The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is here, bringing thousands of runners to the resort for one of the most anticipated runDisney events of the year. While the races offer a unique opportunity to experience the parks in a new way, they also come with significant road closures that will impact transportation across the property. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the weekend.
Overview of the Marathon Weekend
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend features multiple races, including a half marathon on Saturday and a full marathon on Sunday. Over 30,000 participants are expected to take part, running through all four theme parks and various roadways across the resort. While the races are a highlight for participants, they also require extensive road closures to ensure safety.
Saturday, January 10: Half Marathon
The half marathon, themed around Donald and Daisy Duck, will cover 13.1 miles. The race begins and ends in the EPCOT parking lot, with runners traveling north along World Drive to Magic Kingdom, passing through the park, and returning south to EPCOT.
Key Details:
- Start Time: 5:00 AM
- Estimated Finish Time: 9:45 AM
- Road Closures:
- World Drive will experience closures at various points until approximately 9:30 AM.
- Roads around EPCOT will remain closed until 10:00 AM.
If you’re planning to drive, consider delaying your morning plans until after 10:00 AM to avoid disruptions. Alternatively, Disney bus transportation will operate with modified routes to accommodate the closures.
Sunday, January 11: Full Marathon
The full marathon, led by Mickey and Minnie Mouse, spans 26.2 miles and takes runners through all four theme parks. Starting and finishing at EPCOT, the route includes stops at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the BoardWalk Resort area.
Key Details:
- Start Time: 4:30 AM
- Estimated Finish Time: 12:30 PM
- Road Closures:
- Extensive closures will affect roadways near Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
- Expect disruptions throughout the morning and early afternoon, particularly on the south side of the property.
Guests using rideshare services should be aware that drivers may encounter difficulties navigating the closures. Disney buses will continue to operate, but delays are possible.
Conclusion
The runDisney Marathon Weekend is an exciting event that showcases the unique blend of fitness and Disney magic. While road closures may pose challenges for guests, planning ahead can help minimize disruptions. Whether you’re cheering on the runners or enjoying the parks, this weekend promises to be a memorable one.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
