Welcome to planDisney, Natalie! I'm so glad you've run by with your question. I've participated in many runDisney events at the
Happiest Place on Earth, and I'm happy to answer your planning question. I am SO excited that you'll be visiting Disneyland for the first time, so let's get to it!
runDisney Disneyland races typically begin early (around 5:00/5:30 AM, depending on the race) and conclude before the park opens to Guests. The exception to this would be the half marathon on Sunday, February 1, which has a set pace time of 16 minutes per mile and tends to end right around park opening. A couple of weeks before the race, there is specific information on the
runDisney website regarding road closures and other important information. However, the biggest impact on park operations would likely be the crowds after the race. I suggest checking the
Hours & Events Calendar on the Disneyland website as your visit nears. The calendar extends six weeks out, and should have more information for the dates of your visit sometime in the next couple of weeks!
Natalie, if you are concerned about maximizing your time during your visit, I highly suggest adding the Park Hopper option to your ticket, which allows you to visit both parks in one day. I also think
Lightning Lane Passes, which typically offer shorter wait times at select attractions, would be a good option for a first visit. Lightning Lanes can be purchased in the
Disneyland Mobile App after you scan your ticket for admission. If you plan to use Lightning Lane Multi Pass (LLMP), I recommend arriving at the parks as soon as they open, as it allows you access to earlier return times. Some of the most popular attractions, like Space Mountain, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Big Thunder Mountain, are some of the LLMP rides you may be able to enjoy. There are also Lightning Lane Single Pass (LLSP) options for Rise of the Resistance and Radiator Springs Racers - these rides are a must-do for a first visit.
Another way to beat the crowds is to mobile order meals and snacks in the morning for pickup later in the day. Since I'm a local, I often mobile order my food before I leave my house... and I highly recommend this early morning order technique to ensure you get those tasty snacks. Ordering early prevents me from having to book pickup times that are later in the day.
Natalie, you picked such a great time to visit the Disneyland Resort! The
Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration is going on through Summer 2026, and Mickey and his friends have prepared so much fun! Two of my favorite experiences include
World of Color Happiness! and
Tapestry of Happiness. Be sure to check the Hours & Events Calendar and the
Disney Parks Blog for all of the fun event and celebration info!
I hope this helps, Natalie! If you have any other questions before your trip, please visit us again. We'd love to help!
See ya real soon,
Melissa