Hi Janet! Welcome to planDisney!
Oh boy! I can't imagine a better way to start the new year than being a part of Marathon weekend at the Walt Disney World Resort!
runDisney always puts on the most spectacular events, and this one is right at the top of the list! While I haven't participated yet in an event, I've started training for a half marathon recently and hope to take part in a runDisney event in the future. I daydream about being able to run through Cinderella Castle in the wee hours of the morning, or through the planet of Batuu as the sun starts to rise.
Janet, you are correct. Marathon weekend does fall when there is not a festival taking place at
EPCOT. Unfortunately, there are no additional food booths open when a festival is not taking place. However, the World Showcase is still open and there are countless food and beverage options to choose from in each country. Many of these offerings are permanent locations set up outside in each of the countries, so you can stroll along through the World Showcase eating and drinking your way around the world.
While the additional food and drink booths that appear during the festivals are a nice addition, the World Showcase alone is all that you need. You can lost in each country, tasting unique cuisine and shopping for authentic merchandise that you can not find anywhere else. If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine, stop by
Choza de Margarita in the Mexican Pavilion to try their empanadas and delicious margaritas. It's a go-to for me every time!
Janet, I hope you have a magical Marathon weekend! Have an amazing time during your stay!
See ya real soon!
Greg