The happy haunts materialized for the all-new Halloween-themed runDisney race at Disneyland in early September. If it renturns in 2025, gather your best ghoulfriends for a grim, grinning good time. Here's everything you need to know about the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon based on the 2024 event. Is this your first runDisney Disneyland race? We have everything you need to know! Here's when and where to pick up your bib, when to arrive and where spectators can cheer on the racers. Plus, we have some hopful tips and planning advice.
Overview of the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon 2024
The Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend took place Sept. 5-8, 2024. The races and yoga events always take place in the early morning each day and are completed before park opening (expcet for the Half Marathon which is out of the parks well before park opening. Even though the events may take participants through the theme parks, everyone exits the park before official park opening. If you want to stay and play in the parks, you'll need to get a theme park ticket and reservation. Buy theme park tickets and reserve early as these dates can fill up in advance!
Besides being healthy good fun, the race supports a great cause. RunDisney makes a donation to the Anaheim Community Foundation. The Foundation provides children, families and residents in need with critical support to address food insecurity, mental health services, emergency rental/utility assistance, workforce development and at-risk youth intervention.
Are you running one of the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon weekend races this September? This runDisney race weekend went on sale at 7 a.m. PT on Feb. 13, 2024, and sold out within about an hour. Yes, runDisney bibs disappear in a scary fast way. If you want to run a future race, hop over to our post on how to register for runDisney races for future on-sale dates and hopful tips on scoring a bib.
Race Bibs
Speaking of bibs, each participant wears an assigned race bib. You must pick it up at least the day before from the Expo (more on that below). Wear the bib centered on the front of your outermost garment. The bib needs to be:
- Clearly visible on the front of the torso
- Unaltered and unmodified (do not fold, wrinkle or iron)
- Pinned in all four corners (Pins come with your race short at the Expo.)
- Not covered with shirts, jackets, cold weather gear, runner belts, water bottles, etc.
If a participant is seen without a bib number while running on the course, they will be removed from the course.
The letter on the bib will determine the assigned start group, or corral. You cannot make start group changes at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. Be sure to fill out the emergency medical information on the back of the bib. You'll also find instructions on linking your bib number to PhotoPass in the Disneyland app. All the race photos are included!
Keeping Up With the Pace
Racers must maintain a minimum of 16-minute-per-mile pace for the Half Marathon and 10K. RunDisney recommends a training pace of 15 minutes per mile. You may want to train faster so you can budget time in for bathroom breaks and seeing characters or taking photos. The 5K is not timed so you can relax and make those character stops if you want to.
Pace cyclists on the course indicate when runners are behind pace by waving a red flag at each mile marker according to the official pace time. If you reach a mile marker with a red flag waving, you are behind the required 16-minute-per-mile pace and can be picked up at any time and transported to the course pick-up tent.
Balloon Ladies take off at the end of the last corral and they run at a 16-minute mile pace. Each corral takes off five minutes after the corral before. So, if you have an earlier corral, you have extra time to play with.
Costumes and Themed Attire
Costumes — it's what happens when a runDisney race and Halloween Time collide. Naturally, you are going to see a lot of costumes and themed attire on the course. Make sure you test it out on practice runs to make sure it holds up and is comfortable. You can dress for the theme of your race, Halloween or Disney in general ... or not at all. No pressure. Disney Parks Blog offers instructions for making a DIY Foolish Runner shirt. You can dress as your favorite character, but you can be removed for inappropriate attire that does not meet the guidelines.
Follow these costume guidelines:
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
- Participants 14 and older may not wear costume masks of any kind.
- Runners 13 and younger may wear costume masks. However, the participant’s eyes must be visible, and the mask may not cover the participant’s entire face.
- Participants who dress like characters may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests except as expressly requested and authorized by runDisney.
- Costumes may not drag on the ground.
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another participant.
- Costumes may not contain any weapons which resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- No layered costumes, such as ball gowns, hoop skirts, those that have an infrastructure with metal components or hard edges. No costumes that do not follow the natural contour of the human body, and/or costumes that could conceal prohibited items.
- Layered clothing, including tutus over running shorts, cold-weather gear such as sweatshirts or sweatpants, and clothing that follows the natural contour of the body are permitted unless they present a safety hazard (e.g. dragging on the ground).
- No costumes or large props that present a safety hazard (e.g. King Triton’s trident). Do not wear costumes that surround the entire body (such as cardboard, plastic or other wearable items with hard edges), are inflatable or that physically connect multiple participants to each other.
- Small, inflatable or soft-bodied, handheld props (e.g. an inflatable Toy Story ball) are permitted.
- Tutus, transparent wings and hats or headwear are permitted, as long as they do not cover the participant’s face. Capes cannot go below the waist.
- Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts and hats are acceptable.
- If you plan on visiting the theme parks or Downtown Disney after the race, make sure you have clothes that fit the stricter theme park costume guidelines or something to change into.
Participants who do not follow the guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, a runDisney event unless they can modify it to meet the above standards.
PhotoPass
Unlimited downloads are included. To link your photos, visit this link. You'll then be prompted to log in at Disneyland.com/PhotoPass. Select "Link Photos," and enter your 16-digit code, which is the 11-digit RaceID, plus your 5-digit bib number. If your bib number is less than 5 digits, add zeros before your bib number to fill in the remaining numbers.
Here are this year's race IDs. Replace the x's with your bib number — and zeros if needed — to complete the code:
- runDisney Kids Races: 2024-HHMW-KIDx-xxxx
- Disneyland Halloween 5K: 2024-HHMW-D5Kx-xxxx
- Disneyland Halloween 10K: 2024-HHMW-10Kx-xxxx
- Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon: 2024-HHMW-HLFx-xxxx
Do not include the hyphens.
Having trouble linking? Try removing the dashes in the codes above. You can link up to 5 runDisney bib numbers per race. Event photos should appear within 48 hours after the race.
Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Races and Events
Rise and shine early for this swinging wake-up call in the dead of the night. I didn't mean to frighten you, but you'll need to get up scary early for these early morning races. Here are the race/yoga themes and times as well as when security opens for each event (TBD). Security lines can get long, so you want to arrive early. You don't want to be dead last to arrive, do you? Get there and take time to stretch and get into your corral.
This spooktacular weekend combines the festiveness of Halloween Time at Disneyland with the classic runDisney fun. Featuring yoga, kids races, spooky challenges and more, it's a perfect addition to the Halloween season.
Get those race outfits ready. Each event has a different theme. We've left prices up until the 2025 race races and prices are announced so you can plan ahead and determine if this race is within your budget for next year.
Some Seriously Goofy Yoga — Sept. 5, 2024, 5 a.m., for $130
Stretch those muscles with a stunning view of the Sleeping Beauty Castle before the weekend kicks off.
- Participants must be 10 years old or older. Tadpoles under 14 must be accompanied by a guest 14 or older.
- Guests must exit the park after the event and have a valid park ticket and reservation to re-enter,
- Yoga location is subject to change. The actual location within the activity area is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- It's a one-hour, instructor-led yoga experience
- Participants get a yoga mat, water, special photo opportunities and unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken throughout the event. Use the Disneyland app for PhotoPass.
Here's the timeline of the morning:
- 3 a.m. — The Mickey & Friends parking structure opens
- 3:30 a.m. — Security checkpoints open
- 3:45 to 4:45 a.m. — Check-in
- 5 to 6 a.m. — Yoga
Participants must exit the park when yoga ends.
Disneyland Halloween 5K — Sept. 6, 2024, for $120
Run alongside hosts Chip 'n Dale during this delightful 3.1-mile themed race. Participants must be 5 years old or older and complete the race on their own. This is a great race if you are not a fast runner. They don't remove you for going too slow.
The course takes you from the Hub of Disneyland to the finish line near Goofy's Sky School in Disney California Adventure with entertainment and characters along the way. Look out for projections on the Matterhorn, "it's a small world" and the castle.
Unless you are striving for your personal best, don't stress about stopping to take photos with characters.
Here is the timeline of the morning:
- 3 a.m. — The Mickey & Friends parking structure opens
- 3:30 a.m. — Security checkpoints open
- 4 a.m. — Staging area and corrals open
- 5 a.m. — Race starts
- 5:15 — Start line closes
Disneyland Halloween 10K — Sept. 7, 2024, for $175
Join a plethora of friendly ghosts, including the infamous Hatbox Ghost, for just over six miles of hoppy haunts during this race. The race course takes you through the parks and through some of the Anaheim city area. Start is on Disney Way. The finish line is in the parking lot where you checked your bag in the morning. Participants must be 10 years old or older. Starting placement is based on your anticipated pace per mile (stated when you register) and start group capacities.
Here is the timeline of the morning:
- 3 a.m. — The Toy Story parking lot opens
- 3:30 a.m. — Security checkpoints open
- 4 a.m. — Family reunion area and corrals open
- 5 a.m. — Race starts
- 5:25 — Start line closes
Disneyland Resort hotel guests can take shuttles (with room key) to and from the race on Sept. 7-8 from 3:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. But we do not recommend relying on them as they can get delayed due to road closures and make you late to the race. Walking is a better idea. Here is the shuttle route:
- Disneyland Hotel
- Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
- East Shuttle Area (near Harbor Blvd, between theme parks)
- DVC Cheering Section at Angels Stadium (Sunday only beginning at 4:30 a.m.)
- East Shuttle Area (near Harbor Blvd, between theme parks)
This race takes you through both theme parks with Haunted Mansion (and other) characters along the way. Look for signs and even parade floats or characters from the Frightfully Fun Parade!
Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon — Sept. 8, 2024, for $260
Embark on a spellbinding journey (of a little over 13 miles) with Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow as the Sanderson Sisters. Participants must be 14 years old or older. The course weaves through Disneyland Resort and the surrounding area. In 2024, it took runners through Angel Stadium! The Start and Finish are on or near Disney Way.
You need to submit proof of time for this race or you'll be in the last start group. Proof of time must come from an officially timed race on a USATF-certified course reflecting recent results.
Here is the timeline of the morning:
- 3 a.m. — The Toy Story parking lot opens
- 3:30 a.m. — Security checkpoints open
- 4 a.m. — Family reunion area and corrals open
- 5 a.m. — Race starts
- 5:35 — Start line closes
Chills & Thrills Challenge — Sept. 7-8, 2024, for $440
This special challenge is hosted by Jack Skellington, Sally and Zero. They dare participants to complete both the 10K and Half Marathon on pace. You earn a special medal if you succeed! Participants must be 14 years old or older.
“Git-R-Done” Runs for Younger Ones — Sept. 7, 2024, for $40
This series of races is specifically for kids 9 years old or younger. Tadpoles can win a unique medal when they participate in these events. Parents are allowed to hop along with their tadpoles, but only registered children receive a finisher medallion.
This race is hosted by characters from Disney and "Cars." The family can enjoy an activity village with a DJ.
Kids Races are broken down by the following age groups:
- Babies 0-1: Diaper Dash
- Toddlers 1-3: 100-meter dash
- Ages 4-6: 200-meter dash
- Ages 7-9: 300-meter dash
The family reunion area is located off Disney Way. The parent claim tag is at the top of the race bib.
Here is the timeline of the morning:
- 8:30 a.m. — Activity Zone opens
- 8:45 a.m. — 100-meter staging
- 9 a.m. — 100-meter dash begins and 200-meter staging
- 9:20 — 200-meter dash begins
- 9:25 — 300-meter staging
- 9:40 — 300-meter dash begins
- 10 a.m. — Diaper Dash staging
- 10:10 — Diaper Dash begins
- 10:30 Kids Races conclude
In 2024, the times got moved to earlier due to heat advisories. Keep an eye out for changes to the schedule so you don't miss out.
Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend Expo
Here is where to find the latest information about the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. Each participant must pick up their own bib (at Disneyland Hotel) one day prior to the race. (Parents can pick up for minors.) Bring a valid ID (such as a driver's license, passport, military ID or government-issued ID) and your Expo Check-in Pass (via My Disney account or email) in order to pick up your race bib. After you get your bib, head down to get your shirt and experience the rest of the Expo.
The expo hours are posted closer to the event. Keep in mind that Saturday's expo closes early. So definitely plan to arrive by Saturday afternoon to get the bibs for Sunday's events.
- Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (There is a virtual queue this day only to purchase merchandise. You can join it in the Disneyland app. Select "Special Events.")
- Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, at 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Expo Parking is $10 (with Check-in Pass) at the Pixar Pals parking structure.
The structure opens at these times:
- Thursday, Sept. 5: 7:30 a.m.
- Friday, Sept. 6: 8 a.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 7: 8 a.m.
You can be dropped off at the rideshare pick-up/drop-off area on Downtown Drive.
gEAR Bag Check
A gEAR Bag Check is available for the Half Marathon, 10K and 5K. You'll receive a clear plastic bag at race shirt pick-up for gEAR Bag Check service. It comes with pins for your bib. But make sure they are in there. The gEAR Bag Check accepts no other bag. But you can wear other bags during the race.
Write your bib number on the bag. When you complete the race, your bib number will be used to verify your bag when you pick it up. Do not check valuable items. The staff is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen items.
the gEar Bag check is here:
- 5K: Near the stroller shop
- 10K and Half Marathon: Northwest corner of family reunion area (in the big trucks).
Even if you do not plan to check items bring your bag with you. It is hopful to have it after the race. You receive bottled drinks, a banana, a box of snacks, a medal or two and sometimes other items (such as candy). It's hard to juggle it all, so that bag really comes in handy.
Spectator Information for the Halloween Half Marathon
Here is where to watch loved ones and cheer them on (along with other hopful deets).
- 5K: 4:30 to 6:15 a.m. near the finish line in Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Park and in the Esplanade. To access the finish line, enter the park through the gate near World of Disney.
- 10K: Located along Harbor Blvd. and Katella Ave., Family Reunion Area and Esplanade.
- Half Marathon: Located along Harbor Blvd. and Katella Ave., Family Reunion Area and Esplanade as well as the Angel Stadium parking lot (access lot through Orangewood Ave.)
You can bring signs, but do not hand food or drink to athletes on the course. Track your runner here. You can even make a sign at the Expo!
More Halloween Fun Hoppening During the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend
The Halloween Half Marathon takes place during Halloween Time. It's one of our favorite times to visit Disneyland.
The parks are festively decorated, villains are out and about, characters wear costumes, and there are some fun Halloween ride layovers you do not want to miss. With all that running, you might work up an appetite for some special Halloween treats! Hop over to our blog post to learn all about Halloween Time at Disneyland. and check out our foodie guide, which we will update with this year's ghoulishly good treats closer to the start of Halloween Time. Be sure to purchase theme park tickets in advance and make those park reservations ASAP! Race weekend will fill up quickly.
Planning and Tips for the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon
Here are some things you need to know for the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon weekend.
Hotel Stays
If you want to stay near the action and possibly avoid parking, you'll need a hotel room. If you have not booked one yet, what are you waiting for? Do it now. You can get a screamin' deal on a hotel room through Undercover Tourist. That's where we booked our race weekend room months in advance and saved hundreds of dollars a night! You can stay on-site (check out these benefits of staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel) or at a nearby hotel for less.
After the race, it's nice to have a close hotel for showering and changing. Then you can relax or hit the parks!
Park Tickets
If you want to visit the theme parks after the race or during race weekend, you can purchase in advance. Undercover Tourist has hoppin' deals on multi-day theme park tickets. As soon as you get your tickets, link them and make your theme park reservations ASAP! Race weekend reservations will fill up early. You will want to take photos with your medal(s) in the park and take advantage of special race Magic Shots from PhotoPass photographers.
Early Entry
Usually, early entry takes place at Disney California Adventure on Fridays and Disneyland Park on Saturdays — but the opposite will be true on Sept. 6 and 7, 2024, due to the races. Early entry is not affected by yoga or the Half Marathon. However, the parks will open an hour later (at 9 a.m.) on Sunday for the Half Marathon day.
Weather
If you are not familiar with SoCal, early September is one of the hottest times of the year. Temperatures can reach the triple digits midday. Luckily the race is at the coolest time of the day, in the early morning. But be prepared for a dry heat during the day but early morning humidity. Dress and hydrate accordingly. Plan some pool time or AC time after the race
Tips
- Buy theme park tickets early and make those park reservations before they fill up.
- Book a nearby hotel early. (Note hotel locations on the map.)
- Pick up your bib at least the day before.
- Arrive at the starting line early. Security lines can get long.
- Avoid parking if you can, as parking on race day starts at $35. Walk from your hotel or use the Disney Resort shuttle for on-site hotel guests (but take the first shuttle before the roads close).
- Find out about refreshments here.
- Get additional information about race weekend on the Expo page.
- Wear clothes for hot weather that do not chafe.
- Athletes with disabilities will have their bib on their back. Be sure to give other runners adequate space!
- Stay hydrated.
- Enjoy Halloween Time at Disneyland!
- Portable restrooms are located at the start line, near water stops in the finish area. Guest restrooms inside the theme parks are open to runners.
- Bring a small hand towel or washcloth to help wipe your face and hands.
- Look for pop-up tents as your cue that a PhotoPass stop is near.
- Bring a small fanny pack with extra water — think light and out of the way, but we really appreciated the extra hydration between water stops.
- Have fun!
Are you running the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon? You can save some green on Disneyland multi-day theme park tickets and hotel stays for on-site and surrounding hotels from your favorite froggy friends.
Related: Our Step-by-Step Guide to runDisney Disneyland Events
Related: How to Register for runDisney Races
Hoppy planning!
