Walt Disney World and crowds are almost synonymous at this point. This is especially true during times when Disney World is hosting major events like runDisney races. Runners participating in the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend have officially arrived in Disney World. Have you noticed increased crowds yet? If not, you will soon!
One of the first stops for runners on race weekend will be the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. Today marks the first day of the Expo for this particular runDisney weekend. The Expo is located at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and there is free transportation from Disney World Resorts such as Coronado Springs Resort. All runners are required to visit the Expo at least one day prior to their first event in order to pick up their race bib, participant shirt, gEAR bag, and any prepaid merchandise. As a reminder, here are the days and times for this weekend’s Expo:
- Thursday, February 26th from 10:00am to 8:00pm
- Friday, February 27th from 12:00pm to 7:00pm
- Saturday, February 28th from 11:00am to 3:00pm
In addition to picking up race bibs and shirts, visitors to the Expo can meet with vendors, browse exhibitor displays, purchase running gear (including limited edition runDisney x Brooks running shoes), and stop in the official runDisney Merchandise Shop. The Expo will again be using a virtual queue on day one for attendees who wish to shop for official runDisney merchandise and the special Brooks running shoes. You can access the Virtual Queue from the MyDisneyExperience app.
In addition to shopping and vendors, the Expo will also have special runDisney photo op backgrounds. Photo Pass Photographers are on hand to take your picture for you, so go ahead and pose with your race bib and represent the race you’ll be completing!
One of the most highly anticipated parts of the Expo for many people are the character meet and greets. There are usually a couple of different characters meeting guests. Often, these character will be related to the race weekend themes. Sometimes, you can even meet a rare character here, too. Quite honestly, however, word travels fast on social media when it comes to rare characters. The line will often get even longer due to non-runners arriving to grab a photo too. Pack your patience and be prepared to wait awhile if meeting rare characters is important to you.
If you’re a runner gEARing up for those magical miles, I want to extend my heart-felt congratulations. I recently spent time oohing and aahing over the shiny medals you’ll be taking home. Cheers to that extra bit of sparkle!
The next race event at Disney World will be the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend in April. It will be the final runDisney event of the 2025 – 2026 season. For all of you race enthusiasts out there, I can’t wait to see you at Springtime Surprise! I’m ready to have a hunny of a race and a chance to earn another medal for my own collection. For more information on upcoming Disney events and planning tips, stay tuned to MouseHouseNews.net. We’ll see you real soon!
