Hi Robin!
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Happy Birthday to you & congratulations on running with your nieces for the
Star Wars Half Marathon-The Dark Side! It sounds to me like you going to have a wondEARful weekend full of celebrations!
Logistically this year, the Star Wars Half Marathon- The Dark Side is a little different than it's been in years past, so I'm so glad you asked this question. For runners that are driving themselves, you'll actually want to follow the Walt Disney World signage to
Epcot. You'll park and leave your car there, then take a bus over to the
Magic Kingdom area where you will proceed with security and bag check. Parking will not be available at the Transportation and Ticket Center the morning of.
Traffic during the races can be slightly unpredictable the morning of, so I'd err on the side of caution and tell you to try and be parked at Epcot by about 4:15 AM. While it depends on how far you are from Walt Disney World, I'd plan to be there by that time, and make sure to account for the potential of traffic.
Mom Tip: Make sure to stop by Guest Services while you are on property to pick up your birthday button to commemorate your special day!
Please let me know if you have any other questions and 'May the Force be with you' and your nieces out on the course!
-Lindsey ºOº