Runners and Disney fans can start making plans for a springtime race weekend, as runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend returns to Walt Disney World from April 16–20, 2026.
This year’s event will celebrate the theme of friendship, with races inspired by some of Disney’s most beloved duos.
Participants can choose from three main race options, each featuring a different pair of characters. The weekend kicks off with a 5K themed to Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde from Zootopia. A 10K inspired by Winnie the Pooh and Tigger follows, while the 10-mile race highlights Joy and Sadness from Inside Out.
For those looking for an extra challenge, runners can take on a multi-race option inspired by Aladdin and Genie. This challenge combines all three races for a total of 19.3 miles over the course of the weekend.
runDisney Springtime Surprise 5K
- April 17, 2026
- Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
- Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
On April 17, have a ‘hare’-raising time as you speed through 3.1 miles of running fun. Just don’t get busted by bunny cop Judy Hopps or sly fox Nick Wilde. It is currently unknown if carrots will be offered.
runDisney Springtime Surprise 10K
- April 18, 2026
- Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
- Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
On April 18, run, bounce, pounce or trounce your way through 6.2 miles during this hunny of a 10K featuring Winnie the Pooh and Tigger. If bounding as Pooh, please wear pants.
runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler
- April 19, 2026
- Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
- Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
On April 19, who knows which set of emotions you’ll experience as you take on 10 miles with Joy and Sadness…though maybe we just covered two of them.
runDisney Springtime Surprise Challenge
- April 17 – 19, 2026
- Start Time: 5:00 AM Eastern Time
- Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
Finish all three races for a total of 19.3 miles and receive a fourth Challenge medal featuring Aladdin and Genie. Note that the utilization of magic lamps and flying carpets will be considered cheating.
As with past runDisney events, the races will include more than just miles on the course. Participants can expect character sightings, entertainment along the route, and themed moments designed to keep runners motivated from start to finish. There will also be a post-race yoga session available for those looking to stretch and recover after the weekend’s events.
Finishers of each race will receive a themed medal, with an additional medal awarded to those who complete the full challenge.
More than just the races, this weekend is really about the community. Runners of all levels come together to cheer each other on, have fun, and soak in a little Disney magic along the way.
