How to Navigate runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Like a Pro

The runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is one of the most magical race weekends in the world, drawing thousands of runners to Walt Disney World every February. Whether you’re running the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, or the Fairy Tale Challenge, proper planning is key to making the most of your experience. Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating this royal weekend with ease!

When to Sign Up for runDisney Princess Weekend

The runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend typically takes place in late February each year. However, registration opens much earlier—usually in June or July of the previous year. Mark your calendar, because runDisney races sell out fast—especially the 10K and Fairy Tale Challenge (which includes both the 10K and Half Marathon).

Club runDisney members get early access.
General registration opens shortly after, and you’ll want to be ready right at opening time (usually 10 AM Eastern).
If a race sells out, check back frequently, as spots may reopen due to cancellations.

Prepping for Race Weekend: What You Need to Know

Book Your Accommodations Early
Hotels at Disney resorts fill up quickly. Staying on property is convenient, as Disney provides race-day transportation to the start line. If you’re staying offsite, plan for extra travel time and know your parking options. I recommend using my favorite travel agent and fellow runDisney enthusiast, Coco Boden.
Know the Expo Schedule
The runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports opens on Thursday of race weekend. This is where you’ll pick up your race bib, shirt, and any merchandise. If you want exclusive runDisney merchandise, arrive early, as items sell out quickly.
Plan Your Race-Day Outfit
Costumes are a huge part of runDisney culture. I’d venture to say that it’s the reason why I keep signing up… but whether you’re dressing as a princess, villain, or a classic Disney character, make sure your outfit is comfortable, breathable, and chafe-proof.
Prepare for the Weather
February weather in Orlando can be chilly in the morning, with temperatures often in the 40s, 50s or low 60s, but it warms up quickly as the sun rises. Bring a mylar blanket or layers to shed during the run to stay comfortable at the starting line without overheating later.

Race Morning: Things to Remember

1. Wake Up Early—Really Early

Races start between 5:00 and 5:30 AM, and you’ll need to be on a Disney bus or in the parking lot by 3:30 AM to make it through security and to your corral on time. They usually start the buses at 2:30 AM, and you’ll have to go through security and check your bag in. There are characters in the party area, before the corrals, so give yourself enough time if that is something you want to experience before getting into your designated corrals.

2. What to Pack in Your Race Bag

Here’s what you should bring:

✔️ Your race bib (attached before you leave) – they give you safety pins at the Expo, but I used bibSNAPS, because I didn’t want holes in my outfit.
✔️ Hydration (though water and Powerade are provided along the course) – you can wear a running belt or a running vest with water bottles attached so you don’t have to worry about it. I don’t drink powerade, so I hydrated with water and salt tablets.
✔️ Running fuel (energy gels or chews if needed) – I’m a big fan of the brand Gu and I would recommend trying them while you’re training to see if you like the gummies or the gel, so you’re not vomiting on the track because you didn’t taste them first … don’t say I didn’t warn you.
✔️ Body Glide (to prevent chafing)
✔️ Poncho or mylar blanket (Florida mornings can be chilly!)
✔️ Extra hair ties and sunscreen
✔️ Portable phone charger (for race pics and tracking!)

3. Start Slow & Enjoy the Magic

runDisney races aren’t about setting PRs—they’re about the experience! Stop for character photos, enjoy the castle views, and soak in the runDisney magic.

My Experience Running the Princess Half Marathon

From the moment I arrived at EPCOT’s pre-dawn start, the energy was pure magic. The early morning chill had me bundled up in a Mylar Blanket, but as soon as the race started, adrenaline and Disney’s electric atmosphere took over. Running through Magic Kingdom, seeing Cinderella Castle glowing in the morning light, and high-fiving Disney characters along the way made the miles fly by. No sleep, an injury at mile 2, and a whole lot of questioning my life choices… but somehow, I crossed that finish line and now I want to do it all over again. I ran with a friend that helped me stay on track and helped me push through, but the magic of the Princess Half Marathon is real! By the time I reached the finish line, I was exhausted but euphoric—there’s truly nothing like the runDisney experience.

I learned that layers are key, especially for those early morning hours. I saw many runners starting in long sleeves and tossing them aside once they warmed up. If you want to keep warm without carrying extra clothes, a mylar blanket is a lightweight option that many runners use before the start of the race.

Memory Maker & PhotoPass: Capture the Magic

One of the best parts of a runDisney race is the official race photos taken by Disney’s PhotoPass photographers. Throughout the course, you’ll find photographers stationed at scenic spots like Cinderella Castle and character meet-and-greets. If you want to keep these magical race moments, consider purchasing Memory Maker, which gives you unlimited digital downloads of all your PhotoPass photos, including race-day pictures. Be sure to smile and look up when you see the photographers—they’re usually positioned before mile markers and at the finish line!

Post-Race Tips: Recovery & Celebration

🎉 Stretch & Refuel – After crossing the finish line, grab your post-race snack box (FYI there aren’t very many Gluten-Free options so I would pack accordingly if you have Celiac, like I do) and hydrate well. Walk around to cool down before heading back to your hotel or your next destination.

🎠 Enjoy the Parks – If you’re visiting Disney World, consider making park reservations in advance. EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts or Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle photos make for great post-race memories.

🛁 Recovery Matters – An ice bath, compression socks, and a recovery meal will help with post-race soreness.

The runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is an unforgettable experience that blends running and Disney magic. With the right preparation, you’ll feel like royalty from start to finish. Sign up early, plan your race-day essentials, and most importantly—have fun and embrace the magic!

Are you running in the next Princess Half Marathon Weekend? Share your race goals or questions in the comments!