January in Orlando: EPCOT Festival of the Arts & Disney Marathon Weekend 2025
EPCOT Festival of the Arts 2025: A Celebration of Creativity
If you're planning to visit Orlando in January 2025, the EPCOT Festival of the Arts at Walt Disney World is an event you won't want to miss. Running from January through February, this colorful festival celebrates the fusion of visual, performing, and culinary arts across the park. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for something memorable to do on your Disney vacation, there's something here for everyone.
Art Displays and Galleries
The festival showcases incredible visual art from around the world, featuring works from both renowned and emerging artists. As you stroll through the World Showcase and Future World, you'll find galleries and displays at every turn.
- Live Art Performances: Watch talented artists create masterpieces in real time, sketching, painting, and sculpting before your eyes.
- Art Exhibitions: View paintings, photography, and sculptures, many available for purchase. A great way to bring home something truly unique.
Culinary Art: Food and Drink as Creative Expression
EPCOT is known for its dining, and the Festival of the Arts takes it further. Unique food studios around the park offer gourmet dishes with visually striking presentations that are as much about the look as the taste.
- Delectable Dishes: Innovative creations with vibrant colors and art-inspired plating.
- Signature Beverages: Beautifully crafted cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks that add a burst of flavor and creativity to your day.
Broadway-Style Performances
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series runs throughout the festival at the America Gardens Theatre, with Broadway stars performing beloved Disney songs. Street performers, actors, dancers, and musicians bring additional energy to EPCOT's scenic backdrop throughout the day.
Interactive Experiences
Want to try your hand at making something? The festival has plenty of hands-on activities.
- Paint by Numbers: Join the giant community mural and help bring a massive piece of artwork to life.
- Hands-on Workshops: Learn to draw, paint, and create your own Disney-inspired artwork.
- Kids' Activities: Kid-friendly art stations and character meet-and-greets keep the little ones engaged throughout the day.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive Early: The park fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Getting there early gives you the best access to performances and food booths.
- Plan Your Meals: The food studios are a highlight. Map out which ones you want to try before you go.
- Take Home Some Art: Many works are available for purchase, so leave a little room in your budget for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
runDisney Marathon Weekend 2025: January 10-13 at Walt Disney World
The runDisney Marathon Weekend is one of the most sought-after events on the running calendar. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a first-timer, racing through the Disney parks is an experience unlike any other. Here's everything you need to know.
Race Schedule
- 5K, Friday Jan 10: A fun, family-friendly start to the weekend.
- 10K, Saturday Jan 11: Run through Walt Disney World Resort and take in the magic.
- Half Marathon, Sunday Jan 12: 13.1 miles through the heart of Disney, with character stops along the way.
- Full Marathon, Monday Jan 13: The full 26.2 miles, passing through all four iconic parks.
- Dopey Challenge: Sign up for all four races and complete 48.6 miles over the weekend.
Course Highlights
The course takes you through EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Along the way you'll find live music, character sightings, and photo ops at every turn.
- EPCOT: Start in the World Showcase with views of the lagoon.
- Magic Kingdom: Run down Main Street U.S.A. past the castle.
- Hollywood Studios: Experience the cinematic energy of the park mid-race.
- Animal Kingdom: Finish through lush greenery and animal exhibits.
Medals and Challenges
- Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge: Run the Half and Full Marathon (39.3 miles total) for the exclusive Goofy medal.
- Dopey Challenge: All four races, 48.6 miles, and multiple medals including the coveted Dopey Challenge medal.
Travel Tips
- Book Your Hotel Early: Disney Resort guests get dedicated bus transport to the start lines, a big advantage for those early morning race times.
- Hydrate and Fuel: Use the water stations on course and bring your own energy gels. Don't wait until you're tired to fuel up.
- Prepare for Chafing: Apply anti-chafing cream before the race on common spots such as thighs, underarms, and feet.
- Stretch and Recover: Free massage stations are available for participants after each race. Use them.
How to Register
Registration opens in July 2024 via the runDisney website. Spots fill fast, especially for the Dopey Challenge, so set a reminder and be ready to book as soon as registration opens.