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Running into the Magic: A Guide to Registering for RunDisney Events
RunDisney events are not just races; they’re exhilarating experiences that combine the thrill of running with the magic of Disney. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, participating in a RunDisney event can be a dream come true. However, with their popularity soaring, getting registered for these events can sometimes feel like trying to win the lottery. Fear not, as this guide will walk you through the registration process, ensuring you’re well-prepared to secure your spot at the start line.
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While Mark and I aren’t complete experts in the world of RunDisney Races, we have participated in the 2016 and 2017 Star Wars Weekends, the 2022 Marathon Weekend, The 2023 Princess Weekend, the 2023 Wine and Dine Weekend, and the 2024 Disneyland Virtual, so we do have some experience! It’s a magical event to be part of, but it can also feel overwhelming and stressful – That’s why we want to share the knowledge we have learned over the years with you.
RunDisney 2024- 2025 Race Weekend Dates
The RunDisney Race season isn’t an exact calendar year. The season historically kicks off with Wine and Dine Weekend in November and ends with Springtime Surprise in April the following year. However, they have introduced a new Disneyland Race weekend that now serves as the start of the season in September.
What are the dates for the upcoming RunDisney Season?
Here is a breakdown of the 2024-2025 registration information. All of this information is always listed on the runDisney website in the top banner of the homepage. They update it every season.
RunDisney virtual series: June 1 – August 31, 2024
Registration: March 26, 2024
Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon weekend: September 5-8, 2024
Club runDisney Registration: February 6, 2024
General registration: February 13, 2024
Wine and Dine: October 31-Nov. 3, 2024
Club RunDisney registration: March 5, 2024
General registration: March 12, 2024
Virtual 12Ks of Christmas: December 1-31, 2024
Registration: July 9, 2024
Marathon Weekend: January 8-12, 2025
Club runDisney registration: April 2, 2024
General registration: April 9, 2024
Disneyland Half Marathon: January 30-Feb. 2, 2025
Club runDisney registration: June 11, 2024
General registration: June 18, 2024
Princess Weekend: February 20-24, 2025
Club RunDisney registration: July 23, 2024
General registration: July 30, 2024
Springtime Surprise: April 3-6, 2025
Club runDisney registration: August 20, 2024
General registration: August 27, 2024
RunDisney Registration Tips:
Before diving into registration, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the various RunDisney events offered throughout the year. From 5K fun runs to full marathons, there’s something for every level of runner. By exploring the event calendar and choosing the race that speaks to you, you’ll be better prepared for registration. When you find a race you are interested in participating in, mark your calendars and set reminders leading up to registration day.
- Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on the RunDisney website and social media channels for announcements regarding upcoming events and registration dates. These races tend to fill up quickly, so knowing when registration opens is crucial.
- Create an Account: Before registration day arrives, create an account on the RunDisney website. This will streamline the registration process, allowing you to enter your personal information and payment details in advance.
- Be Ready to Register: Registration typically opens at 10 AM EST on the day of registration. Set a reminder, and be prepared to log in to your account promptly when registration opens. Have your preferred race and payment information ready to expedite the process.
- Info you need ahead of time: For each registrant: Name; Gender; Shirt Size; DOB; Email; Address; Phone; Emergency contact name, phone, and relationship; How many previous runDisney event distances, staying on property, and with who, Annual Pass holder etc.
- Have Backup Plans: If your preferred race sells out quickly, consider backup options. Whether that is registering for a different race, getting involved with a charity to fundraise for a bib, or watching for last-minute registration openings on the Telegram app.
RunDisney Registration Detailed Guide:
CREATE A RUN DISNEY ACCOUNT
Go to rundisney.com. Click “Help & Support.” Click “Manage Account.” Enter your email and follow the prompts. *You need a separate runDisney account even if you have a My Disney Experience (MDE) login, but you can use the same login and password.
Registration for runDisney events start at 10:00 a.m. EST. Historically, you can enter the queue shortly before that. Be prepared to spend up to TWO hours getting registered. Demand is HIGH, and races sell out in MINUTES. We have been in the queue for close to 90 minutes for some races and less than 30 minutes for other races. Clear your schedule for several hours so you can concentrate on getting registered with zero other distractions.
USE MULTIPLE DEVICES
Around 9:30 a.m., login to your RunDisney accounts on multiple devices like your computer, phone, and iPad. Then we go to the registration page where you will see “Registration Opening Soon” listed under the races. You are now ready to wait until you see the Opening Soon change to “Register Now“.
ENTER THE VIRTUAL QUEUE
When you see the “Register Now” box; click on it.
Pro Tip: If you are trying to register for the 10k but the Half registration opens first, go ahead and click on it! You can choose the race you want on another screen. Don’t panic if you see a long wait countdown; it can go up and down very quickly, so just stay patient and monitor the screen. DO NOT LEAVE OR REFRESH.
When it’s your turn, your page will refresh, and you will enter the portal to purchase your bibs.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Time is not on your side from this point forward. You will need information such as emergency contact names, addresses, and credit cards immediately, we pre-save this information at an earlier time. Assuming you register just one person (see multiples below), complete all prompts as quickly as possible. Skip the pre-ordered merchandise and don’t enter a proof of time (you can edit later). Your goal is to get through checkout as quickly as possible!
PAYMENTS
Only one form of payment is accepted at check out, and remember you are against a ticking clock. If you want to use Disney gift cards, combine them (disneygiftcard.com) first to cover the total amount. You can NOT split payments at checkout.
YOU”RE ALMOST THERE
Your registration is only official once you get an email confirmation number. Sometimes, errors happen, and you have to start over. Quickly check your email if you aren’t directed to a confirmation screen after payment. You must obtain a confirmation NUMBER.
Charges on your credit card do not count as confirmation. This has happened to us a few times; we see multiple charges on our card but have not received an email, and then the charges drop off the card within a few minutes to hours. This happens as the races sell out right from under you! Stay calm and try again or move to your back up plan.
YOU’RE OFFICIALLY REGISTERED!
If you’ve received a confirmation email, you are officially in! You will be prompted to sign a digital waiver. You can do that anytime before the Expo, but you should get it done now.
BACK-UP PLANS
You can search for a charity that you would like to Fundraise for and secure a Charity Bib – Here is a list of RunDisney Charities and Travel Providers – see drop down menu for different races.
You can download the Telegram App, join the runDisney Alerts in Chats, and be notified anytime they have a new opening for any of the races.
RunDisney Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IF I WANT TO REGISTER MULTIPLE PEOPLE?
After your info is entered, but before you checkout, you will see a button at the end of the registration form that says, “I want to add another registration.” If you want to add another race for yourself or secure a bib for others, this is where you do it. All bibs will be added to a single cart and must be paid for with the same method of payment that covers the full price amount.
Pro Tip: Have everyone’s info ready ahead of time. Remember, you are only registered once you have an emailed confirmation number!
CAN I WALK THE RACES?
The short answer is YES, but for distances of 10k and above, you do need to maintain a 16-minute per mile pace. If you fall behind this minimum pace, there are cast members on bikes who will sweep you from the course and bring you to the finish line on a bus. You do receive your medal (but not a challenge medal). I highly suggest you follow a training plan, such as the Jeff Galloway training plan and be fully prepared for your race to have the best experience possible.
Participating in a RunDisney event is a magical experience unlike any other. From running through the Disney parks to crossing the finish line while waving at Mickey Mouse, it’s a journey filled with memories that will last a lifetime. By understanding the registration process and following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of securing your spot at the starting line and embarking on an unforgettable adventure. So lace up your running shoes, channel your inner Disney spirit, and get ready to run into magic with RunDisney. We’ll be back with more RunDisney Tips, Tricks, and FAQ’s soon! Good Luck!!
p.s. All of the custom Minnie Ears and Disney shirts you see in our photos were either purchased on Amazon, Etsy, Hot Topic, Target, or at the official Disney stores! Find ALL of our affiliate links on our SHOP!
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