24 Reasons a runDisney Race Should Be Your First Half-Marathon

POPSUGAR Photography | Dominique Astorino
POPSUGAR Photography | Dominique Astorino

From the spectacular fireworks and carb-loading on churros to the perfect weather, there are a million reasons why a runDisney race through Disney World (or Disneyland, when those races return) is the perfect beginner half marathon — but we'll condense it to 24!

Pondering making the leap into the world of distance running? Wanting to tackle 13.1, but you're feeling a little nervous? This is the ideal way to begin your journey, with a touch of magic.

01
First of All, You're at DISNEY WORLD

First of All, You're at DISNEY WORLD

The end. Just kidding. There are a lot more reasons why this is the perfect first half marathon. Not like you needed convincing beyond this, but anyway . . . proceed.

02

You Can Wear a Costume

How fun is this? Choose your favorite character or make a costume that's inspired by your favorite ride.

03
Or Jazz Up Your Favorite Athletic Gear
Instagram | rundisney

Or Jazz Up Your Favorite Athletic Gear

Not into distance running in a costume? What about some character-inspired activewear?

04
Whatever You Wear, You'll Feel Like a Kid Again

Whatever You Wear, You'll Feel Like a Kid Again

Or just a really, really excited adult. How cute is this Ariel performance gear?

05
You Get to Carb Load on Churros and Dole Whip

You Get to Carb Load on Churros and Dole Whip

ALL THE BEST FOODS. Honestly, this is probably the best reason of all to choose a runDisney race.

06
And Get a Post-Race Brunch of Mickey Waffles

And Get a Post-Race Brunch of Mickey Waffles

There's nothing better. This is a scientific fact.

07
What About a Finish Line Glitter Beer?

What About a Finish Line Glitter Beer?

Yes, this is a thing they had at the Princess Half Marathon in February. It's real. Not into beer? Try a wine slushee. Mmmm.

08
The Expo Is the Cream of the Crop

The Expo Is the Cream of the Crop

You can get manicures (character inspired!) and massages, snag one of those glitter beers or a wine slush, and grab a new tutu or tiara. This picture is me doing all of the above. Wine slush, Ariel mani, pre-massage, about to buy a tiara.

09
The Swag Is Next Level

The Swag Is Next Level

You get some cute gear when you get your bib, but don't forget to stop by the merch area for Disney Princess wine glasses and more.

10
It's an Ideal Race For Beginner Paces

It's an Ideal Race For Beginner Paces

You can go at a leisurely jog, or even walk! The max pace is typically 16 minute miles, which equates to a relatively brisk walk. This is awesome for first-timers.

11
The Weather Is Usually Perfect

The Weather Is Usually Perfect

No snow to worry about in Orlando! The races also start early enough so that it's typically not too warm by the time you finish.

12
Start Your Day Off With Fireworks
runDisney

Start Your Day Off With Fireworks

Seriously, there's no better way to wake yourself up for that 5 a.m. start time than with a big bang of fuchsia fireworks.

13
And End Your Day With Fireworks

And End Your Day With Fireworks

After you complete your race, celebrate at one of the parks and stick around for one of the incredible shows.

14
Forget a Post-Race Shakeout Run; Just Walk Around Magic Kingdom!

Forget a Post-Race Shakeout Run; Just Walk Around Magic Kingdom!

Get your steps, get your Space Mountain time, and let your body recover in an easy, breezy way. Might we suggest another Dole Whip (or two)?

15
It's a Great Group Activity

It's a Great Group Activity

Whether you're a mother-daughter duo, a family, or a group of best friends, these races are an ideal adventure (plus, choice opportunity for group costumes).

16
Did We Mention That Breaks Are Welcomed and Encouraged?

Did We Mention That Breaks Are Welcomed and Encouraged?

Scared about your first 13.1 miles? Give yourself a break — literally. Standing in line for character photos gives you 10 to 30 minutes to catch your breath and restart. Rumor has it you can even take a break to ride roller coasters during the Walt Disney World Marathon . . .

17
Speaking of That, CHARACTER PHOTOS

Speaking of That, CHARACTER PHOTOS

This is a huge draw for so many people — what other race lets you pull over to snag a pic with Cinderella?

18
Running Through the Park Might Make You Cry Tears of Joy

Running Through the Park Might Make You Cry Tears of Joy

There's nothing quite as magical — truly.

19
There's Plenty of On-Course Support

There's Plenty of On-Course Support

You'll be totally supported and safe, with everything from Biofreeze gel for muscles and water and Power Ade to plenty of portable toilets, Jelly Belly Sport Beans, and Sour Patch Kids packs.

20
You'll Be Cheered on Everywhere!

You'll Be Cheered on Everywhere!

Honestly, cheering makes a huge difference. You'll see signs, hear bells and applause, and feel the love along every mile from everyone from employees to parkgoers to some of your favorite characters.

21
Logistics Are All Handled

Logistics Are All Handled

First race means you don't always know the ins and outs of the race: How do you get to the start line? Where do you put your stuff? Where can you meet your family? What will you eat? Disney covers all those bases and makes it easier than ever for a beginner to get right into that race life.

22
The Medals Are Spectacular
POPSUGAR Photography | Dominique Astorino

The Medals Are Spectacular

We dare you to find prettier finisher medals — the runDisney ones are out of this world! Plus, if you do the challenges, you can get multiple medals per race weekend — and special-edition ones.

23
You'll Make Memories With Loved Ones

You'll Make Memories With Loved Ones

You can run a race together, and you can go to a Disney park together — but running a race at a Disney park together? That's pretty darn special. (This is a photo of me making memories with my mom, who dressed as the Ursula to my Ariel — aqua eyelids and all.)

24
The Experience Is So Freakin' Magical

The Experience Is So Freakin' Magical

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned vet, half-marathons can be grueling and painful, but they're oh-so worth it and unbelievably rewarding. Creating a special first memory is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it'll be even more amazing at a runDisney race — trust me on this one.