Few race weekends in the world combine theme park magic, world-class food, and serious athletic achievement quite like this one. The 2026 Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend returns to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida across four days of running, celebrating, and dining. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, this weekend offers something memorable at every mile.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from the full event schedule and race prices to course routes, the post-race party, and practical tips for making the most of your weekend.
Event Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | 2026 Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend |
| Dates | October 22 to October 25, 2026 |
| Location | Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida |
| Organizer | runDisney |
| 2026 Theme | Tastes and tales of the World Showcase countries at EPCOT |
| General Registration Opened | February 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET |
| Club runDisney Early Access | February 3, 2026 (Gold and Platinum members) |
| Races Available | 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Two Course Challenge |
The weekend kicks off on October 22 with the Race Expo, which runs through October 24 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The expo is where runners collect their bibs and race merchandise, browse exhibitor booths, and get ready for their chosen events. Estimated expo hours are Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
2026 Race Themes
This year, each race celebrates a different chapter of World Showcase culture from EPCOT, bringing Disney storytelling to every mile.
| Race | Theme | Disney Characters |
| Wine and Dine 5K | French-inspired | The Aristocats |
| Wine and Dine 10K | Mexican-inspired | Los Tres Caballeros |
| Wine and Dine Half Marathon | British-inspired | Mary Poppins |
| Two Course Challenge | Combined 10K and Half Marathon | Seven Dwarfs (Grumpy and pals) |
These themes connect directly to the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, which runs simultaneously at the park. Therefore, the race weekend and the festival combine into one immersive, food-fueled celebration at Walt Disney World.
Full Race Schedule
| Race | Date | Start Time | Distance |
| Wine and Dine 5K | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 4:30 AM (first wave) | 3.1 miles |
| Wine and Dine 10K | Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 5:00 AM | 6.2 miles |
| Wine and Dine Half Marathon | Sunday, October 25, 2026 | 5:00 AM | 13.1 miles |
| Two Course Challenge | Saturday to Sunday, Oct 24 to 25 | Per race | 19.3 miles total |
One notable change in 2026 is the 5K start time. The first wave begins at 4:30 a.m., a full 30 minutes earlier than previous years. Participants’ start times for the 5K range from 4:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. based on assigned start groups. All races use a corral wave system, with runners assigned to groups based on their anticipated finish time.
Registration Prices
Pricing uses a tiered structure where costs increase after a set date. All prices include a 6.6 percent platform service fee.
| Race | Early Price | Price from August 10, 2026 |
| Wine and Dine 5K | $125 | $135 |
| Wine and Dine 10K | $175 | $185 |
| Wine and Dine Half Marathon | $269 | $279 |
| Two Course Challenge | Bundled price | Bundled price |
| Post-Race Party (non-runners) | $125 | $125 |
Registering before August 10, 2026, saves between $10 and $15 per race. Additionally, registration fees vary slightly based on the exact date of purchase during the initial sales window, so buying early provides the best value.
The Two Course Challenge bundles the 10K and Half Marathon into a single registration. Runners who sign up for both races individually do not qualify for the challenge medal. Therefore, if earning the bonus medal matters to you, registering specifically for the challenge is essential.
How to Register
General registration opened on February 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. ET through runDisney.com. Club runDisney Gold and Platinum members had early access starting February 3, 2026. At this point, the main runDisney registration windows have closed for direct entry.
However, several alternative registration pathways remain available.
- Charity team registration: Organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), Tedy’s Team, A Running Passion, and Cure Rare Disease offer guaranteed race entries in exchange for fundraising commitments. Each charity sets its own minimum fundraising requirements and registration fees.
- Club runDisney: Joining Club runDisney at the Gold or Platinum tier gives early access to registration for future events before the general public.
- Waitlist options: Some charity partners may have limited spots available. Checking directly with charity programs is the fastest way to secure a bib if general registration is sold out.
Proof of time is required for the Half Marathon for runners who expect to finish in 2 hours and 30 minutes or faster. Proof must come from an officially timed race on a USATF certified course held between January 1, 2024, and June 1, 2026. No proof of time is required for the 5K or 10K.
Course Highlights
The 5K Course
The Wine and Dine 5K is an untimed, family-friendly run that serves as the perfect warm-up to the weekend. The route takes runners through EPCOT, giving participants the chance to see the park illuminated before most guests arrive. Characters appear along the course for photos, and the festive atmosphere makes it ideal for families running together.
The 10K Course
The 10K begins in the EPCOT parking area and takes runners through the park’s World Showcase neighborhoods. Los Tres Caballeros bring the Mexican theme to life, and the early morning atmosphere inside EPCOT creates a uniquely magical environment. Runners receive a finisher medal at the end.
The Half Marathon Course
The Half Marathon is the flagship event of the weekend. Runners start in the EPCOT parking lot and travel through Disney’s Hollywood Studios before looping through EPCOT itself, including a run around the World Showcase Lagoon. The course typically features 10 to 15 Disney character stops. At the finish line, every runner receives a finisher medal, a water bottle, a Powerade, a snack box, and a banana. Two Course Challenge participants also receive their bonus challenge medal here.
The Post-Race Party at EPCOT
One of the most beloved highlights of the weekend takes place after the Half Marathon finishes. The after-hours EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival party begins at 10 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, and runs until 1 a.m. Early entry is available at 5 p.m. for those who want to explore before the crowds build.
Half Marathon and Two Course Challenge runners receive post-race party entry as part of their registration. Friends and family who want to join pay $125 per ticket, purchased separately.
The party gives access to EPCOT’s World Showcase booths during the Food and Wine Festival, live entertainment, and the chance to celebrate the weekend’s achievements in one of the most beautiful settings at Walt Disney World. Additionally, runners arrive in their race gear and finisher medals, which makes for some memorable photos throughout the park.
Charity Registration Options
Charity team running is a meaningful way to secure a bib after general registration closes. Several established teams offer entry in exchange for fundraising commitments.
| Charity | Fundraising Minimum (Half Marathon) | Initial Registration Fee |
| National Down Syndrome Society | $825 | $50 per race |
| A Running Passion | $800 | $75 |
| Tedy’s Team | Set by team | Set by team |
Each charity provides guaranteed race entry, official race merchandise, a personal fundraising page, access to a team coach or training plan, and team support throughout the process. Half of the fundraising minimum is typically due two months before race day, with the remainder due shortly after the event.
Practical Tips for a Great Weekend
Planning ahead transforms a good race weekend into a great one. Here are the most useful things to know before you go.
- Book your Walt Disney World hotel early. Official resort hotels offer extended park hours and convenient transport to race start lines.
- Study the Race Expo hours and plan to collect your bib as early as possible in the expo window. Long queues form on the final expo day.
- Set multiple alarms for race morning. The 5K starts at 4:30 a.m. and the Half Marathon at 5:00 a.m., which means arriving at the staging area well before 4:00 a.m. on race days.
- Wear comfortable running shoes you have already trained in. New footwear on race day risks blisters over 13.1 miles.
- Dress for warm Florida October weather. Early morning temperatures can be in the upper 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, and humidity adds to the effort.
- Choose your character photo stops wisely. Lines for popular characters can run 10 to 15 minutes, which adds time to your race if pace matters to you.
- If you are registering through a charity team, start fundraising early. Minimum amounts are significant, and reaching them takes time.
Conclusion
The 2026 Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend runs from October 22 to 25 at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. The weekend includes a 5K on Friday, October 23, a 10K on Saturday, October 24, and the signature Half Marathon on Sunday, October 25. The Two Course Challenge combines both longer races across Saturday and Sunday for a total of 19.3 miles. Race prices start at $125 for the 5K and $269 for the Half Marathon, with costs rising from August 10, 2026. Each race carries a distinct World Showcase theme for 2026, with the Aristocats, Los Tres Caballeros, and Mary Poppins each hosting their respective races.
The post-race party at EPCOT on Sunday evening is included for Half Marathon and challenge runners and available for $125 to friends and family. Charity team registration through organizations like NDSS and A Running Passion remains open for those seeking guaranteed entry. With magical course scenery, character stops, and a celebration built around the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival, this weekend stands apart as one of the most distinctive race experiences in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
The weekend runs from Thursday, October 22, through Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. The Race Expo opens on October 22 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The 5K takes place on Friday, October 23, the 10K on Saturday, October 24, and the Half Marathon on Sunday, October 25.
How much does registration cost for the 2026 races?
The Wine and Dine 5K costs $125 before August 10 and $135 after that date. The 10K costs $175 before August 10 and $185 after. The Half Marathon costs $269 before August 10 and $279 afterward. All prices include a 6.6 percent platform service fee. Post-Race Party tickets for non-runners cost $125.
Can I still register if general registration is sold out?
Yes. Charity team registration through organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society, A Running Passion, and Tedy’s Team offers guaranteed race bibs in exchange for meeting a fundraising minimum. The Half Marathon fundraising minimum is typically around $800 to $825, depending on the charity. A non-refundable registration fee of $50 to $75 also applies.
What is the Two Course Challenge and how does it work?
The Two Course Challenge combines the Wine and Dine 10K on Saturday, October 24, with the Half Marathon on Sunday, October 25, for a total of 19.3 miles. Runners who complete both races on pace earn three medals: a 10K finisher medal, a Half Marathon finisher medal, and a bonus Two Course Challenge medal. Runners must register specifically for the challenge to be eligible for the challenge medal.
What happens at the post-race party and who can attend?
The post-race party takes place at EPCOT on Sunday evening, October 25, starting at 10 p.m. with early entry at 5 p.m., and runs until 1 a.m. It coincides with the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival. Entry is included in Half Marathon and Two Course Challenge registrations. Friends and family who are not registered for either race can purchase tickets separately for $125 each through runDisney.