Hi Chad,
Welcome to planDisney! Thanks for stopping by with a question about
runDisney logistics for the
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January 2026. It's so exciting that you will be running in your first Disney Half Marathon - you are in for a treat! I participated in the 10-Miler this past Springtime Surprise Weekend with several of my planDisney pals, and we had the best time. Let's take a look at how to get to the starting area.
Since the race start time is so early in the morning, you won't be able to use the International Gateway at
EPCOT to get to the starting area. Instead, complimentary buses from all Disney Resort hotels will be available to transport you straight to the bus stops at EPCOT. Friendly Cast Members will be on hand at the bus stops to guide you to the right area and wish you luck on your race.
When you check in at
Disney's Yacht Club Resort, you'll find clear signage displaying all the essential race-day details. This includes the bus stop location, bus route number,
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo hours, and the bus schedules for each event. You'll also see a QR code that provides easy access to the Digital Expo & Event Guide.
A few weeks before the event, you'll have access to the Digital Expo & Event Guide, your one-stop source for all the details about Marathon Weekend. You'll find everything you need in the Event Guide - check-in procedures, bib pick-up instructions, and a full rundown of the event schedule. Please note that your race bib must be picked up at least one day before your race, so it's important to set aside some time for that.
For your convenience, Disney Resort hotels offer complimentary buses to the Expo. Just take a look at the signage outside your resort lobby for the bus stop locations and schedules. Alternatively, you can drive, request a Minnie Van, or use a rideshare service to head to the
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
Did you know that your
PhotoPass photos are included with your race registration? To link your photos, you'll need to log in to the My Disney Experience App. Once you click on the menu icon at the bottom right, scroll down to the "Account" section. From here, click "Link to Account" and click the "Type ID" tab. Next, enter the PhotoPass ID from your Check-In Pass, and you're all set! While you're running, be sure to keep an eye out for PhotoPass photographers and their bright green tents (they will be stationed on both sides of the route so they can catch as many runners as possible).
I hope this information helps with your planning, Chad. Wishing you a fantastic first
runDisney event, you are the magic!
Happy running,
Candace