Just in time for Walt Disney World’s Marathon Weekend, runDisney has announced changes to their costuming guidelines and security procedures. These changes go into effect Jan. 6, 2016, and are being implemented to further protect Guests and Cast Members.
Not surprising in light of the recent security changes at the Disney parks: metal detectors, more thorough searches All this was likely already in the works before the guy tried to sneak a gun into the Magic Kingdom (dummy!)
So here are the new rules on costumes and at runDisney events:
Costumes at runDisney events
“Disney reserves the right to deny admission to or remove any person wearing attire that is considered inappropriate or attire that could detract from the experience of other Guests. All participants and their Guests may dress as their favorite character, but must follow these guidelines as determined solely by Disney.
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
- Guests who dress like Characters may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other Guests.
- Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest.
- For runDisney participants ages 13 and under:
- Costumes and some masks may be worn, as long the mask does not cover the entire face and eyes are visible.
- For runDisney participants ages 14 and older:
- Layered costumes, that could conceal prohibited items, are not permitted (e.g. Jedi robes).
- Costume props, including those that surround the entire body (e.g. Death Star, UP House) are not permitted.
- Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground. (e.g. full-length Princess dresses)
- Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist.
- Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts, and hats are acceptable.
- Acceptable accessories include: transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords, and tutus. Headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face.
- Guests may not wear masks of any kind.
Please note that while costumed attire may be worn during runDisney events, Guests 14 and older are not permitted to wear costumed attire in the theme parks. As a result, Guests may need to change their attire prior to visiting the parks after participating in a runDisney race.
Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, a race or any race related event/activity unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards.”
What Do You Think?
Frankly, I think these changes will diminish some of the fun spirit and energy at runDisney races. (I’m thinking of you, running Churro.) While I was never one to do an elaborate costume, it is JOY-ful to see all the creativity and talent on display.
Most affected races will likely be the Star Wars themed ones due to prohibition against Jedi robes and Darth Vader capes. Then again, I don’t think I would want to run with a cape on! As Edna Mode says in The Incredibles,
Hopefully I am wrong in this and will be quickly corrected by my friends participating in the runDisney festivities over the next few weekends for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (Jan. 6-10) and Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland (January 14-17). After all, it’s not like they banned costumes at these races. That would cause a riot for sure.
Have you ever dressed up for one of these races? Or will this affect your decision to participate in future runDisney events? Just curious!
Sherry