It’s not being called a meet-up, but if it looks like one, sounds like one, is set up like one, chances are it is one. But this runDisney “meet-up” is going to cost you.
Free is a thing of the past. In true Disney fashion, they realized they could make money- even more money- on an event that once cost them. $89 for this event. Um, that’s not cheap. A park ticket isn’t much more and you get a whole day of rides not just Soarin’.
I’m skeptical that this is “worth” it. Like my friend April said, “And somewhere a little bit of magic just died…”
You know how much I loved the meet-ups I was lucky enough to attend. Part of that was that the magic was provided FREELY by the runDisney organization. But maybe I need to withhold my judgment until the event is held. I’m sure there will be bloggers invited as guests that will be able to let us know.
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Is this simply a natural progression or is runDisney stepping in the public relations poo with this move?
Patty Holliday has been running Disney since 2011. She knows just about every tip, trick, and hack there is to cover the runDisney Magical Miles at Disney World and Disneyland. She knows every mile isn’t *always* magical- but with training, tips, and a little bit of pixie dust, they can be a lot of fun! You can also find her at noguiltlife.com and noguiltfangirl.com
foodfitnessfantasy.com
Tuesday 4th of February 2014
I couldn't believe this when I saw it, and hardly think paying $89 would be worth it ... and my incredulity went through the roof when I saw it sold out before the Disneyland Half did! That being said, I attended the meetup for the 2013 Wine & Dine Half Marathon — what was very likely the last free runDisney meetup ever — and parts of that event left a lot to be desired, and the clique-y ness of it was almost intolerable. So, as ridiculous as paid meetups are, I think it might be better that they're moving in this direction.
Anonymous
Wednesday 29th of January 2014
If I can get into the Expo an hour early just to buy shoes...it will be worth it! At Tinker Bell I signed up, then waited 4 hours for a time to buy a pair of New Balance Cinderella shoes for my Daughter. That's Crazy!!!
Tara
Wednesday 29th of January 2014
Honestly, I don't like it. runDisney seems to be going the way of the RnR series - all money, no focus on the runner. And how many people are going to pay the $89 just for the early entry into the expo, thus making buying merchandise even harder?
Even with that, I would have considered it, but it would mean *another* night in a hotel. Can't do it. Guess all the lucky (money-laden) kids will get all the cool stuff. I LOVE Disney races...only one in all the world compares, but I am quickly becoming turned off by the money machine they're becoming. I can't be alone, either. It's going to explode at some point, I think.
Lesley
Tuesday 28th of January 2014
I feel this is an airline... rD has decided to nickel and dime everyone when they get a chance. What's next, will I have to pay to use the bathroom at the expos (oh, I shouldn't give them any ideas). $89 + whatever the merchandise price tag is.
Laura Bowers
Tuesday 28th of January 2014
$89?? Wow, yeah, that wouldn't be worth it for me. I *might* pay ... oh, $30 to $40 just to experience it once and be able to shop stress free, but certainly not $89.