Are you looking for the ultimate guide to runDisney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
Well, look no further. You’re in the right place!
Disney Parks have been in the business of marathon weekends since 1994. It first started at Walt Disney World with the idea of a “runcation.”
The idea has a Disney parks vacation combined with a race that one participates in.
This event has since expanded to Disneyland Resort and has also come to Disneyland Paris.
The races have grown in popularity over the years with them happening in different locations, with different themes and medals.
Today, I will be discussing the Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend, what to expect and I’ll be answering questions you may have along the way.
So, let’s get started!
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runDisney Wine and Dine Half Marathon at a Glance:
- Types of Races: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Two Course Challenge
- Dates: October 31, 2024 to November 3, 2024
- Cost: The races start at $112
- The races officially start at 5 a.m.
Keep reading to learn how to conquer this Disney World event like a pro!
What is the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon?
The runDisney Wine and Dine Half Marathon is a race that takes place generally during the first weekend in November at the height of the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival.
It gives you the chance to enjoy the festival and the Disney parks while taking you through a different lens by racing through various courses throughout the resort.
What kind of races are there during the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
For Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend, there are a few options to choose from including parties such as the:
- 5k
- 10k
- Half Marathon
- Two Course Challenge
- Post Race Party
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Are the run DisneyRaces free?
The RunDisney races are NOT free and the cost is dependent upon the race you choose to run. Prices also are subject to change.
- 5k: $112
- 10k: $155
- Half Marathon: $240
- Two Course Challenge: $400
- Post Race Party: $110
Understandably, these options are not cheap. Another option you can try is working with a participating charity for the race.
How to get a charity to sponsor you for a runDisney event?
The way this works is that the charity will give you a race spot in exchange for you fundraising money for their cause.
You only pay out of pocket the difference if you are unable to raise the full amount you committed to.
For example, I worked with the American Cancer Society in the past who always set a specific goal for each race. This is the amount I must commit to fundraising in exchange for my race spot. Here is a list of participating charities to look at it you consider this option.
I recommend choosing a charity that speaks with you personally.
Who can participate in the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
Disney’s policy for age limits for running are as follows:
- All participants for a 5K distance must be at least 5 years of age or older on race day to participate and must be able to complete the 5K on their own.
- Participants for a 10K distance must be 10 years of age or older.
- The participants for a half marathon must be 14 years of age or older.
- Participants for a marathon must be 18 years of age or older.
If 13 of younger, the participant can run in the 10k and above races as long as they are with an adult and they must sign a waiver.
What is included with my runDisney race purchase?
What is included is dependent upon the race for the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend.
I will go over each race and what you get below.
Half marathon:
- 13.1 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Digital Expo and Event Guide
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
- After-Hours access to a post-race party at EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
The 10k:
- 6.2 mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 10K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Digital Expo and Event Guide
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Two Course Challenge:
- 10K and Half Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Resort, totaling 19.3 Miles
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 2 Finisher Medals and 1 Challenge medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- 3 Participant Shirts
- Digital Expo and event Guide
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
- After-Hours access to a post-race party at EPCOT International food & Wine Festival
The 5k:
- 3.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Resort
- An array of Disney character sightings and entertainment throughout the race
- 5K Finisher medal
- On-Course and Post Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Digital Expo and Event Guide
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
When can I register for my runDisney race?
It is recommended that you sign up as soon as possible. Disney announces when guests can register in advance so you can prepare to register online.
Because the events are majorly popular and sell out quickly, I would suggest being logged in, payment in hand at least 10-20 mins prior to the site opening.
Also, make sure that you have all your information on hand so you won’t lose your spot to buy.
What are the course maps for each race during the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
Generally, the course maps are not revealed until a month or so prior to running but they tend to not change too much from their past maps.
I will add the 2024 map to this guide once it’s released.
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Do I need to do any training for the races?
For the 5k, it isn’t timed so you can walk the entire course without getting swept off the course by the balloon ladies.
For the 10K and Half marathon, I would suggest doing some form of exercise or training as you have to maintain a 16 minute mile pace in order to not be swept off the course.
runDisney has worked with Olympian runner Jeff Galloway to create running training programs for all levels.
However, it is suggested that you start training between 12-18 weeks prior to your race.
Who are the run Disney balloon ladies?
The balloon ladies are women who mark the end of the race. These ladies walk a 16 minute mile and start after the last runner has crossed the start line.
They have balloons attached to them for runners to be able to notify them that they have to pick it up. They are very kind and as long as you can keep up with them, you will not be swept.
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runDisney Race Expo Center
The Race expo is a central hub is where both runners and spectators can visit. Here you can find businesses selling race and exercise products that can assist you with your runs.
It is also here where you can purchase specialty race merchandise and products like shirts, spirit jerseys, pins, Corkcicle cups and so much more.
- Officially Licensed Disney Cinderella Apparel
- 18PRIN00027A-001
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
The race expo is where you will pick up your bib and gear too.
The expo opens from Thursday to Saturday of the race weekend with varying hours so be sure to check the official runDisney site for the latest information.
Hipster Power Tip: Remember that Saturday tends to close before 4 p.m. and open later in the day than Thursday and Friday.
What will I need to pick up my race bib?
You will need a valid form of identification and your check in pass, which will be emailed to you prior to arrival.
The check in pass will have your number that you will give to your cast member in exchange for your bib.
Your bib will also tell you which corral you will be in, which will determine when you will ultimately start your race.
The 5 Corrals for the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
There are generally 5 corrals, named A, B, C, D, E and they are sent off in waves within each group. The bag will include your race shirt, bib and other fares that you may need.
For the corrals, you will want to be at least in groups C or D and your chances of getting these groups will improve if you submit a proof of time.
If you’ve never run, just submit a time you feel you will finish then.
For certain races, you may need to submit proof of time if you believe you will finish under 2 hours.
Hipster Power Tip: It should be noted that only you can pick up your race bib, unless you are a parent or guardian picking up for a minor.
What are the race themes for runDisney?
Each race has a theme that is announced a few months in advance to the sale of the race. The theme changes yearly so it’s unclear each year what they will be.
Rest assured that you will have plenty of notice as this generally determines the race each runner will do and what the costume will be.
Can I wear a costume to a runDisney event?
One of the fun perks of running a runDisney race is dressing up! runDisney has recently updated their costume policy and guidelines as follows:
According to Disney, runDisney reserves the right to deny admission to, or remove, any person wearing attire that runDisney considers inappropriate or attire that could detract from the experience of other participants and Guests.
Costume Guidelines for runDisney:
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
- Participants 14 and older may not wear costume masks of any kind and participants 13 and younger may wear costume masks.
- If you dress like a character, you may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other.
- Costumes may not drag on the ground and may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another participant.
- Your costumes may not contain any weapons which resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- Layered costumes, such as ball gowns, hoop skirts, those that have an infrastructure with metal components or hard edges, costumes that do not follow the natural contour of the human body, and/or costumes that could conceal prohibited items are not permitted.
- Small, inflatable or soft-bodied, handheld props (e.g. an inflatable Toy Story ball) are permitted.
- Layered clothing, including tutus over running shorts, cold-weather gear such as sweatshirts or sweatpants, and clothing that follows the natural contour of the body are permitted unless they present a safety hazard (e.g. dragging on the ground).
- Costumes or large props including, without limitation, items that present a safety hazard (e.g. King Triton’s trident), those that surround the entire body (e.g. cardboard, plastic or other wearable costumes with hard edges, such as a house from Disney-Pixar’s Up), those that are inflatable, or those that physically connect multiple participants to each other are not permitted.
- Tutus, transparent wings and hats/headwear are permitted; however, they may not cover the participant’s face.
- Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist.
- Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts and hats are acceptable.
You can get the complete list of rules here.
Is there a place to store my items during the race?
At some runDisney events, gEAR Bag Check services may be offered. If this service is available, a transparent plastic bag will be provided to you when you pick up your runDisney event bib.
This bag is designated for use with the gEAR Bag Check service, and alternative bags will not be accepted. It is recommended not to check valuable items.
Please note that runDisney holds no liability for any lost, damaged, or stolen items, including those stored with the gEAR Bag Check service.
runDisney Character Locations
During the races, you will have the chance to get a quick photo with Disney and Pixar characters.
Sometimes it will feature rare characters so its a treat for runners who are Disney fans.
The lines can be long so if you don’t mind waiting or meeting a time, it can be worth it. They won’t tell you in advance what characters will be out.
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What if I have to go to the bathroom?
There are porta potties throughout the race course that you can pop into and they have hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean.
You are also allowed to use any bathroom you pass by in the parks during your run.
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Can my family and friends watch me run my race at Disney World?
They can come and support you! There are designated areas where they can wait for you to cross the finish line, as well as throughout the course as well.
Spectators will be able to relax in a reunion area where there is food and drinks for purchase as they wait for you to finish.
They are welcome to make signs to cheer you on as long as they are appropriate as well and wear outfits of support.
Will I have to provide my own medicine or water?
You are welcome to provide whatever you need to help you run. Along the course, there are medical tents, medics on bikes, police presence and stops for water and Powerade if you need.
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What time will the race start?
The races officially start at 5 a.m. but depending on your corral and the wave you are in, you can start anytime between 5 a.m. to 6 a.m.
Also, depending on your corral and race, your corral will open between 3 a.m. and close at a certain time. If you do not make it into your designated corral, you will be placed in the next one.
It is recommended that you get to your race at least between 3:30 a.m to 3:45 a.m. if you aren’t staying on property.
Does Disney have special packages or deals if you stay on property for your race?
Disney does have special packages and room only deals for runners participating.
They will also provide transportation from your resort to the expo and back as well as for your race day. Be sure to check in with their site for deals or ask your Disney Travel Agent.
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My Final Thoughts
While runDisney races can be a bit intimidating, they can truly be so much fun and rewarding.
The community, support and camaraderie you find as you train for the big day has been a joy to be a part of for me personally.
Hopefully this guide gave you a bit of insight on what to expect and do when doing the Walt Disney World Wine and Dine Half Marathon race!
Have you ever participated in a runDisney event? Let us know in the comments section below.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipster!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.