I flew into Orlando from CA on Tuesday of race week and stayed at my parents’ house about 10 minutes from the Magic Kingdom. On Wednesday, we headed to bib pickup at Wide World of Sports. With so many helpful volunteers, it’s easy to get directions to your correct pickup location and then continue to the expo. In addition to the expo booths there’s also Disney Marathon merchandise in a separate building. We had such a wonderful time meandering through and stopping for photo opportunities. The next few days I participated in the 5k, 10k, and half marathon as part of the Dopey Challenge. Sunday was the big day, marathon day! My husband drove me to the Epcot parking lot and dropped me off by 3am, before they close the parking lots. It was super cold this year so I brought my Mylar blanket and throwaway clothes. 2018 was the same weather wise. It’s around 30 degrees but feels colder because of the humidity and breeze. There’s an entertainment stage, coffee to purchase, and character photo opps if you arrive early. I take advantage of the porta-a-potties at this area since there’s a lot. Next, head through bag check and walk (about .5 mile) to the corrals. Everything is well organized and the start waves were continuously moving so before you know it you’re crossing the timing mat. I was in corral C and started 7 minutes after the elites/corral A. The first several miles are dark but still fun! I stopped at all the character stops and they were fast, just enough to catch my breath. I like to run down Main Street USA while it’s still dark (mile 5ish), the lights and castle are a real sight! There’s nothing like running through the Magic Kingdom! By mile 7 you’re out of the park, it feels colder but the sun is rising so enjoy that cool air. Not much to see until Animal Kingdom around mile 12-13. Fun but short. In 2018, I used a real restroom at this point! By mile 15 your in the back roads of Disney. Lots of aid stations with water, Gatorade, bananas and sports beans around mile 17. Once you reach miles 19-22 it’s hot! 80 degrees. You can find sponges of cold water in WWOS. Lots of fun characters, bands, and “chear” squads during the whole race. When you get to mile 23, indulge in some chocolate treats as you run through Hollywood Studios and down the boardwalk towards the finish line! So much excitement at the finish, crowds of runners, families, volunteers... Pick up your Mylar blanket (if needed), Mickey ears, boxed snack, challenge medals and head towards gear check in the .25 mile chute. You can meet family at this point, take more character photos, and purchase champagne! Hubby parked close in the Epcot lot and we headed toward the exit with minimal traffic considering the crowds. I love running Disney and would definitely recommend it for beginners as well as experienced runners. The courses are very flat. The price tag is hefty but you get what you pay for. The hardest part of the weekend is the early morning start times (5:30am) which means you’ll be waking up at 2:30. If you’re doing a challenge, that could be four early mornings! Add in the jet lag and tourism and you’ll need a rest when it’s all over. Also, get creative and wear a costume, most people do! Enjoy the happiest race on Earth!