Sustainable Ocean Festivals

Rio de Janeiro is hosting a series of large-scale celebrations honoring Iemanjá, the Queen of the Sea, with a new focus on environmental responsibility and ethical practices. Centered on February 2—aligning with the Catholic observance of Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes—the tradition has been officially recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and added to the city’s cultural calendar, but many expressed concerns about the waste generated by the festival. Events are running across 25 beaches statewide from late January through early March, with Arpoador serving as a key gathering point.

Organized by cultural leaders Marcos André and Leonardo Mattos de Xangô, all offerings are made from biodegradable materials, including flowers, herbs, food, and prayer baskets, designed to honor tradition while minimizing environmental impact.

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