Disneyland Half Marathon Hiatus Announced After 2026: What Runners Need to Know
Big news in the running world—especially for all you Disney-loving runners! After only recently making its magical comeback, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend is once again going on hiatus after the 2026 race, and the running community has plenty to say about it.
What’s Happening With the Disneyland Half Marathon?
Disneyland Resort has officially announced that all runDisney races at Disneyland will be paused after the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend. The reason? Construction—again. This time, it’s tied to the massive Disneyland expansion project recently approved by the Anaheim City Council. Disney says the scale of upcoming construction will make it impossible to deliver the race experience runners expect and deserve.
Here’s what we know right now:
*2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will still take place as planned, January 29 – February 1, 2026
*2025 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend will also still take place as planned
After that, all Disneyland-based runDisney events are on hold until further notice
Why Is This Controversial?
This announcement stings for many runners, especially since the Disneyland races only recently returned after a long hiatus (the last pause was also due to construction). Many in the running community were just starting to plan their Coast-to-Coast Challenge dreams or relive the magic of running through Sleeping Beauty Castle, and now those plans are up in the air again.
RUNNING Community Feedback: Mixed Emotions and Race FOMO
Disappointment and Frustration: Runners are understandably bummed. For many, runDisney at Disneyland is a bucket-list event, and with the races only just back, the timing feels especially tough
Scramble for Spots: If you’re eyeing that 2026 race (or the Coast-to-Coast Challenge), you’ll want to register ASAP—expect demand to be sky-high
Understanding, But Still Sad: While most runners get that construction is necessary, there’s a sense of déjà vu and concern about how long this hiatus will last this time around
Positive Spin: Some runners are using this as extra motivation to train hard and make the 2026 event their best yet. Others are already planning to travel to Walt Disney World or try virtual runDisney events to keep the magic alive
What This Means for New, Recreational, and Returning Runners
If you’re new to running, returning after a break, or just getting your feet wet with race events, here’s what you should know:
Plan your 2026 Running Calendar: If running through Disneyland is on your running bucket list, the 2026 Half Marathon Weekend is still on — there will be a 5K, 10K and Half Marathon.
Run Disney World: If the dates or location doesn’t work for you, consider running a Run Disney race weekend in Orlando, Florida.
Don’t Let the Hiatus Stop You: There are still plenty of ways to stay motivated—local races, virtual events, and of course, Walt Disney World runDisney races are still happening. There are multiple race weekends at Disney World in Orlando that are tons of fun.
A Coach’s Take: Let’s Keep the Magic Going
Look, I get it—this news is a bummer. But if there’s one thing runners are good at, it’s adapting. Whether you’re chasing a PR, running for fun, or just want that sweet castle selfie, the Disneyland Half Marathon is about more than just the medal —it’s about community, accomplishing something hard, and a little bit of pixie dust.
Let’s channel that disappointment into motivation. Train hard, show up big in 2026, and make those miles count. And if you’re feeling the FOMO, remember: the running community is always here to cheer you on—whether you’re running through Main Street, your local park, or even just around the block.
Ready to train for your dream race? Need support, a training plan, or just a running buddy who gets it? I’m here for you. Let’s make every mile magical—no matter where we run!
Keep running, keep smiling, and remember: every finish line is just the beginning of your next adventure!
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