If there’s one thing Rio de Janeiro has in abundance , it’s iconic buildings to visit and breathtaking natural landscapes. After all, it’s no wonder we boast the title of “Marvelous City.” And, in the midst of this postcard-perfect setting, there’s a special place that seems to have landed straight from the future: the Museum of Tomorrow.
Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this colossal structure—inspired by the bromeliads of Rio’s Botanical Garden — is a true symbol of modernity, sustainability, and renewal. In fact, these unique characteristics make it one of the most visited museums in all of Brazil, a space that invites us to reflect on climate change and humanity’s next steps.
And to complete this introspective atmosphere, the immense reflecting pools facing Guanabara Bay transform the surroundings into one of the best spots for a stroll in Praça Mauá— and in the entire city. But do you want to know something interesting? For just two days at the end of July, this symbol of the Porto Maravilha region’s revitalization prepares to merge with a millennia-old tradition inspired by Thailand, transforming into a scene straight out of a Disney movie.
Water Lantern Festival Rio de Janeiro – Museu do Amanhã
25 July 2026 15:00 + more dates
A sea of lights of wishes
If you dream of experiencing a cartoon come to life, now is your chance. On July 25 and 26, you’ll have the chance to be enchanted by a scene straight out of the movie “Tangled” at the Water Lantern Festival in Rio de Janeiro. After its success in New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto, this event is coming to the Museum of Tomorrow.
Even if you haven’t seen the Disney movie, try this exercise in imagination. Close your eyes and imagine thousands of floating lanterns lighting upthe night. Now, picture this magic reflected in the Museum of Tomorrow’s reflecting pools against the backdrop of a Rio sunset, as you let your deepest wishes and reflections drift away on the water.
The legend comes to life
Did you know that one of the secrets to the Water Lantern Festival’s success is that it brings a fascinating legend to life? That’s right—you read that correctly. The event is heavily inspired by Yipeng, the traditional Thai celebration where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky in honor of Buddha and the celestial deities, as well as by Krathong, during which people release floating lights onto the water.
In fact, did you know there’s a legend that says if two people’s lanterns float together without separating, they’re destined to be in love forever? So, if you take your significant other to the festival and that happens, get ready to walk down the aisle. But this is an event for everyone: families, friends, and even those who want to go alone. It’s the perfect setting for an act of healing and reflection— or simply of gratitude—letting go of the past to embrace a brighter phase of life.
Thinking About “Tomorrow”
Releasing thousands of objects into the water may seem like a real ecological nightmare, but don’t worry—the Water Lantern Festival was designed to be completely sustainable and environmentally friendly. Thus , the Museum of Tomorrow’s mission aligns with that of the event: to look toward the future.
While the Museum of Tomorrow invests in renewable infrastructure such as solar panels, the Water Lantern Festival Rio de Janeiro offers a special kit with your tickets that includes eco-friendly lanterns made from biodegradable materials, a reusable LED candle , and markers so you can personalize your message.
Once you’ve released all your wishes and thoughts into the water and the event is over, you can head home without a care in the world. That’s because a specialized team springs into action at that very moment to collect all the lanterns, ensuring the area is left clean. At the end of the day, today and tomorrow go hand in hand.
Useful Information
📍 Where: Praça Mauá, 1 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro
📆 When: July 25 and 26, 2026
🕰️ Time: The festival begins at 3:00 p.m., and the lanterns will be released between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets: on sale at Fever
