

I then volunteered inside of the expo, here we were actually given a full lunch buffet style. you worked at a bunch of different jobs, giving out pins, and the clear bag and bibs."

 

[SRUAlmn]

Yayyyyyyy!!! Thank you so much for starting this!

 

[BuckeyeBama]

Great idea. It would be interesting to track the cost of these events and challenges. Alo, you should probably note something about the deferral policy.

 

[rteetz]

Great idea. It would be interesting to track the cost of these events and challenges. Alo, you should probably note something about the deferral policy.

Good idea I'm still working on it so I'll try my best to add those in.

 

[jhorstma]

FAQs about volunteering would be awesome!

 

[rteetz]

FAQs about volunteering would be awesome!

Good idea! I will see what I can find but I have no personal experience so help from those who have volunteered would be greatly appreciated.

 

[ejcraft]

FAQs about volunteering would be awesome!

I can help a little bit with this, as I have volunteered for a Disneyland race, and will be volunteering for the Wine and dine 1/2marathon.

Not really sure what people would be interested in, but will put some stuff and and check back so if any one asked a particular uestion I will try and answer them..

signing up to volunteer is almost as nerve racking as it has been to make sure you get a spot for a race. Since you get a 1 day ticket for signing up to work the 1/2 marathon , those spots usually go first, otherwise you need 2 shifts to get that same ticket for other shifts.

some of this may be slightly different, as they did just change the sight where you sign up, I think a new company is doing it.

I did medals for the 5K, you must report at like 3am, and basically you unpack the medals hang them on the racks, then take turns handing them out as people come across the finish line. I volunteered for Disneyland Tink so we got a free tshirt we were required to wear. ( I think some of the WDW races you get light weight jackets) we got a snack box like the ones they give out at the end of the race.

I then volunteered inside of the expo, here we were actually given a full lunch buffet style. you worked at a bunch of different jobs, giving out pins, and the clear bag and bibs.

I fully enjoyed this and will do it again. they emailed the 1 day ticket to me several weeks after the event.

feel free to ask questions and I will answer to the best of my ability.

 

[cmarsh31]

Thank you so much! As a newbie this is so helpful!

 

[ZellyB]

Great start to the thread, Ryan. Thanks for putting it together.

 

[SRUAlmn]

I think it might be important to note a few things about registration that we learned the hard way.

1. Races sell out literally in half an hour or less (10Ks and 5Ks in a matter of minutes!)
2. You cannot register two adults at the same time, under the same login/account. You have to register one, then sign in with the other adult's name and register them (or do it simultaneously on two different devices.) I'm a teacher so my husband was in charge of registering us. He did his (right when the race opened- the 10K) and then went to do mine and it was already sold out!! So now we're both registered for the half (which we are scared to death of) and he planned on deferring the 10K and from what I've heard he can't now? So annoying!!