Special Needs Family with Mirabel; girl in costume; Encanto
  • On Jul 24, 2025
    Natasha from ACT Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hello! My husband and I will be going to Disneyland on Sunday, 7 September 2025, entering around 11am. I understand the Halloween half marathon will be happening that weekend and was wondering what impact that might have? Thank you!

    Welcome back to planDisney, Natasha! I'm so glad you've stopped by. Your trip is just around the riverbend, so let's get you an answer.

    The Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon typically begins bright and early (around 5:00/5:30 AM) and concludes about 3.5 hours later.  They have a strict pacing requirement for this race, as it can impact roads and parking for some Guests. Usually, a couple of weeks before the race, there is specific information on the runDisney website regarding road closures and other important information. It looks like you are staying at the Disneyland Hotel. On Sunday, you might notice additional foot traffic at the hotel and when passing through the security checkpoints. If you are arriving at 11:00 AM, the race itself should be complete by that time, so I imagine the greatest impact would be crowds.

    Natasha, it looks like my planDisney pals, Melinda and McCayla, gave you some great information on how to make the most of your visit. I also want to make sure you know about adding a Park Hopper to your ticket (allowing you to go between both parks in one day) and Lightning Lane Passes, which allow you to enjoy a shorter line at select attractions. Both of these are add-on options for your park day and really allow you to maximize your time in the parks. Lightning Lanes can be purchased in the Disneyland Mobile App after you scan your ticket. 

    Another way to beat the crowds is to mobile order meals and snacks in the morning for pickup later in the day. I like to check the seasonal foodie guides at the Disney Parks Blog and make a game plan for everything I want to order. Since I'm a local, I will often mobile order my food before I leave my house! I find that ordering early prevents me from having to book later return times later in the day. And don't forget to make those advanced dining reservations for any must-try restaurants. Hint: Some resort restaurants have walk-up lists that can be joined in the app if you aren't able to snag a reservation ahead of time!

    I hope this helps, Natasha! If you have any other questions, please visit us again. We'd love to help!

    See ya real soon,
    Melissa

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Meet the Panelist: Melissa, California

Hi, I'm Melissa - an archivist, wife, mom, and Disneyland Resort specialist from Southern California. I've been visiting Disneyland since I was a baby and, now that I've got three Mouseketeers of my own, I love experiencing everything Disney through their eyes. From watching the Straw Hatters on Main Street, U.S.A. to riding "it's a small world," making magical memories as a family is one of my favorite things. I can't wait to help you research your next Disney vacation. See ya real soon! Learn More About Melissa

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