When preparing for a runDisney race weekend, the focus tends to be on the race itself. After all, there is a lot of preparation and training involved!
runDisney makes the race weekends even more magical by adding in special pre- and post-race activities. While none of these are mandatory (except the Health & Fitness Expo) and include an extra cost, a few may be well worth it. Below is a quick look at these activities, along with links to our reviews!
Pre-Race
During each race weekend, the Health & Fitness Expo is where participants pick up their race packet, which includes their race bib and shirt. However, there is much to explore! Visit various vendors, listen to the speaker series, make posters for cheering and shop until you drop.
Join Runner’s World in this exclusive package, available only during Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (and specifically, only the Dopey Challenge). This includes private packet pickup, course strategy sessions, Pasta in the Park Party, Race Retreat, a shorter walk to the corrals and more.
(No longer available, as of 2017.) During Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and Princess Half Marathon Weekend, enjoy a pasta buffet, character meet and greets, a DJ and even a special viewing area for IllumiNations. This nighttime party at Epcot happens multiple nights throughout the race weekend.
For the half marathon and marathon races during Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Race Retreat offers a climate-controlled tent with a continental breakfast, private port-o-potties and a stretching area for runners before the race. However, this is also a post-race activity! After the race, enjoy breakfast, character meet and greets, and even a short massage.
Post-Race
While this technically occurs during the race, there is an activity for spectators during Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and Princess Half Marathon Weekend! With various levels, spectators can receive everything from an e-newsletter to exclusive viewing areas and access to Race Retreat after the race.
Post-Race Breakfast*
(No longer available, as of 2017.) During Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and Princess Half Marathon Weekend, families can enjoy a breakfast after the 5K and 10K events. Located in the Family Reunion area, along with breakfast, there will be character meet and greets.
As part of the Wine & Dine Half Marathon race registration is entrance to the after party! Party the night away in the parks as you enjoy food, attractions and even photos with your favorite characters! (Non-race participants must pay for tickets to enter.)
*these are not included with race registration and need to be purchased separately.
Whether or not any of these activities are needed is up to each person and family. We have run many race weekends without experiencing any, however we have also enjoyed a few race weekends splurging on a few! Again, the only necessity is the Health & Fitness Expo, the others are completely optional. No matter what you decide, you are sure to have a magical experience during your runDisney race weekend!
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