This weekend I got to run the inaugural Halloween Half Marathon at Disneyland, held on September 8th. As someone who adores Disney and has always dreamed of blending my love for running with my passion for all things Disney, this race was a thrilling adventure. In this blog post, I’ll dive into the highs and lows of this unique race experience, offering insights and tips for anyone considering participating in future runDisney events.
The Magic of the First 5 Miles
The Halloween Half Marathon kicked off very early at 5 AM. However, the early start was worth it as the first 5 miles of the race were nothing short of magical. Running through Disneyland Park before it opened to the public was an incredible experience. The park was beautifully decorated for Halloween, with festive decorations and eerie touches around every corner.
You start heading into California Adventure and when I knew I was going to run through Pixar Pier, I could not stop smiling. There were some parts through the backstage sections of Disneyland and California Adventure, but it didn’t take anything away for me. After a mile and half or so through California Adventure, you head into Disneyland.
As we ran past iconic landmarks like Sleeping Beauty Castle and through the familiar streets of Main Street, the atmosphere was electric. This was 100% my favorite part and I struggled with wanting to slow down to soak it in and running faster because I was so happy. The excitement and energy of being in the park while it was still quiet and free from the usual crowds was palpable. Disney cast members were out in full force, cheering us on and adding to the enchanting ambiance of the run.
I did not use any music or headphones during this part to fully soak it in and it was so worth it. I thanked so many of the cast members cheering us on and it was fun to have that connection.
It’s a rare privilege to experience Disneyland in this way, and it made the early wake-up call almost worth it. The combination of Halloween-themed decorations, carefully curated on-course entertainment, and the sheer joy of running through a beloved theme park made these first 5 miles a standout segment of the race.
The Middle 5 Miles: A Dull Detour
However, as we left Disneyland and ventured outside the park, the race took a less exhilarating turn. The middle 5 miles of the course were, unfortunately, a bit of a letdown. Running through the surrounding streets of Anaheim was less engaging compared to the magical atmosphere of the park. While the course was well-marked and safe, the scenery was fairly mundane, which made the miles seem longer and more monotonous. There were a ton of warehouses and just very boring stretches.
The excitement from the first 5 miles faded, and although it was a hot day, the humidity did break around 6am and made for a more bearable finish. Though there were water stations stationed at regular intervals, and volunteers handed out cooling towels at the finish line, the middle section felt like a slog. If you’re someone who thrives on constant stimulation or beautiful scenery, this stretch might feel particularly underwhelming.
The Final 3 Miles: A Fun Finish
Fortunately, the final 3 miles of the race redeemed the experience. As we approached the Ducks Arena and Angels Stadium, the energy picked up again. Running past these iconic sports venues was a nice touch and provided a burst of excitement as we neared the finish line. The course circled back towards Disneyland, and the final stretch was filled with more spectators than anywhere else on the course.
Navigating the Heat and Humidity
One of the major challenges of the Halloween Half Marathon was the weather. It was an exceptionally hot and humid day, which made the run more demanding. Thankfully, the race organizers anticipated these conditions and provided ample water stations throughout the course. The cooling towels at the finish line were a welcome relief and a thoughtful touch that helped cool us down after the race.
If you’re planning to run in similar conditions, make sure to stay hydrated before and during the race, and take advantage of the cooling towels and water stations provided. Wearing moisture-wicking clothing and a good sunscreen can also make a significant difference in your comfort level. I also grabbed a cooling towel at the expo the day before (the high the day of the race was 105!) and that was a lifesaver as I doused it at every aid station.
On-Course Entertainment
One of the standout features of the Halloween Half Marathon was the on-course entertainment. Even outside of the parks, there were themed entertainment and fun surprises that kept the race lively. From Halloween-themed music and spooky decorations to enthusiastic volunteers and entertainment zones, there was a lot to enjoy along the way.
Disney’s attention to detail in providing an engaging and enjoyable race experience was evident, and the entertainment helped keep spirits high, even when the scenery was less exciting.
The Finish Line Celebration: Room for Improvement
While the race experience overall was fantastic, there was one area that could use some improvement—the finish line celebration. After crossing the finish line, I was expecting a grand finale that matched the excitement of the runDisney experience. Instead, the celebration felt somewhat subdued. There were medals, of course, and a few photo ops, but the overall atmosphere didn’t quite match the festive energy I had anticipated.
For a race of this magnitude and with the Disney brand behind it, a more vibrant and engaging finish line celebration would elevate the entire experience. Something that could include more interactive elements, entertainment, or even a themed post-race party would have been a great addition.
Verdict: Worth the Cost for Disney Fans, but Not for Everyone
So, would I recommend the Halloween Half Marathon to fellow runners? As a Disney enthusiast, I found the race to be a dream come true. The opportunity to run through Disneyland, the themed entertainment, and the overall magical atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience. For Disney fans, the charm of running through the park and the Halloween-themed elements are well worth the cost and early wake-up time.
However, if you’re not particularly invested in Disney or if you prefer a more scenic and engaging race course throughout, the middle section of the half marathon might feel like a letdown. The significant chunk of the race outside of the park could be seen as a drawback, and the early start combined with the high price point may not be justifiable for those without a deep appreciation for Disney.
Final Thoughts on the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon
The inaugural Halloween Half Marathon at Disneyland was a thrilling adventure for me as a Disney lover and running enthusiast. While there were aspects that could be improved, such as the middle section of the course and the finish line celebration, the overall experience was magical. The first 5 miles through Disneyland and the final stretch near the sports arenas were highlights that made the race memorable.
If you’re considering participating in a runDisney event and you have a passion for Disney, this race is definitely worth the experience. Just be prepared for an early start, some less exciting middle miles, and a bit of a price tag. For those who are not as enchanted by Disney, you might want to weigh these factors before committing.
I hope this post helps you in your decision-making process for future races and gives you a glimpse into what you can expect from a runDisney event. Until next time, keep running and keep dreaming!
Happy running!
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