Welcome to planDisney, Kaitlin!
We're so happy that you came to chat with us, and I hope you'll return in the future with any additional questions you might have! I love spending time at Disney World during the new year, it is such a magical time and there's a sweet, fresh ambience at the theme parks. You're going to love this time! (Keep an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for all of the announcements and happenings during your vacation!)
I am happy to say that I have experienced many runDisney event weekends as a runner and as a visitor who is not participating in the runDisney event. The week you are going may have some overlap from the Christmas/New Year crowds, so the runDisney influx shouldn't feel too overwhelming at the theme parks for you. On the days that overlap the runDisney events (it looks like the
Walt Disney World runDisney Marathon Weekend is scheduled for January 7-11, 2026) I recommend hitting the theme parks early, as most runners will be showering, eating, and freshening up before they head to the parks! You may see a slight increase in crowds during the lunch/afternoon hours, but in my experience, you'll see a tapering-off in the evenings as racers have tired feet or they want to tuck in early before the next day's race. If I were going when you are, I would plan to get to the theme parks as early as I could, have a big meal at lunch, take it slow in the afternoon to recharge, and plan to go hard at the parks until closing.
As for your EPCOT day on the 7th of January, I think you'll be just fine! The first day of Marathon Weekend a lot of people are getting their bibs at the expo and making sure to save their legs for the races.
You're going to have a great time regardless of any crowds -- but trust me when I say that I have enjoyed a lot of days at the theme parks even with the runDisney Guests!
If you have any additional questions, we'd love to hear from you again at planDisney!
See ya real soon,
Allyn