Walt Disney said that it started with a mouse. The runDisney phenomenon started with a single marathon in 1996. Now there are over a dozen different races, eight challenges, nine kid runs during four major events. Many of the races, challenges and runs are so popular they sell out.
This is the third of a three part series on Disney special events. Additional posts are:
- 2020 Disney World Special Event schedule: Feb – June
- 2020 Disney World Special Event schedule: July – December
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Feb. 20-23, 2020
Princess power abounds during the first available event on the 2020 runDisney Race Calendar; the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Princesses of all ages can compete in a 5K, 10K, or half marathon. Ninety percent of the runners are women. Princes do compete (often in tiaras and tutus) but their results are not timed or official. All races take place in Epcot but the ½ marathon includes the Magic Kingdom as well. There are kid’s dashes and a one mile run. The 5K, 10 K and Kids one mile are already sold out.
Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon Weekend
Apr. 16-19, 2020
Let the force be with you as you complete the 5K, 10K and/or half marathon during the Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon Weekend. This 2020 runDisney Race Calendar event promises to be special as it is the first of its kind after the opening of Star Wars Galaxys Edge in Disney Hollywood Studios. Run past storm troopers, droids and resistance fighters to complete the course and collect your medal(s). runDsney kids races are available as well .
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Nov. 5-8, 2020
Now it seems to us that any event that has wine and dine and marathon in the name seems rather conflicted. However, the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend takes place during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and seems the perfect way to burn off calories. This 2020 runDisney Race Calendar event is our favorite because there is a great after race party! You don’t even have to attend the race to attend the party. Registration opens soon.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
January 6 – 10, 2021
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is the granddaddy of all the marathon weekend events. Over 25,000 runners and uncounted supporters will gather. We have been present for several races as members of the chEAR Squad and can tell you that Disney World is electric with the energy this event brings.
This is the only runDisney event that includes a full marathon in addition to the 5K, 10K and ½ marathon. In fact, you can run all four to complete the Dopey Challenge. Feeling Goofy? Run Goofy’s Race and a half Challenge by completing the full and the half marathon. The longer races run through all four Disney parks. Runners have been known to stop and enjoy an attraction during the races.
The last event of the 2020 runDisney Race Calendar begins in mid April 2020 with registration. This is almost a mini event for runners as registration slots close out fast.
Which race weekend is your favorite? Let us know in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter!
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