5. The Walt Disney World Marathon

Image: Disney

Running a marathon requires two things: the first is plenty of preparation and exercise to prepare one's body for the grueling journey. The second is the mental strength to achieve something so difficult, and to persevere through the pain and discomfort that comes from running such a great distance.

Owing to that strength, both physical and mental, runners tend to be a peaceful and joyous breed, and when Walt Disney World is inundated with runners from all over the world during the annual Marathon, that peaceful and joyous attitude pervades every square inch of the resort.

Watching someone finish a marathon is a powerful experience, and it's great to be there to see it happen. But just as powerful is seeing the racers wear their medals around the resort following the race, and to see how special a moment it is when someone gives them a high five or a congratulatory hand shake. While the Marathon lacks the glamor and flair of the Food and Wine Festival, its celebration of the power of humanity gives it a specialness that cannot be overlooked. If you admire athleticism and what it takes to achieve such a difficult goal as running a marathon, the Walt Disney World Marathon is a must-see event.

6. The 24-Hour Event 

Image: Disney

There is, of course, another kind of marathon one can perform at the Disney parks. This marathon, however, is not quite the same show of mental and physical determination, but rather, a pure unadulterated love of Disney.

In a new tradition, Disney's Magic Kingdom has, once a year, opened its doors for a continuous 24 hours. And, naturally, some people try to stay the entire time. Godspeed to those individuals.

For most, however, the 24-Hour Event feels much more like the world's greatest slumber party. Guests come decked out in their finest pajamas, people find places to spread out and relax throughout the day, and you haven't lived until you've ridden the Haunted Mansion in the wee hours of the morning with a few hundred of your newest friends.

There's no rule that says you have to stay in the park continuously for 24 hours – that would be absurd. But, there's no reason you can't try, at least. That excitement electrifies the park, making it an experience you've got to try.

In 2014, Disneyland joined the party and had their own 24-Hour Event alongside the one at WDW.

7. Dapper Day (Feb. 28-Mar. 1) 

Disneyland has been open since 1955. Most people who are alive today have never known a world without Disneyland. It is an institution in Southern California, and has influenced a generation of artists and creative minds.

Part of what makes Disneyland so special is this history, and determined to honor that history, a group of Disneyland fans started what has become a remarkable annual tradition: Dapper Day. The concept is simple: on a special day or two each year, guests are encouraged to dress up in fancy vintage garb and enjoy the parks as they may. The resulting collage of classic fashion transforms Disneyland into the timeless park of old.

Something just feels right about seeing Jet Age fashions strolling along through Tomorrowland or Fantasyland. It looks like a still photograph come to life, or a piece of Disney concept art made real. It's the final bit of theming that makes the park feel truly vibrant.

Disneyland is iconic, and to see the park as others might have seen it in the 50s and 60s is a special experience, and something a Disney fan of any kind would feel lucky to see. At any moment, it feels like Walt himself might duck out from around a corner and say hello. But hey, it's Disney magic. You never know: he just might.