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Largest floating Christmas tree, according to Guinness

Fireworks above floating Christmas tree as it is lit for holidays in Lagoa Lake, Rio de Janeiro
Fireworks above floating Christmas tree as it is lit for holidays in Lagoa Lake, Rio de Janeiro
Credits: 
(AP Photo/Felipe Dana)

Crowds of more than 100,000 made their way to Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon in Rio de Janeiro Saturday to celebrate the lighting of the world's largest floating Christmas tree.  The 14th annual event was marked with a spectacular fireworks show.  This year's theme is 'the joyous uniting of our best wishes.'

The tree stands 28 stories tall and sparkles with a light show containing 11 sequential patterns of 2.9 million mini bulbs, more than 82 miles of lights and 1,600 strobe lights.  In order to help reduce CO2 emissions, it is powered by 7 biodiesel generators.  The massive tree is constructed out of 530 tons of steel sitting on 11 pontoons.

This is the third most popular event in the Brazilian city, after Carnival and New Year's Eve.  The tree will be on display until January 6, Three Kings Day, and be viewed by more than one million people.

For more info:  Guinness World Records

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Slideshow: World's largest floating Christmas tree in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

By

Long Island International Travel Examiner

Nance Carter is a freelance travel writer born with no sense of direction. However, that hasn't stopped her from traveling the world. Always...

Comments

  • Charles Higgins, Las Vegas Examiner 2 years ago
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    Excellent slideshow!

    Cheers..

  • Carol Hilker 2 years ago
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    Great slide-show and great article!

  • Billie 2 years ago
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    Never heard of a floating Christmas tree. What is it made of and what is it floating on>

  • nance 2 years ago
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    billie, i have added that information to the article. see above.

  • Ronna DeLoe - New England Landmarks Travel Examine 2 years ago
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    That's as unusual as the lobster trap Christmas tree I wrote about in my article. Good job.

  • Jeff Titelius 2 years ago
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    Amazing!! I would love to see this in person. Not so sure I love the fireworks but the tree and the colors are dazzling.....Thanks for sharing the customs of faraway lands with us!

  • Joel Siegfried - San Diego Airport Examiner 2 years ago
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    Amazing images. They really know how to celebrate. Great story!

  • Pauline 2 years ago
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    Pretty spectacular photos. It is the largest floating tree...how many are there?

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