This week at Walt Disney World, Disney's Hollywood Studios changes its hours, a new refurbishment is announced, plus a subscription-based annual upcharge is introduced! 

Outside Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort announces musicians for its annual Mardi Gras festival plus medals for the inaugural Character Race are unveiled! 

1. MuppetVision 3D sets refurbishment date

In addition to all the other refurbishments happening now that Walt Disney World's slow season is here, it was confirmed this week that MuppetVision 3D will be closed from January 26 through to February 8, with a planned reopening to guests on February 9 2020. During this refurbishment the Grand Arts theater that houses this show will be getting new seats and curtains.

2. Blizzard Beach set to reopen from refurbishment later this month

And speaking of refurbishments, though Blizzard Beach was originally scheduled to reopen to guests on January 5, it looks like this park's reopening has now been pushed back further to January 20 2020. 

3. Disney announces Club runDisney upcharge subscription

Disney has announced a new subscription upcharge for guests who participate in runDisney events throughout the year. This new service has several levels, which include the following benefits:

Silver ($265) : This membership includes an exclusive jacket, access to the lowest race registration pricing all year, the ability to participate in a new Virtual 10K in Fall 2020 that is exclusively for Club runDisney members, and special Club runDisney designation on race bibs during on-site events. 

Gold ($479): Includes everything at the Silver tier as well as early registration access with a guaranteed spot in the half marathon or marathon distance each race weekend.

Platinum ($798): Includes everything at the Gold level as well as early registration with a guaranteed spot in one distance each race weekend; upgraded corral placement; and an exclusive Expo experience with early admittance to the runDisney Merchandise Shop, a special character meet and greet and access to a Club runDisney Lounge with expedited race packet pick-up.

 Club runDisney memberships will go on sale on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 10:00 AM. 

4. Disney's Hollywood Studios changes schedule 

In an effort to deal with the overwhelming popularity of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Disney's Hollywood Studios has cancelled morning Extra Magic Hours on March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 and replaced them with evening Extra Magic Hours. 

In addition, from now through Thursday, January 23, the park will open at 7:00 AM daily (it was originally scheduled to open at 8:00 AM) as crowds continue to arrive early to experience this attraction.