Throughout the years, Walt Disney World has played host to numerous events and festivals. But, few have found the immense popularity of runDisney events. Traditionally held 4 times per year (January, February, March and November) each event offers a variety of distances, ranging from 5k up to a Full Marathon (January) and even a kids run. You will also find each has their own unique theme, such as Princesses, Star Wars, and even Villains which are evident in the medals you can aquire!

While many die hard runDisney fans and competitors have had to participate in these events virtually for the past year, there have been cheers of joy over the recent announcement that these events will become “In Person” events again, beginning with “Wine and Dine Half Weekend” November 4-7, 2021.

For those that are ready to share their love of running, these events offer a unique perspective of WDW, and many join up with friends to help cheer each other along the way. However, many people choose to to participate on their own… and make new friends throughout the event.

Ready to run? Well, I talked with some of my friends over at Destinations To Travel and they are providing some of their tips on how, from start to finish, you can take part in your next – or first –  runDisney event!

~Meet Casey Bolt~

A runDisney enthusiast with top tips for securing your race bib

When registration opens, it can be a challenge to secure those sought after Race Bibs! Casey’s advice?

“My tips for securing a bib would be pack your patience. It’s a stressful process. Make sure to have all your info ready ahead of time- credit card info, race distance, shirt size, emergency contact, etc. Also try to log into the registration area early- I’ve been let into the virtual queue up to 20 minutes before the registration start time. Use multiple devices if you can- it gives you a better chance of getting in. I usually have a computer, phone, and iPad trying at once. Then pray for pixie dust! If they sell out, keep checking back periodically. They reload additional bibs sometimes but in very small quantities so they will disappear quickly!”

Want more tips from Casey? Find her on Facebook at Destinations To Travel LLC, Casey Bolt and in her fact filled group Magical Miles with Casey Bolt

~Meet Paul Sul~

An all around Fitness enthusiast knows the top tips to prepare for your run

So, you have secured your place in a runDisney event! What now? Prepare and train. Here are some tips from Paul on how to start your training plan.

“When preparing for any distance run, the most important thing is to give yourself enough time to prepare and train, especially for someone who has never run over 3 miles.

Always, always, warm up with dynamic stretching to get loose and stretch after the run.

A dedicated teacher who finds her escape through fitness and art.

You’ve planned, you’ve trained, and you have a killer playlist – so what can participating in runDisney event do for YOU? I’ll let Marisa put that into perspective!

” The image with the Ahsoka Tano medal was a full circle moment. I was registered for the Rival Run in 2020 (which was canceled due to COVID). That was supposed to be my first in-person event and was the catalyst for my running journey. Ever since then, I haven’t stopped running and pushing myself to conquer another challenge. While I’ve been running virtually every race (since the in-person events will be returning in the fall), I still feel the sense of community through these events. The support over social media has been incredible and I’ve been able to bond with fellow agents, Paul and Casey, over running and fitness in general. That sense of camaraderie has given me the courage to strive for more. With that, I’ve completed every distance that runDisney offers (from 5K through a full marathon … which was insanely difficult) and took part in every theme they’ve offered (Star Wars, summer series, Wine and Dine, Marathon, and Princess). Never in a million years would I have thought that I could make it, nor would I have ever even wanted to try but there’s something that keeps me coming back for more. I hope that I can secure a bib for my first in-person race because as Moana would say, “If I go, there’s just no telling how far I’ll go.” “

For more of Marisa’s inspiration, find her at Destinations to Travel LLC with Marisa Alvarado and on Instagram @behindtheearswdw 

Photo credit: Twitter

For some, a runDisney event is a fun way to expand out of their comfort zone. For others, it’s a part of what makes WDW even more magical. But no matter which category you fall into, it’s an experience worth having.

Tell Us…Have you ever participated in a runDisney Event? Or are you ready to participate? Let us know in the comments below!