The 2026 Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend will take place from Sunday, January 7 to Thursday, January 11, 2026, at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Weather forecasts for the weekend predict mostly sunny skies with daytime highs around 68 °F (20 °C) and overnight lows near 48 °F (9 °C). The schedule features a series of themed races, each hosted by classic Disney characters, that run through the resort’s four theme parks.
What dates and times are the races scheduled?
→5 K – Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 5:00 AM
→10 K – Friday, January 9, 2026 at 5:00 AM
→Half Marathon – Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 5:00 AM
→Marathon – Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 4:30 AM
→Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge – Half Marathon (January 10) and Marathon (January 11)
→Dopey Challenge – 5 K (January 8), 10 K (January 9), Half Marathon (January 10), Marathon (January 11)
What distances are available for this event?
→5 K (Sci‑fi theme, hosted by Pluto)
→10 K (Mysterious theme, led by Chip ’n Dale)
→Half Marathon (Romantic theme with Donald & Daisy)
→Marathon (Fantasy theme with Mickey & Minnie)
→Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge (Half + Full Marathon)
→Dopey Challenge (All four races)
What are the themes and character hosts for each race?
→5 K – Sci‑fi theme, hosted by Pluto
→10 K – Mysterious theme, led by Chip ’n Dale
→Half Marathon – Romantic theme featuring Donald Duck and Daisy Duck
→Marathon – Fantasy theme ruled by Sir Mickey Mouse and Lady Minnie Mouse
→Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge – Laughter‑themed, bonus medal for completing both races
→Dopey Challenge – Fairy‑tale theme, bonus medal for completing all four races
How much does registration cost for each race?
→5 K
– Early‑bird (March 11 – September 8 2025): $119.99
– Regular (September 9 – October 31 2025): $130.00
→10 K
– Early‑bird: $166.00
– Regular: $176.00
→Half Marathon
– Early‑bird: $240.00
– Regular: $250.00
→Marathon
– Early‑bird: $242.00
– Regular: $252.00
→Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge
– Early‑bird: $473.00
– Regular: $483.00
→Dopey Challenge
– Early‑bird: $580.00
– Regular: $590.00
All prices include a 6.6 % platform service fee.
What is included in the registration fee?
→Official race course through Walt Disney World Resort parks
→Disney character sightings and on‑course entertainment
→Finisher medal for each completed race
→Participant shirt (size chart available)
→On‑course and post‑race refreshments
→Digital Expo & Event Guide
→Downloadable finisher certificate
What race rules and categories are offered?
→Gold and Platinum club runDisney categories (early‑bird and regular pricing tiers)
→Open‑race categories for all other participants
→Each race follows standard road‑running regulations and park safety guidelines
What health and safety measures may be in place during the weekend?
→Face coverings may be required if deemed appropriate by park officials
→Physical distancing guidelines for on‑course checkpoints and support stations
→Sanitization stations along the courses
→Updated health and safety policies reviewed on the official event website
What awards and medals are awarded?
→Individual finisher medal for each race (5 K, 10 K, Half Marathon, Marathon)
→Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge medal for completing both the Half Marathon and Marathon
→Dopey Challenge medal for completing all four races
→Total of 6 medals available to Dopey Challenge participants
What facilities and amenities are available to participants?
→Hydration and nutrition stations at regular intervals
→Medical tents staffed by qualified personnel
→Restroom and shower facilities in each theme park
→Participant lounge areas with seating and charging stations
→Merchandise kiosks offering race‑related apparel and souvenirs
What weather considerations should participants prepare for?
→Morning temperatures around 60–65 °F; dress in layers to accommodate cooler starts
→Potential for afternoon sunshine; sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) recommended
→Light rain possible; waterproof running shoes or gaiters advised
→Wind conditions generally mild but may increase on open park grounds
→Stay hydrated throughout the race, especially during the marathon’s early start hour
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend?
A: The event takes place on 7 January 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Orlando, United States.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 42 km, 63 km.
