Hello Ashleigh!
Welcome to planDisney. I'm thrilled to hear of your upcoming visit to Walt Disney World Resort, and so glad you decided to stop by with this question. I'm happy to put your worries at ease for your upcoming trip.
Marathon weekend is an exciting time at Walt Disney World Resort, and while guests may notice plenty of runners proudly wearing their medals around the parks and enjoying a celebratory post-race treat, the events shouldn't put too big of a damper on your visit. Yes, you may experience some road closures and a bit of extra traffic or even some bus delays, but the location and timing of the runDisney events are designed to pose minimal issues for guests visiting the parks on those dates.
The only event happening on January 3rd, the first date of your visit, will be the
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. This is typically held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and is just for runners to pick up their race bibs and do a bit of shopping before their particular event. This really should have no effect on your park timing or itineraries. The
Walt Disney World 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon events are scheduled between January 4-6th respectively, each beginning at 5 a.m. The longer events have minimum pace requirements in efforts to clear the race courses early, so I'm hopeful that most of the road closures or potential delays will be resolved by the time you are ready to head to the parks. If you are traveling back to the airport on the morning of January 7th, I'd allow for some extra travel time so the
Walt Disney World Marathon doesn't affect your plans.
I took a look at the
Hours & Events Calendar during your visit and it doesn't appear that
Early Theme Park Entry is any different than the week prior. Of course, operating hours and experiences are subject to change, but I'm crossing my fingers you'll be in the parks bright and early ready to rope drop your most magical day. As you are navigating between your Disney Resorts Collection hotel and your preferred theme park, I strongly suggest utilizing
complimentary transportation around the resort. Disney Skyliner and Monorail service typically aren't affected, and Walt Disney World Resort Bus Service is likely to have detour routes prepared on runDisney event dates that will be easier to navigate than if you decided to drive in your personal vehicle.
My top tip during any busy holiday season, runDisney weekends, or even during dance or cheer competitions is to pack your patience and a positive attitude. There is so much magic to enjoy that potential crowds, less-than-ideal weather, or even traffic delays shouldn't take away from your experience if you show up like Snow White with a smile and a song in your heart.
My pals
Kaitlin and
Lauren are both runDisney pros so feel free to reach out to them directly if you have more specific questions about the races and what you can expect during your trip.
Magic and memories,
Amy