Epcot Opens Slightly Later On This Sunday in Mid-April 2026

Last UpdatedApril 22, 2026

If you’re visiting Walt Disney World next month, you’ll want to be aware that Epcot is scheduled to open later than usual on Sunday, April 19th. Epcot will open at 10:00 a.m. due to the runDisney Springtime Surprise Ten-Miler that’s held earlier the same morning. The park will open at 9:30 a.m. for guests who are eligible for the early entry period.

This later opening is typical for runDisney race weekends. Most races start and finish on the far end of Epcot’s parking lot. If you’re driving in the area this weekend, be aware of potential road closures on race morning. Here is the map with road closures and times for the Springtime Surprise Ten-Miler, which is held on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

Here are the details for the Springtime Surprise 10-Mile Race

Sunday, April 19th – Race Start/Finish: EPCOT Parking Lot
2:30 a.m. Event Open
5:00 a.m. Official Race Start
9:15 a.m. Estimated Final Finisher
10:00 a.m. Event Close

Those visiting Walt Disney World on this particular Sunday can be assured that regular Disney transportation will still be provided from the resorts to the parks. So if you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you shouldn’t have any issues using Disney transportation, other than the later start at Epcot.

If you’re an early riser, this Sunday might be better suited for visiting another park or planning an afternoon arrival at Epcot. With the late start and road closures, expect more traffic near the park’s entrance until about lunchtime or 1:00 p.m. If we’re driving to Epcot on a race date, we always wait for things to settle down. Long traffic lines are common as guests try to park at Epcot.

Of course, this is not the first time Epcot has opened later for a race. You may remember that Epcot opened later for the 2026 WDW Marathon Weekend back in January. Then, last month, the park opened later for the 2026 Princess Half-Marathon.

For more about what’s going on this month, see our guide to visiting Disney World in April. It offers a week-by-week breakdown with specific dates you’ll want to know before your visit. Check back with Resorts Gal soon for the latest Disney news, planning, and reviews.

In the Comments

Did you find this information helpful? Will you avoid this later opening at Epcot on the day of the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler? Let us know in the comments below.