Hey Disney Vacationers! Here’s the news: runDisney races at Disneyland are going on pause again after early 2026. The final event before the break will be the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, scheduled for January 28 to February 1, 2026, with registration opening April 29, 2025.
This pause doesn’t come with a return date. And if you’re a runDisney regular — especially one chasing the Coast-to-Coast Medal — this is your signal to act now. Let’s get into what’s going on, why it’s happening, and what it means for the runDisney community.
The Official Word from runDisney
“Due to upcoming construction impacts, runDisney races at the resort will be placed on hiatus in 2026 after the conclusion of the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend… we will be unable to provide guests with the race experience that our participants have come to expect from our events.”
Translation: there’s too much construction coming to keep the course magical, safe, or even logistically functional.
What’s Causing the Pause?
Big Picture: Construction Is Taking Over the Resort
Here’s a breakdown of the projects reshaping the entire Disneyland footprint:
- Avengers Campus Expansion
Two major attractions — Stark Flight Lab and Avengers Infinity Defense — could break ground as early as late 2025. This area connects to backstage race paths frequently used in runDisney layouts. - Coco Boat Ride
Construction for this new attraction in Disney California Adventure begins in 2026. This adds barriers near park entrance corridors and backstage areas, complicating race route planning. - Avatar Experience
This brand-new land is expected to take up significant real estate. That’s a long-term project with heavy equipment, large construction zones, and noise restrictions. - DisneylandForward Project
This is the biggest factor. Approved in May 2024, this project will overhaul roads, pedestrian paths, and backstage logistics. One notable impact: Magic Way, a key access road for the Pixar Pals Parking Structure and Disneyland Hotel, will be removed entirely. That road is heavily used for race day arrivals and transportation coordination.
runDisney races aren’t just about running down Main Street, U.S.A. — they rely on behind-the-scenes staging areas, smooth course design, and guest safety. All of that gets exponentially harder with construction in every direction.
Why This Hits Hard: The Coast-to-Coast Medal
If you’ve been eyeing a Coast-to-Coast medal, now’s your moment.
What Is It?
The Coast-to-Coast Race Challenge Medal is a unique reward earned by completing:
- One eligible race at Walt Disney World (half marathon, full marathon, or 10-miler)
- One eligible Disneyland race
- In the same runDisney race calendar year
You don’t get this medal just for showing up. You earn it. And with Disneyland races going back on pause, 2026 will be the last chance to earn it until runDisney returns to California — whenever that might be.
This medal became a major part of runDisney’s identity. It represents commitment, cross-country dedication, and a full-circle fan experience. And for many runners, it’s the final piece of their display shelf.
This Isn’t the First Time
Let’s rewind. This already happened once.
- 2018: Disneyland runDisney events paused due to Avengers Campus construction.
- 2020–2022: COVID added years to the break.
- 2024: Races finally returned with sky-high demand. The Half Marathon Weekend sold out instantly. Disneyland added a second race weekend in the fall — a Halloween-themed event that thrilled returning fans.
- 2026: After just three years back, another pause.
runDisney fans who waited nearly six years for races to return are now looking at another indefinite break. That’s not just frustrating — it’s emotional.
What This Means for the Community
This isn’t just about medals. It’s about memories.
For West Coast locals, runDisney races are a tradition. For families, it’s a way to bond through fitness and Disney fandom. And for many who can’t travel cross-country, Disneyland races are their only chance to be part of the magic.
The return of races in 2024 felt like a celebration. The Halloween event in 2025 added a new seasonal vibe. The community showed up, again and again. And just like that — it’s being taken off the calendar.
This pause hits harder than before. There was so much momentum.
A Quick Timeline Recap
Here’s the full history at a glance:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2018 | runDisney events paused at Disneyland |
| 2020 | Avengers Campus construction continued |
| 2020–2022 | COVID delays any return |
| 2024 | Disneyland runDisney races return with high demand |
| 2025 | Halloween-themed race weekend added |
| 2026 | Events paused again after Half Marathon Weekend (Jan 28–Feb 1) |
What Can You Do Next?
- Mark January 28–February 1, 2026 as your last shot (for now) at a Disneyland race.
- Set a reminder for April 29, 2025 — registration day.
- Complete a qualifying race at Walt Disney World in 2026 to earn the Coast-to-Coast medal.
- Consider virtual races or WDW events to stay in the runDisney community until Disneyland returns.
This isn’t a goodbye — it’s a break. But if this race matters to you, don’t wait for “next year.” That option won’t be there.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever dreamed of running through Sleeping Beauty Castle with the sunrise at your back, now’s the time to make that dream real. The 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend is more than just another runDisney event — it’s a sendoff.
With no return date on the calendar and heavy construction ahead, this isn’t just a scheduling change — it’s a pause in tradition. And while Walt Disney World and virtual races will keep the magic alive, nothing truly replaces the Disneyland experience.
Whether you’re chasing your first Coast-to-Coast Medal or just one last race in Anaheim, 2026 is the year to do it. Don’t wait. Mark your calendar. Set that registration reminder. And show up ready.
Because after this one… we wait.
FAQ: runDisney Disneyland Events Paused
Q: Why are runDisney races at Disneyland being paused again?
A: Major construction at Disneyland, including new attractions and the DisneylandForward project, will disrupt race logistics and guest experience.
Q: When is the last Disneyland runDisney race before the pause?
A: The 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, January 28 to February 1, 2026.
Q: When does registration open for that event?
A: April 29, 2025.
Q: What is the Coast-to-Coast Medal and how do I earn it?
A: It’s awarded to runners who complete an eligible race at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World in the same runDisney year.
Q: Will runDisney races return to Disneyland after 2026?
A: There’s no official return date announced.
Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?
Your Disney vacation should create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a first-time Disney vacationer or looking to plan your next magical adventure, it isn’t enough just to go on a Disney vacation. We want you to talk about your vacation for years to come and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Vacation is calling! Are you ready to answer?
Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
LAST UPDATED: