Start with a sunrise 5K in costume, add a social 10K with better photo flow, then stir in a half marathon that put course design under the microscope. That’s the arc of this Wine and Dine weekend—equal parts magic, logistics, and heart. We walk you through the expo’s new rhythms , a refreshed core runDisney merch line with some questionable shirt cuts, and the small tweaks that make or break a big weekend when sleep is scarce and plans are tight.

From Moana-and-Maui family fun to smart walk-run comebacks, the 5K and 10K reminded us why these miles feel so welcoming. We share how the 10K’s streamlined finisher photos and steady water stops kept the vibe smooth, even without electrolytes on course. Then we get candid about the half: the narrow out-and-back to Blizzard Beach that packed two-way traffic on one side, frayed tempers, and raised safety concerns. We talk heat, hydration gaps inside the parks, and where an extra aid station near Tower of Terror could change the day. Along the way, we spotlight wins that matter—stomach issues managed with grit, an age-80 finish powered by training and belief, and PRs earned in sticky weather.

What tied it all together? Community. Our Disney Springs meetup turned buttons and cookies into new friendships, and Myra’s legendary bus energy somehow wrangled a flawless group photo. Out on the course, familiar cheers, shared pacing, and quick humor turned long miles into memorable ones. If you care about runDisney tips, course strategy, expo intel, and how to build a better race weekend, you’ll find plenty here to steal for your next start line.

If this recap helped, follow the show on your favorite app, share it with a runDisney friend, and drop us a quick rating or review. Then tell us: keep this half course, or time for a rethink?

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