The Lagoa tree returns to light up the end of the year in Rio

After a five-year absence from the city’s Christmas program, it returns to its place in the waters of the lake on December 6th, where it will remain until January 6th, 2026. The return of the event brings new features that reflect the demands of contemporary society, such as innovation in sustainability. All the energy that lights the tree will be provided by a generator equipped with R-diesel, developed by Petrobrás with a renewable content of 10%. This renewable segment has an 87% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The fuel also contains a mandatory 15% biodiesel content and uses raw materials of renewable origin, such as vegetable oils or animal fats in its composition.

The company’s support for the Rio Tree appeals to Petrobras’ fundamental aspirations, such as the premise that it must meet the desires of society, remain in full production and work to build the future.

— In the first 72 years, Petrobras resolutely met society’s desires, looked into energy security, and made Brazil self-sufficient in terms of oil and gas, with oil becoming Brazil’s first export product. When we look to the future, we see another demand from society. A society that wants to be rich and enjoy luxury, but on a clean planet. So, we include emissions, new fuels, and energy transition. The lighting of the diesel Christmas tree represents just that – commented Magda Champriard, President of Petrobras, during a press conference presenting the project.

In addition to the sustainable brand, this year the Rio Tree brings a celebration of Brazilian diversity, in honor of the people of Rio. The structure is 60 meters high, with 27 stars representing each state in Brazil, as well as a ritual lighting of lights that will celebrate the month-long season in which the tree will be active.

– The lights will fill out a summon, and anticipate the pre-lighting. At a certain moment they point to Christ the Redeemer, who will also be dark. When these lights touch the memorial, it lights up and the tree also lights up. And the person who will activate this ritual daily will be an honored carioca, representative of a sector of our society, from workers to figures of science and Rio culture – details Doda Magalhães, CEO of Dream Factory, adding that figures such as dancers Carlinhos de Jesus and Ana Botafogo have already confirmed their presence.

Backstage partner Nelson Drucker, who has been responsible for assembling the tree since its first edition 29 years ago, has been celebrating the success of the event since its debut in 1996.

– We celebrate the twenty-third tree in amazing numbers. They have been shown in over 120 countries, marketing Rio as an amazing tourist destination, and boosting our economy. Our duty as producers is to present events that showcase our city. He stressed that this event is the desire of Rio de Janeiro and the whole world.

In its last edition, in 2019, the inauguration of the Rio Tree brought together about 200,000 people. A study by the Getúlio Vargas Foundation estimated the generation of more than 4,000 temporary jobs, 56% of them direct, and an economic impact of more than R$200 million for the state. This year’s edition repeats the success.

—We have more than 1,200 direct recruitment professionals. If we calculate the indirect costs, the number exceeds ten thousand. Without them, we would not have been able to do it – noted Roberta Kilab, Partner at Backstage.

Decorator Orleans de Sá was first responsible for creating the project and directing the construction of the structure.

– It is our greatest work when it comes to scenography. It’s a ridiculous pleasure to do this. We had a month and a half to do everything, and in one month it was ready. He said it was a tree that spoke of Brazil and the union of our states.

The event’s opening ceremony will include a performance by the Petrobras Symphony Orchestra, the Bois de Parintins – Caprichoso and Garantido – and large screens located in Parque dos Patins and Parque do Cantagalo, as well as a tribute to Christ the Redeemer.

The areas around the lake will also be full of sights during days when the tree is active. Kantagallo Park will feature Santa Claus’s House, a children’s attraction, which will be open Saturday and Sunday, from 5pm to 10pm, as well as free pedal boat rides. The lake will feature a Christmas fair, featuring exhibitors covering fashion, decor, crafts and luxury, and a food court with food trucks.

The public will also be able to enjoy a music program on Saturday and Sunday, with attractions such as singer Diogo Nogueira, Focus Dance company and group Raiz do Sana.

-It’s a new format. “We have reached 23 editions more than we have activated,” said Duda Magalhães.

Eduardo Cavaliere, Vice Mayor of Rio, celebrated the event and praised the potential of Rio and Brazil:

– All we, Rio de Janeiro and Brazilians need, is to fill our chests and look forward. This team that prepared the project is made up of people who think big and know that the place to do big things in Brazil is Rio de Janeiro. We are a city of energy, oil, gas, petroleum and Petrobras, companies that make us very proud.

Father Omar, rector of the Temple of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro and parish priest of the Church of São José in Lagoa, celebrated the return of the tree and announced an action in conjunction with the event:

-The São José Church will also move. We will provide a solidarity space in our nativity scene, so that residents can give gifts to those helped by social actions. We are happy to see that Lagoa is a place for all Brazilians and cariocas.