Orlando · runDisney · Events

runDisney With Kids: A Family Spectator's Guide (Plus Kids' Races)

By Janet
Updated June 2026 · 6 min read

You don't have to run a half marathon to make runDisney a great family weekend. There are actual races for the kids, the cheering is half the fun, and the medals are adorable. Whether one parent is racing or you're just there for the magic, here's how to do a runDisney weekend with little ones.

The 2026-2027 race weekends

Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, Oct 22 - 25, 2026
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Jan 6 - 10, 2027
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Feb 25 - Mar 1, 2027
runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend, Apr 15 - 18, 2027

The runDisney Kids Races

Most race weekends include runDisney Kids Races, short dashes by age for the littlest runners plus a one-mile run for older kids, all with a character-filled finish and a medal. It's a low-pressure, joyful way to get the kids their own race-day moment. Registration is separate and fills up, so sign up early.

The best places to cheer

Near the finish line for the big emotional moment (get there early for a spot).
Inside a park along the course, seeing runners come through the castle area is magic.
Make a sign and bring cowbells, runners genuinely love spotting their people.
Know the course map and timing ahead so you can catch your runner at multiple points.

Reality check: race mornings start very early (think pre-dawn). If you're spectating with kids, plan for an early wake-up, then a big rest or pool afternoon after.

What to bring for spectating

Warm layers and a blanket, pre-dawn January mornings are cold
A stroller, snacks, and a portable charger
Homemade signs and noisemakers
A plan to meet your runner after the finish (cell service and crowds are tricky)

Gear up for race weekend

The layers, comfy shoes, stroller fan, charger, and cheer-squad supplies I bring are in my Amazon storefront.

See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Where to stay

Staying close makes those early mornings survivable. Book a room with my last-minute hotel tips, and plan a recovery pool afternoon with my resort day pass trick.

Plan the rest

See every seasonal event in my Orlando family events calendar, and save on park days with my discount Disney tickets guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are there runDisney races for kids?

Yes. Most weekends include runDisney Kids Races: short age-based dashes plus a one-mile run, each with a medal and a character finish. Register early, they fill up.

When are the runDisney races in 2027?

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is Jan 6-10, Princess Half is Feb 25-Mar 1, and Springtime Surprise is Apr 15-18, 2027. Wine & Dine is Oct 22-25, 2026.

Where should I stand to cheer?

Near the finish line for the big moment, and inside a park along the course. Make a sign and know the course timing so you can catch your runner more than once.

Heads up: some links in this post are affiliate links, including my Amazon storefront, ResortPass, and Hotel Tonight, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy or book through them, at no extra cost to you. Race dates and details change, confirm on the official runDisney site before registering.

Janet

Orlando mom of two and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real Orlando fun and deals I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.

See every Orlando event

Disney parties, EPCOT festivals, and runDisney weekends, with dates and what to buy ahead.

Read the events calendar →

Sources: runDisney race calendar, Walt Disney World runDisney. Dates and race details change, confirm on the official site.