Rio de Janeiro’s Iconic Floating Christmas Tree Returns in 2025 to Light Up the City with Unforgettable Holiday Magic and Spectacular Festivities: Know More About it

Published on December 4, 2025

Rio de Janeiro is a city renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class events. Among its many festive traditions, one of the most anticipated celebrations every December is the spectacular floating Christmas tree at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. This Christmas tree, a symbol of Rio’s holiday spirit, is not just any regular tree – it’s an awe-inspiring display of lights, music, and joy that captivates both locals and tourists alike. In 2025, after a few years of absence, the Lagoa Christmas Tree will make its triumphant return, bringing with it a renewed sense of magic and holiday cheer.

The Magical Beginning of the Lagoa Christmas Tree

The story of the Lagoa Christmas Tree begins in 1996, when it was first set up on the serene waters of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. What started as a simple idea to bring festive cheer to the city quickly turned into an iconic annual tradition. Over the years, the floating Christmas tree became synonymous with Rio’s holiday season, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

The tree’s design is truly remarkable. Constructed on floating platforms, it rises to an incredible height of 85 metres – about the same height as a 28-storey building. It is adorned with millions of LED lights, making it visible from almost every corner of Rio, especially from the famous Sugarloaf Mountain and the surrounding areas. The tree’s grandeur has made it a major tourist attraction, offering a stunning contrast against the backdrop of Rio’s mountains and skyline.

However, as with many large-scale events, the tree’s future was not always guaranteed. Despite its popularity, sponsorship and funding challenges led to periods when the tree was absent from the city’s landscape. Yet, every time it returned, it brought back a sense of wonder and anticipation among Rio’s residents and visitors.

The 2025 Return: A New Chapter for Rio’s Christmas Tree

After a long break of several years, the Lagoa Christmas Tree is set to make its much-awaited return in December 2025. The tree’s comeback is not just a revival of a festive tradition, but also a symbol of resilience and renewal for the city. The tree, though slightly smaller than its previous versions (standing at 60 metres in height), will still be an impressive sight and continue to light up the skies of Rio de Janeiro.

This year, the tree is expected to feature a spectacular array of modern LED lights and a captivating light show that will enchant viewers throughout the holiday season. The tree lighting ceremony will take place on December 6, 2025, marking the start of the festive season in Rio. The inaugural event will feature live performances, music, and festivities, creating an atmosphere of celebration that will last throughout the month of December.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the Lagoa Christmas Tree’s return is its public accessibility. The tree will be visible from many vantage points around the lagoon, with the lights shining brightly from 6:00 PM until late at night, making it the perfect destination for families, tourists, and locals alike. The tree will remain lit every night, and on weekends, the light show will continue until 1:00 AM.

A Landmark of Rio’s Christmas Traditions

The floating Christmas tree is more than just a holiday decoration – it has become a beloved symbol of Rio de Janeiro’s Christmas celebrations. For many, the sight of the glowing tree has come to signify the start of the festive season. Families, friends, and visitors from around the world gather around the lagoon to admire the beautiful lights, take pictures, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that fills the area.

The Lagoa Christmas Tree is often accompanied by festive events throughout the city. As Rio lights up for the holiday season, neighbourhoods, shopping malls, and public spaces also get their own share of Christmas decorations. Streets are lined with twinkling lights, and local markets are brimming with holiday cheer, offering everything from handmade gifts to delicious seasonal treats. The entire city is alive with a sense of celebration, and the Lagoa Christmas Tree is at the heart of it all.

The Economic and Social Impact of the Tree

The Lagoa Christmas Tree is not only a visual spectacle but also a significant contributor to Rio de Janeiro’s economy during the holiday season. The event attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world, bringing a boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. Many visitors plan their trips to Rio specifically around the Christmas tree lighting, eager to experience this unique tradition.

The economic impact extends beyond tourism. Local artisans, food vendors, and small businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic in the area surrounding the tree. The festive atmosphere also provides an opportunity for Rio’s cultural scene to shine, with concerts, performances, and events taking place throughout the holiday season. The return of the tree is expected to generate significant economic activity, giving Rio a much-needed boost after a challenging few years.

Socially, the floating Christmas tree fosters a sense of community and togetherness. It brings people of all ages and backgrounds together in a shared celebration of Christmas and the spirit of the holiday season. Whether it’s families enjoying an evening out, friends gathering for a festive outing, or tourists marvelling at the breathtaking display, the tree creates a space for people to connect and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Revival of a Rio Tradition: What to Expect

With the Lagoa Christmas Tree returning in 2025, there are high expectations for this year’s celebrations. While the tree may be slightly smaller than previous versions, it will still be an impressive sight that will draw crowds from all corners of the city. The lighting ceremony on December 6th will mark the beginning of what promises to be a month filled with joy, music, and holiday cheer.

In addition to the tree lighting, there will be live performances, Christmas concerts, and special events that will enhance the festive atmosphere in and around the lagoon. The event will be a celebration of Rio’s vibrant culture, with local musicians, dancers, and performers showcasing their talents for the public. The festival will be a testament to the resilience of Rio’s cultural scene, bringing people together to celebrate the season.

For visitors and residents alike, the Lagoa Christmas Tree will be a must-see attraction. The public lighting schedule, with the tree shining brightly from 6:00 PM each evening, will provide ample opportunity for people to visit the site and experience the magic of Rio’s Christmas festivities. The tree will continue to be a symbol of hope, unity, and holiday spirit, welcoming everyone to Rio for a truly unforgettable celebration.

The Return of Rio’s Christmas Tree: A Symbol of Renewal and Joy

The Lagoa Christmas Tree is more than just a decoration – it’s a symbol of the spirit of Rio de Janeiro itself. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the city’s holiday traditions, drawing people together to celebrate the season with love, joy, and wonder. The return of the tree in 2025 is not only a revival of a beloved tradition but also a symbol of hope and renewal for Rio.

In a time when many events have been disrupted by challenges such as the pandemic, the revival of the Lagoa Christmas Tree offers a sense of normalcy and continuity. It reminds us of the power of community, culture, and tradition to bring people together, no matter what the world throws at us. As Rio de Janeiro welcomes back its iconic floating Christmas tree, it is a reminder of the joy and magic that can be found in even the smallest moments of celebration.

For those who have never experienced the Lagoa Christmas Tree, this year’s return is the perfect opportunity to witness one of the most magical and awe-inspiring holiday displays in the world. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the tree is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed sense of holiday spirit. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this incredible celebration – Rio de Janeiro’s Christmas season is back, and it’s brighter than ever before.

The Lagoa Christmas Tree is more than just a holiday decoration. It’s a symbol of Rio de Janeiro’s festive spirit, a cultural landmark, and a beloved tradition that draws people from all over the world. As it returns in 2025, it promises to light up the city once again, offering a breathtaking spectacle that will capture the hearts of all who see it. Whether you’re visiting Rio for the first time or you’re a lifelong resident, this year’s Christmas tree lighting is an event you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an unforgettable holiday season in Rio de Janeiro.