Toddler; Prince Charming Regal Carrousel; Magic Kingdom
  • On Dec 22, 2023
    Danielle from FL 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, I’m going to magic kingdom on January 6th for my daughter’s first birthday. I know the marathon is going on that weekend but is there anything we need to know when driving our own car there? We live close so we won’t be staying on property.

    Hey there, Danielle!

    Welcome to planDisney. We're so glad you've run by with your fantastic Walt Disney World Resort planning question! As a Florida resident, you're close enough to access the magic any time, but each and every visit is uniquely special. I'd be happy to help you prepare for a magical and memorable birthday celebration for your little one!

    Danielle, each year in early January, thousands of runDisney enthusiasts and athletes flock to The Most Magical Place on Earth for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Next year, this exciting race weekend will take place January 3-7, 2024, with the Walt Disney World Half Marathon being run on January 6, 2024. Course maps were recently revealed for that race weekend and the half marathon course is set to traverse through Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, and the roadways connecting these theme parks. Danielle, I would allow extra time to arrive at Magic Kingdom Park that morning, as you should expect road closures in the surrounding areas. Most notably, World Drive North will be closed between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. to allow runners to make their way to Magic Kingdom Park. You will need to follow the posted detour signage to access parking at the Transportation and Ticket Center, so be sure to allow for extra time during your morning commute!

    According to the Hours & Events Calendar, Magic Kingdom Park is scheduled to open at 8:00 a.m. on January 6, 2024, so if you're able, perhaps you could consider arriving slightly after "rope drop?" With a start time of 5:00 a.m., the final few Walt Disney World Half Marathon runners should be making their way through Magic Kingdom Park just before the theme park opens, so operations should return to normal around that time. While EPCOT will likely have some operational changes later in the morning since runners won't reach it until around mile 13, Guests visiting Magic Kingdom Park that day should experience minimal interruptions!

    Danielle, I hope you've found this information helpful and I wish your daughter an enchanting birthday celebration at Magic Kingdom Park! A few years back, my family celebrated my son's first birthday in the same place. (Today, we cherish the photos of his "cupcake smash" in front of Cinderella Castle!) If you have any additional questions, feel free to revisit planDisney anytime. We're all ears!

    See ya real soon,

    Lauren
thumbnail image for Lauren

Meet the Panelist: Lauren, Michigan

Hello friends! I'm Lauren M. from the Mitten State. I'm a mom, scientist, runDisney enthusiast, Disney Vacation Club Member, and self-proclaimed connoisseur of Disney snacks! For my family, it's a mix of both new and nostalgic that keeps us returning to the Walt Disney World Resort year after year. Throughout my life, I've been fortunate enough to experience many milestones and unforgettable moments at Disney Destinations and I can't wait to help you make magical vacation memories of your own! Learn More About Lauren

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