Are runDisney Races Worth the Cost?

May 25

I get this question any time I start talking about my love for runDisney, and I totally understand why. Typically, the first word that comes to someones brain when they hear the word "Disney", is money. The cost of a Disney vacation varies, however, add runDisney events on top of what you're already spending on your "racecation" and it can be a pretty penny.

I like to answer the question "Is a runDisney event worth it?" with this...it depends on your expectations. runDisney holds a special place in my heart and will always be my preferred racecation destination. Granted I started participating in runDisney events when I lived in California, it was convenient to get to Disneyland Resort and I could drive home after the races. Now it takes a little more planning (and money) to get to Florida and Walt Disney World from Tennessee.

runDisney isn’t cheap. Never has been, never will be. Local races are a much better value for those of us that don't live in California or Florida, but as a self proclaimed Disney Adult, I have no issue paying the prices. I budget my family's finances to the cent, year round, and save year round for these racecations. Truth be told, I can't put a price tag on the feeling I get running down Main Street U.S.A., knowing that is something not every runner will get to experience by skipping runDisney events. The very first time I ran at Walt Disney World was January 2023 for the Dopey Challenge (that's a 5k, 10k, half marathon AND full marathon in four days), and I came onto Main Street and saw Cinderella Castle, I bawled like a baby. For me, it's the emotion of accomplishing something so amazing in one of my favorite places (Disneyland being my #1 favorite).

And now with Disneyland races back beginning January 2024, I have already booked our room and ticket package for September 2024 in hopes that I get into the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend. If I do, this would mean I would earn a "Coast To Coast" medal for completing a half marathon on both coasts in one calendar year (I'm also running Princess Weekend 2024 with friends and colleagues). I have had a Coast To Coast on my bucketlist for 8 years, and to think that I may actually earn that at my home park, with my husband and kids there to witness, makes me tear up. Again, it's the emotion for me.

There are plenty of ways to make a racecation as affordable as possible. Staying at a Value Resort, having groceries delivered instead of having to eat out for every meal, or at least having snacks you love in your room, can save a good amount of cash. Limiting your days in the parks can help significantly on cost. I typically only do one or two park days as this is not what I consider a regular vacation. Magic Kingdom at the end of race weekend is an absolute must. Trust me, you want those pictures in front of Cinderella Castle with all of your medals! You worked so hard to get here, you've earned bragging rights! Sharing a room with friends that are running as well can help on cost as well! I am sharing a room with three friends for Princess 2024, and with 3/4 of us being agents, we knew the second a promo came out for Disney Chase cardholders and we applied a discount to lower our overall and individual cost.

So back to whether runDisney is worth it. It depends on what you’re looking for. For a first-timer who is looking for a great race experience to give them a positive attitude about running and having fun, yes, absolutely, runDisney is for you. The runDisney races are what encouraged me to start running and have helped me to continue running. Along the way, I found fellow Disney addicts, motivation to continue running, a love of running costumes, and a whole lot of bling. They really do have some incredible medals. Even if you’re not a first timer, runDisney races are fun. That’s why I keep coming back. They don’t slack on course volunteers, bathrooms, water stations, and first aid tents. Those are necessary for any runner.

Even if you're a runDisney veteran, it's hard to step away once you've experienced DJ CJ at 3:30am in the Epcot parking lot, and the way John and Carissa feel like they're your personal cheerleaders. That's marketing its at finest. Maybe Disney knows they’ll always have a market with loyal fans and new runners who want a magical experience. As for me, I will continue to runDisney for as long as my body physically allows me and as long as finances allow. There is something so special about runDisney events, I will be sad when the day comes I no longer participate. Maybe by that time, I'll be living in Florida and will be close enough to volunteer.