Disneyland Fails to Open at Regular Operational Hours, Ticketed Guests Held at Entry

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, Disneyland Resort opened one hour later than usual — at 9:00 AM PST — to accommodate the thousands of runners participating in the second annual runDisney Halloween Half Marathon Weekend. The event, which officially kicked off on September 4 and ran through the 7th, brought with it a wave of excitement, costumes, and early-morning street closures… as well as some logistical headaches for unsuspecting guests hoping to start their day at the usual 8:00 AM park opening.

The delayed opening time was not a random scheduling shift, but a direct result of the half marathon race, which took over Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the surrounding areas during the early hours of the morning. While this brought a fun, high-energy start to the day for race participants, it also meant a delayed entry for day guests — many of whom only learned of the change after arriving at the gates.

Why Did Disneyland Open Late Today?

Every September, runDisney hosts themed races across the Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts. This year’s Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend was centered around iconic Disney villains, with runners choosing between the Ursula 5K, Cruella De Vil 10K, and Maleficent’s 13.1-mile half marathon. For guests participating in the “Pain and Panic” Challenge, that meant completing both the 10K and half marathon back-to-back over the weekend.

The main event — the half marathon — was held on Sunday morning and required a large portion of the Disneyland Resort area to be closed off to pedestrians and vehicles for several hours. Because the course winds through Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, the parks needed extra time to safely transition from a race route to a fully-operational theme park environment.

This is why Disneyland Park opened at 9:00 AM, instead of its previously posted 8:00 AM start time.

Guest Reactions Were Mixed

For runDisney fans and participants, the later park opening wasn’t a surprise — they’ve come to expect early-morning exclusivity during race weekends. But for regular park guests, particularly those visiting on single-day tickets or tight itineraries, the delayed start caused some understandable frustration.

While Disneyland Resort did post updated hours on its official website, many casual guests were unaware until arriving at security or seeing the notices posted at the gates. Some took to social media to share their disappointment, noting that rising ticket prices and reduced operating hours continue to be a sore spot for many.

Not the Only Hour Change This Month

Disneyland’s modified hours this morning are part of a larger seasonal trend. Beginning Sunday, August 31, both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure began closing earlier than usual — a pattern expected to continue throughout the fall.

Current operating hours now reflect:

• Disneyland Park: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM

• Disney California Adventure: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

These updated hours were not specifically linked to the half marathon, but rather part of a shift tied to seasonal attendance patterns, staffing adjustments, and upcoming Halloween events like the Oogie Boogie Bash, which causes Disney California Adventure to close early on select nights in September and October.

Every Mile Is Magic — For Some

Despite the scheduling hiccups, the runDisney event has been largely celebrated. Themed medals, costumed characters along the race path, and the immersive, villainous flair of this year’s Halloween theme gave runners plenty to enjoy. Participants earned medals featuring the likes of Maleficent, Ursula, and Cruella — each designed with that signature runDisney touch.

Other weekend events included:

• Kids’ Races, hosted by Captain Hook

• Morning yoga sessions, led by the Queen of Hearts

• Character meet-and-greets and surprise entertainment along the race courses

And for those who completed the combined 10K and half marathon challenge, a bonus medal featuring Pain and Panicfrom Hercules was awarded — a coveted trophy for returning runners.

Should Guests Be Upset?

Short answer: It depends on your expectations.

For seasoned Disney fans, especially those familiar with runDisney weekends, a one-hour delay in opening is part of the ebb and flow of event-based operations. These weekends have become increasingly popular, drawing fitness-minded Disney fans from all over the country.

However, for first-time visitors or families on a tight schedule, a one-hour delay — especially if unexpected — can throw off plans for Genie+ reservations, rope-drop strategies, and early dining.

How to Avoid Surprises Like This in the Future

To keep your Disney day on track, even amid unpredictable schedule changes, here are a few key tips:

• Always check park hours on the official Disneyland app or website before your visit. Don’t assume that every day opens and closes the same.

• Watch for special event dates like runDisney races, the Oogie Boogie Bash, or after-hours events. These often impact operating hours.

• If you’re planning on rope-dropping (arriving before opening to be among the first inside), double-check if the park is operating on a modified schedule.

• Consider booking dining reservations later in the morning or afternoon during special event weekends, just in case delays occur.

• When in doubt, ask a Cast Member — they often know about quiet schedule changes before they’re updated on the public site.

While a delayed opening can be inconvenient, today’s change was part of a well-orchestrated event that brought a unique kind of Disney magic to the resort. With thousands of costumed runners dashing through the parks, Halloween spirit in full force, and rare medals waiting at the finish line, the runDisney Halloween Half Marathon Weekend continues to grow as a signature fall event at Disneyland Resort.

Still, for day guests — especially those not in the know — a later opening and tighter park hours serve as a reminder that checking schedules and planning ahead is more important than ever, particularly during seasonal events.

After all, Disney may be the Happiest Place on Earth, but even the happiest place needs a few extra minutes to clean up after Maleficent curses the finish line.