Hi Alison,
Welcome to planDisney! I love that you have a dream to capture a
Disney PhotoPass photo with Rapunzel's lantern. I've had the pleasure of posing with it on two separate occasions and looking back on the beautiful photos reminds me of the special memories made both times.
It sounds like you might be planning a
Magic Kingdom Park visit on a day that
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is scheduled. On those dates, guests without a party ticket will be escorted from the park when it closes at 6 p.m. I know this photo is important to you so I double-checked the
My Disney Experience App to confirm what time the magical photo opportunity becomes available. Unfortunately, the timing only states "after sunset" so I can't give you a concrete answer on whether you'll be able to pose before departing for the day.
I did a little digging and it looks like sunset is approximately 5:32 p.m. on your arrival date. In that case, you
may get lucky and be able to hop in line near the Tangled restrooms in Fantasyland before exiting the park for the day. My pal
Elaine answered a similar question for another guest and was able to find approximate times in the app. Based on when she answered that question sunset was about 10 min prior to the posted times she mentioned. You can do the same on your visit or ask a Cast Member for more specific timing details. Keep in mind that photos like these are always weather-dependent and availability is subject to change. I've visited well after sunset on other occasions and rainy weather canceled my plans for seeing the floating lantern gleam that day.
If this photo is important I'd recommend adjusting your itinerary and visiting Magic Kingdom Park on a non-party day. That way you'll have more time for a photo opportunity once the sun goes down. If you aren't able to modify your plans don't let that spoil your fun. Make plans to stop by
Princess Fairytale Hall and see whether Rapunzel is visiting that day. The last time I visited she was greeting guests alongside Princess Tiana and we had a really fun and magical interaction. You can also inquire about Magic Shots with Pascal in that area as well. He always makes a fun addition to our family photos.
I hope this was helpful Alison. If we can answer any additional questions please don't hesitate to come back and see us again. Now go, live your dream!
Magic and memories,
Amy